HIV has spread worldwide, affecting millions of people globally. Providing knowledge, counseling, and effective treatment is crucial in controlling the disease and reducing the risk of transmission. The following article aims to clarify HIV and its signs of HIV after 3 months!
What is HIV?
HIV is a virus that causes AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), a condition associated with the human immune system’s decline.
HIV attacks and damages B-lymphocyte cells, an essential part of the immune system, leading to a weakened immune capacity. When the immune system is compromised, the body becomes susceptible to infections and other secondary diseases, struggling to cope with common illnesses.
HIV is a global concern
How does HIV spread?
HIV transmission occurs primarily through contact with the virus. Here are the main transmission routes:
1. Unprotected sexual intercourse
Unprotected sexual intercourse with an HIV-infected person is one of the most common ways this virus is transmitted. HIV can be transmitted through contact with vaginal fluids, semen, breast milk, and cervical mucus from an HIV-infected person. Using protection such as condoms can reduce the risk of HIV transmission during sexual intercourse.
Unsafe sex is a leading cause of HIV transmission.
2. Sharing needles or injection equipment
HIV transmission can occur when individuals share needles or injection equipment containing HIV-infected blood. This often happens during drug use through injection or in unsafe medical settings.
3. Mother-to-child transmission
HIV-infected mothers can transmit the virus to their baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or through breastfeeding. However, with the use of medication and prevention measures, the risk of transmission from mother to child can be significantly reduced.
4. Exposure to HIV-infected blood
Contact with HIV-infected blood, such as through wounds on the skin or exposure to blood in unsafe healthcare environments, can lead to HIV transmission.
5. Others
While the primary modes of HIV transmission involve contact with blood, vaginal fluids, breast milk, and cervical mucus, there are rare cases of transmission through other means, such as oral contact or endocrine disorders. However, these cases are very rare and not common transmission routes.
Signs of HIV infection after 3 months
What are the signs of HIV after 3 months? This is a common question for those learning about HIV. HIV symptoms may appear around 2-4 weeks after exposure to the virus, but some individuals may not exhibit symptoms during this stage. Here are some signs and symptoms that some people may experience approximately 3 months after exposure to HIV:
1. Fever and cold-like symptoms
Some people may experience fever, headaches, and cold-like symptoms, similar to the signs of a cold or flu. These are common symptoms after contracting HIV.
2. Swollen and sore throat
Swollen and sore throat may appear, causing difficulty in swallowing.
3. Red rash on the skin – signs of HIV after 3 months
A red rash may appear on the skin, often an itchy rash that can lead to insomnia.
4. Fatigue and weakness
Unexplained fatigue may occur.
5. Swelling of lymph nodes
Lymph nodes under the neck, armpits, and abdominal area may swell and become painful.
6. Diarrhea and nausea – signs of HIV after 3 months
Digestive issues, including diarrhea and nausea, may occur after HIV infection.
7. Weight changes and unexplained weight loss
Sudden weight loss or unexplained weight gain. Many people consider this a normal occurrence; however, it should not be ignored.
Note that these signs are not conclusive evidence of HIV infection, as they can also be symptoms of other illnesses. It is crucial not to self-diagnose based on symptoms but to undergo HIV testing for an accurate diagnosis. After exposure to the risk of HIV transmission, it is essential to undergo regular HIV testing to monitor one’s health status and plan for treatment if necessary.
What to do if you suspect HIV infection?
If you suspect or confirm HIV infection, there are crucial steps to take:
Undergo accurate HIV testing
Firstly, undergo HIV testing to determine your status accurately. This test will confirm whether you are infected with HIV and determine the level of infection in your body. These tests are usually available at healthcare centers, community health facilities, or women’s and sexual health clinics.
Testing should be done immediately upon experiencing any suspicious symptoms of HIV infection
Seek counseling and support
After receiving test results, counseling and support are essential. Healthcare professionals can provide information on the disease and its treatment, helping you plan disease management. Community support organizations and groups can offer mental and financial support.
Commence HIV treatment
If the test confirms HIV infection, the sooner the treatment begins, the better. Discuss with your doctor the appropriate HIV treatment for you. In most cases, treatment with antiretroviral therapy (ART) can control the virus’s growth and maintain your body’s immunity.
Follow the treatment schedule
It is crucial to adhere to the HIV treatment schedule and use medications correctly as directed by your doctor. This helps control the virus’s growth and protects your immune system.
Maintain overall health
Ensure you maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and control of other illnesses if present.
Prevent HIV transmission to others
To prevent transmitting HIV to others, use protection during sexual intercourse, avoid sharing needles or injection equipment containing blood, and follow healthcare professional guidance.
Seek mental support
HIV can have severe psychological and emotional impacts. Seek emotional support from family, friends, or community support organizations to cope with this situation.
Remember that HIV is no longer a deadly disease in most cases, thanks to advancements in treatment and disease management. Adhering to the treatment schedule and maintaining immune health is crucial for a healthy life and preventing virus transmission to others. However, if you experience any signs of HIV after 3 months as listed in the article, it is advisable to consult a doctor promptly for specific guidance!”
Kiểm Duyệt Nội Dung
More than 10 years of marketing communications experience in the medical and health field.
Successfully deployed marketing communication activities, content development and social networking channels for hospital partners, clinics, doctors and medical professionals across the country.
More than 6 years of experience in organizing and producing leading prestigious medical programs in Vietnam, in collaboration with Ho Chi Minh City Television (HTV). Typical programs include Nhật Ký Blouse Trắng, Bác Sĩ Nói Gì, Alo Bác Sĩ Nghe, Nhật Ký Hạnh Phúc, Vui Khỏe Cùng Con, Bác Sỹ Mẹ, v.v.
Comprehensive cooperation with hundreds of hospitals and clinics, thousands of doctors and medical experts to join hands in building a medical content and service platform on the Doctor Network application.
