Symptoms of HIV: What to Know and When to Test

HIV symptoms vary from person to person, and many people have no symptoms at all. Early symptoms can look like influenza, COVID-19 or other common illnesses. The only way to know your HIV status is to take an HIV test.

Early HIV Symptoms

Acute HIV infection is the earliest stage. When symptoms occur, they commonly begin about 2 to 4 weeks after infection and may last from a few days to several weeks. Some people experience no noticeable illness.

Possible early symptoms include:

• fever or chills;
• sore throat;
• swollen lymph nodes;
• rash;
• headache;
• muscle or joint aches;
• unusual tiredness;
• night sweats; and
• mouth ulcers, nausea or diarrhoea.

These symptoms are nonspecific and are much more often caused by conditions other than HIV. Testing—not a symptom checklist—is the reliable way to find out.

The Chronic Stage May Have No Symptoms

After the early stage, HIV can enter a chronic stage in which a person may feel healthy and have no symptoms for years. The virus remains active and can still be transmitted if it is not treated. Regular testing is important whenever there has been a possible exposure, even if you feel completely well.

Symptoms of Advanced, Untreated HIV

Without treatment, HIV can gradually weaken the immune system. Advanced symptoms are not unique to HIV and require assessment by a healthcare professional. They may include:

• unexplained weight loss;
• recurrent fever or heavy night sweats;
• persistent or severe tiredness;
• lymph nodes that remain swollen;
• diarrhoea lasting more than a week;
• persistent cough, shortness of breath or recurrent pneumonia;
• oral thrush or sores in the mouth, genital area or anus;
• persistent or unusual skin rashes or lesions; and
• confusion, memory problems or other neurological changes.

Many other illnesses can cause these problems. Seek prompt medical care if symptoms are persistent, severe or worsening. Call emergency services for severe breathing difficulty, chest pain, fainting, confusion or another medical emergency.

When Should You Take an HIV Test?

Consider testing after any possible exposure, including condomless vaginal or anal sex, sharing injecting equipment, or another exposure to blood or sexual fluids. You should also test if a partner has HIV and is not known to have an undetectable viral load, or if you simply want reassurance.

No HIV test detects infection immediately. This is called the window period. The right time to repeat a test depends on the test type and the date of the most recent possible exposure. Learn more in our guide to HIV testing, window periods and results.

What Your Test Result Means

HIV Is Treatable

Today, effective antiretroviral treatment allows people living with HIV to live long, healthy lives. Starting treatment promptly protects the immune system. A person who takes treatment and maintains an undetectable viral load does not transmit HIV to sexual partners.

Trusted Information and Support

• CDC: About HIV
• HIV.gov: Acute and Chronic HIV and AIDS
• World Health Organization: HIV and AIDS
• Malaysian AIDS Council: Testing and Support Locations

This article provides general educational information and was reviewed in September 2026. It does not replace advice, diagnosis or treatment from a qualified healthcare professional.