HIV in the Throat: Symptoms, Causes, Complications, and Treatment
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a causative pathogen that can cause various early symptoms, including fever, headaches, and sore throat.
In the throat region, it can cause sores and pain, as it can impact infection-fighting cells and weaken the immune system.
If left untreated, HIV in the throat can also lead to severe complications, including Throat cancer and Oropharyngeal Candidiasis.
This comprehensive article will elaborate on the symptoms of HIV in the throat and how long the symptoms last.
Also, it will elaborate on the complications associated with them and various treatment options for faster recovery.
HIV sore in the throat
As per the Mayo Clinic, after primary HIV infection, within two to four weeks after the virus enters the body, a person may show flu-like symptoms.
The symptoms include fever, headache, sore throat, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck area.
In the throat region, HIV can cause soreness, lesions, and pain.
These symptoms are signs that the body’s immune system is indicating the presence of a virus in the body and needs medical attention.
Persistent and untreated HIV infection can lead to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS).
How long does an HIV-related sore in the throat last
The symptoms of HIV in the throat usually last for one to two weeks.
However, they may also stay longer, and the timing may vary from person to person.
Though the initial symptoms may disappear within a few weeks, the virus may continue to be active and affect the immune system.
Complications of HIV in the throat
According to NCBI, upto 80% of people with HIV infection develop ENT (ear, nose, and throat) manifestations (ailments).
Some of the common complications associated with HIV are as follows:
Throat cancer due to HIV
As per cancer.org, HIV does not cause cancer directly. However, the weak immune system puts people with HIV at a higher risk of developing cancers.
Various infections can infect the body, such as Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and may lead to complications.
HIV can cause Throat cancer in people over time.
Also, according to NCBI, almost 30% of head and neck cancers and a majority of Oropharyngeal cancer in people with HIV are caused by HPV.
Oropharyngeal Candidiasis
Oropharyngeal Candidiasis, or Oral Thrush, is a fungal infection on the lining of the mouth, tongue, and back of the throat.
The conditions are caused by the species of Candida, especially Candida albicans, that infect and cause lesions on the tongue.
It usually happens when the count of CD4 T-lymphocytes declines to less than 350 CFU per milliliter.
Treatment of HIV in the throat
In order to treat HIV in the throat, people should treat the underlying cause of the condition, i.e., HIV.
Currently, there is no cure for HIV.
However, many treatment options can slow the progression of the condition.
HIV is treated with a combination of effective medications called Antiretroviral Therapy (ART).
These combination pills are effective in slowing the HIV progression and preventing further destruction of the human body cells.
Some of the medications used for HIV treatment are as follows:
- Non-nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NNRTIs)
- Protease Inhibitors (PIs)
- Nucleoside Reverse Transcriptase Inhibitors (NRTIs)
- Attachment inhibitors
- Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors
- Post-attachment inhibitors
Consult a healthcare practitioner and seek medical attention to prevent its progression and avoid severe complications.
Conclusion
Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) in the throat can cause soreness, lesions, and pain.
The symptoms of HIV in the throat, with other early symptoms, are an indication that the body’s immune system is fighting against the bacteria.
These symptoms can last for one or two weeks. However, they may stay for longer and cause complications.
Persistent HIV, without treatment, can increase the risks of Throat cancer and Oropharyngeal Candidiasis.
Thus, it is recommended to consult a healthcare practitioner and seek prompt medical attention and treatment, such as antiretroviral therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HIV-related sore in the throat very painful?
Yes, HIV infection can show some early signs and symptoms, including painful sores in the throat. These symptoms may last for one or two weeks. However, they may persist for longer in some people, making the condition worse. Consult your doctor and seek medical treatment for faster recovery.
How does HIV make your throat feel?
HIV infection can cause sores in the throat and mouth region. These sores are often painful and may cause discomfort in people. Thus, it is necessary to consult a healthcare practitioner about your condition, get a proper diagnosis, and seek medical treatment.
What are the symptoms of HIV in the throat?
The symptoms of HIV may include painful sores in the throat. These symptoms may last for one or two weeks. However, they can stay for longer in some people and make the condition worse. Thus, seeking medical help and treatment is the best way to ensure a faster recovery.
How long does HIV in the throat last?
HIV infection may show early signs of the symptoms, such as painful sores in the throat, after some weeks of getting infection. These symptoms may last for one or two weeks. But in some cases, they can stay for longer and cause discomfort in people.
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