3. You’re breaking out in a rash.
Some people who experience HIV symptoms notice a light red rash all over their bodies, including their arms, torso, and legs-although it can appear in just one or two spots.
“It’s a general redness, not discrete red bumps. If you’ve ever had a drug reaction rash, it’s similar to that,” says Horberg.
It usually lasts at least a week, and most patients say it’s not itchy; it’s a reaction to fever along with your body’s natural inflammation response as it fights off infection.
4. Your throat is so sore.
An inflammatory response to a serious viral infection can also cause your throat to become inflamed, making it hard to swallow. But, unlike strep, your doctor won’t spot patches of white, just redness and inflammation like you’d get with a cold.
“Lots of viruses effect your throat,” says Horberg; but if you’re concerned about HIV, it’s best to see a doctor about this one.
