The Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) attacks the immune system, breaking it down and progressing into Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, or AIDS. While the infection from the virus is still in the early stages, there are various treatment options which can slow down or halt the progression of the disease so that the patient can lead a near to normal life. When the infection surpasses the early treatment stage and becomes AIDS the treatment options are fewer and the chance of having a long life is minimal.

Fortunately, with ongoing efforts in research and treatment development, a possible cure for HIV could be in the future somewhere. For now, however, men who have received the virus must do everything that they can do to fight it. This is why catching those early HIV symptoms in men is so important.

Cold And Flu

The earliest signs of HIV come in the form of the common cold or flu. Usually these include headaches, fatigue, a dry cough, swollen glands, dizziness, and sometimes nausea. Although these are some of the first symptoms to appear, not all HIV patients will feel them until the viral infection has already progressed into AIDS.

Sore and achy muscles, restlessness, fever, and chills are also common. You will find that in most cases the HIV symptoms in men also include blurred or double vision and unexplained weight loss. This can sometimes be misconstrued as something else, such as cancer or an infection of the lungs or another area that might cause similar symptoms.

Understanding HIV In Men

While it is possible for both men and women to contract HIV, it is far more common for men to have the virus. In fact, homosexual and bisexual men make up 66% of those newly infected each year.

The HIV symptoms in men can be very similar to those in women, but men will sometimes get a rash on their genitals, while the rash which forms on women tends to be on the face, neck or torso. Some men also find that rashes appear inside of the mouth as ulcers and sores. This can be quite uncomfortable, and in some cases, painful.

Treatment Options For HIV

There is no known cure for HIV or AIDS at this time, but modern medicine has had many breakthroughs in the treatments available, and receiving a diagnosis is no longer as hopeless as it once was. The virus can continue to pass through certain bodily fluids, such as blood and semen, even after treatment has begun, and will continue to be contagious so long as a cure is unavailable. This means that men who are sexually active must be straightforward with their partners and use protection at all times.

If you have developed or feel that you are beginning to develop any of the symptoms discussed above, you should consult with a doctor as soon as possible. The earlier HIV infection is diagnosed and treated, the greater would be the likelihood of long term survival. Your doctor may ask you to keep a log of symptoms until you understand whether they are caused by HIV or something else.