Approximately 80% of all HIV diagnoses in the United States involve male patients. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), of the 1.2 million Americans living with HIV, about 912,000 are men. While the initial symptoms of HIV are often similar for both men and women, they can start to differ as the disease progresses.
HIV symptoms can vary greatly between individuals. Some people may not show any symptoms, especially in the early stages of infection.
Both men and women can exhibit general HIV symptoms. However, certain symptoms are more specific to men, such as ulcers on the penis, which are characterized by painful, recurring sores indicative of an HIV infection.
Early Symptoms in Men
- Low sex drive: This condition, known as hypogonadism, occurs when the testicles do not produce sufficient sex hormones like testosterone. Testosterone is essential for male sexual development, and low levels can lead to a reduced libido.
Hypogonadism resulting from HIV infection can include symptoms such as erectile dysfunction, depression, fatigue, impotence, and decreased body hair growth.
- Penis sores: Sores are one of the common signs of HIV and can appear on the penis, mouth, or esophagus, potentially recurring at any time.
- Burning sensation during urination: Pain or a burning feeling during urination is associated with HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases like gonorrhea and chlamydia. This symptom may also indicate prostatitis, or swelling of the prostate.
While certain symptoms are more distinct in men, it is crucial to note that they can also signal other health issues.
HIV Symptoms in Men After 1 Week
In the early stages, men and women typically show similar HIV symptoms. Diagnosing the disease within the first week can be challenging. Experts often recommend waiting for a two-week window period for a more accurate diagnosis. Early HIV symptoms in men after one week may include:
- Headache
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Skin rash
- Fatigue
- Ulcers
- Night sweats
- Swollen lymph glands
- Diarrhea
- Muscle aches
- Joint pain
HIV Symptoms in Men After 1 Year
HIV symptoms in men after a year can become more severe as the immune system weakens and becomes less capable of fighting infections. Symptoms may include:
- Rapid weight loss
- Extreme fatigue
- Prolonged diarrhea
- Penile sores
- Severe fever
- Recurring night sweats
- Memory loss
- Skin blotches
If HIV progresses to AIDS within a year of diagnosis, doctors will likely recommend antiretroviral therapy (ART) to support the immune system. Besides ART, other medications may be necessary to treat opportunistic infections and diseases.