Possible HIV infection

[geemoney]

First of all let me thank you for running such a wonderful and informative site. On November 12th I had unprotected oral sex with a transvestite, whose HIV status was unknown. I had no cuts or sores on my penis. On November 29th I developed flu-like symptoms. Head congestion, headache, stuffy nose, fatigue, slight fever. I started to develop a cough one week after the encounter. Most of the symptoms lasted about a week. But the cough and post nasal drip have lingered. I never developed a rash, but I developed alopecia areata in my beard area, which I think was present before the encounter, if it wasn't, I noticed it a few days afterwards, which seems too short a time span. The fatigue and malaise have lasted also with some muscle weakness. I had a HIV antibody done at 7 weeks, it was negative. But I still feel like something is not quite right with me. I've had pain in my groin, armpits and neck stiffness. I took another HIV antibody test yesterday. I get the results today. I'm a nervous wreck! I can't sleep. It's consumed me. I know that alopecia areata can be a sign of many diseases. If it was present before the encounter, then it could mean that I have something else going on in my body and not HIV. Is it common for mucus build-up or sinus pressure to linger if you've been infected with HIV? I have suffered with my sinuses before. I had sinus surgery about 6 years ago. I have an appointment with an ENT, hopefully he can find out what's going on. Do you think I've acquired HIV? I'm at the 3 month mark and the results come back today.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Did you think I might have changed my mind since yesterday?

[geemoney]

Hello doctor, I received the results from my HIV antibody test yesterday. They came back negative. So can I definitely rule out HIV? I am so relieved. Thanks for your comments.....

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Oral sex is low risk to start, even with an HIV infected partner.  Your symptoms don't particularly suggest HIV, which doesn't typically cause cough and rarely causes congestion, stuffy nose, or sinus problems.  In any case, your negative HIV test at 7 weeks proves unequivocally your symptoms were not due to HIV.  You really didn't need the 3 month test, but you can count on a negative reslt.  I have no opinion about other possible causes for your continuing symptoms, and agree with your plan to see a provider if they concern you.

Good luck--  HHH, MD