Learn to Recognize Early HIV Symptoms With Guidance From Doctors in Tampa, FL

Pensive young woman thinking about getting an HIV test

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a highly contagious, lifelong infection that attacks and weakens the immune system, which is the body’s first line of defense against infection and illness. Transmitted through contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person, HIV is easily spread through unprotected sexual activity or shared needles and other drug injection equipment.

Currently, there is no cure for HIV. If left untreated, the infection can progress, damage the immune system, and lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). In the United States, however, most people with HIV do not develop AIDS because effective HIV treatment is available.

The Importance of HIV Testing

An HIV test is the only way to confirm a diagnosis of human immunodeficiency virus. Therefore, it is important to seek prompt testing if appropriate. In a sample of blood or oral fluid, an HIV test can detect specific antibodies (p24) that are produced naturally by the body’s immune system in response to an HIV infection.

South Tampa Immediate Care offers discreet and convenient HIV testing in our comfortable walk-in clinic in Tampa, Florida. Available every day during extended hours, our experienced and compassionate team can also answer your questions and help you explore your HIV prevention options.

What Are the Early Signs of HIV?

Within a few weeks after HIV infection, some people experience flu-like symptoms, such as:

  • Fever
  • Chills
  • Night sweats
  • Muscle aches
  • Fatigue
  • Skin rash
  • Sore throat
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Mouth ulcers

HIV does not always produce warning signs. Some people who are infected look and feel completely healthy and may not experience symptoms for up to 10 years. If early HIV symptoms develop, they are usually nonspecific and go away within a few weeks. Then, the infection may remain asymptomatic unless it progresses into AIDS.

When Should I Be Tested for HIV if I Suspect Exposure?

HIV tests are highly accurate. At South Tampa Immediate Care, we use a fourth-generation HIV test using blood from a vein. This test can detect the p24 antigen as early as 14 days after exposure, but it is not considered to be fully sensitive until 45 days after exposure.

If you are interested in HIV testing, turn to South Tampa Immediate Care. At our judgment-free walk-in clinic in Tampa, FL, you do not need an appointment to see a Board-certified or Board-eligible physician. However, you can check in online if you would like.