What Are the Symptoms of HIV In Males? Everything to Know

Medically Reviewed By Michaela Murphy, PA-C

Symptoms of HIV in males can include genital ulcers, swollen lymph nodes, tiredness, skin rash, and headaches. However, these conditions can be controlled with treatment. There were 37,968 new HIV diagnoses in the United States and dependent areas in 2018, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Around 81% Trusted Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Governmental authority Go to source of these cases were in males. 

The data for 2020 is unclear due to COVID-19. However, the CDC reports that males accounted for around 80% Trusted Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Governmental authority Go to source of newly diagnosed HIV cases in that year. 

This article discusses the symptoms and health complications of HIV in males. It also explains treatment options, when to contact a doctor, and more.

Sex and gender exist on a spectrum. This article uses the terms “female” and/or “male” to refer to sex that was assigned at birth. 

Learn more about the difference between sex and gender.

What are the symptoms of HIV in men?

A man is sitting down with his hands in front of him.
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HIV-positive males may experience genital ulcers. A genital ulcer that has been present for 1 month or more Trusted Source PubMed Central Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health Go to source may be a sign of HIV.

Genital ulcers may begin Trusted Source PubMed Central Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health Go to source as a clear fluid-filled sac that ruptures and becomes an ulcer. It can be painless or painful.

Genital ulcers can start small and become larger. You may experience one large lesion or multiple shallow lesions.

If you have a genital ulcer, the lymph nodes in your groin may swell and become tender.

Learn more about the types of genital sores.

Other symptoms

Males and females may notice symptoms of HIV 2–4 weeks Trusted Source PubMed Central Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health Go to source after contracting the virus. However, it could take months for symptoms to appear. In some cases, symptoms are mild and may not be noticeable.

The symptoms for males and females are generally the same and can include:

  • tiredness
  • sore muscles
  • skin rash
  • sore throat
  • headache
  • pain in joints 
  • sweating at night time 
  • diarrhea 
  • swollen lymph nodes 

These could also be symptoms of other health conditions. Still, if your symptoms do not improve, they may indicate HIV infection. 

Learn more about the symptoms of HIV.

What are the complications of HIV in males?

Hypogonadism can often Trusted Source PubMed Central Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health Go to source affect HIV-positive men. Hypogonadism can cause the testes to not make enough testosterone. They may also produce a lower amount of sperm.

Symptoms of hypogonadism may include:

  • loss of libido
  • erectile dysfunction
  • loss of pubic hair
  • memory difficulties
  • tiredness
  • low mood 

Learn about testing your testosterone levels.

Other complications that may affect Trusted Source PubMed Central Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health Go to source males with HIV are erectile dysfunction and ejaculatory disorders. 

Contact your doctor if you have concerns about the possible complications of HIV.

Learn more about common complications of HIV.

What are the treatments for symptoms of HIV in men?

Medications known as antiretroviral therapy (ART) can lower your viral load. ART makes the virus less detectable or undetectable in your blood.

ART boosts your immune system, reducing the likelihood of other illnesses and infections developing. It also reduces the chance of transmitting the virus to others.

Learn about other drugs doctors commonly prescribe for HIV.

What causes HIV?

According to the CDC, most males who contract HIV do so through anal sex and other forms of sexual contact. Males are 13 times more likely Trusted Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Governmental authority Go to source to contract HIV as the receptive partner of anal sex rather than the insertive partner. 

It is also possible for males to contract HIV during vaginal sex with females who have the virus. Blood and vaginal fluids can carry HIV. 

Other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), such as syphilis, can increase the risk of contracting or transmitting HIV.

Genital ulcers are likely Trusted Source PubMed Central Highly respected database from the National Institutes of Health Go to source to cause inflammation and bleeding. This can increase the chance of passing HIV during sex. 

It is also possible to transmit and contract HIV by injecting drugs and sharing needles or syringes.

Learn more about what causes HIV.

When should I see a doctor?

Contact a healthcare professional immediately if you think you have come in contact with HIV. In the first 72 hours following exposure to HIV, healthcare professionals can prescribe postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) medication. The medication can prevent HIV from developing.

If it has been longer than 72 hours since exposure, talk with a doctor as soon as possible for support, diagnosis, and treatment. 

Our HIV appointment guide can help you to prepare for your appointment.

How do doctors diagnose HIV?

Your doctor can diagnose HIV via a blood test. A lab will test your sample or you can use a home-testing kit.

A blood test conducted by healthcare professionals is the most accurate method. You will likely receive an accurate result 1 month after transmission

A doctor may repeat the blood test to confirm the result 1–3 months after coming into contact with HIV. 

Can I prevent HIV?

You can lower your risk of HIV by:

  • using a clean condom or other barrier methods for vaginal, anal, and oral sex
  • using a water-based lubricant and a condom during anal sex
  • covering sores or cuts before sex or avoiding sex until they have healed 
  • not sharing needles and other drug equipment 

Your doctor may prescribe medications to reduce the chances of HIV contraction if you are having sex with an HIV-positive person. 

According to three clinical trials, male circumcision may reduce the risk of males contracting HIV by 50–60% Trusted Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Governmental authority Go to source when having sex with a female partner who has HIV.

Summary 

Symptoms of HIV in males can include genital ulcers, sore muscles, sore throat, diarrhea, and joint pain

Complications of HIV specific to males, such as hypogonadism, may cause a loss in libido, erectile dysfunction, ejaculatory disorders, and swelling in the breast. 

If you come into contact with HIV in the past 72 hours, contact a healthcare professional immediately. They can prescribe medication to prevent HIV. 

Also, people with HIV can manage the condition and live long healthy lives due to advances in medications and quality healthcare.

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Medical Reviewer: Michaela Murphy, PA-C
Last Review Date: 2023 Jan 31
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