for Veterans and the Public
Be aware of possible complications
By weakening your immune system, HIV can leave you vulnerable to certain cancers and infections. These infections are called "opportunistic" because they take the opportunity to attack when your immune system is weak. But the good news is that taking your HIV medications can help prevent these infections.
HIV also is an inflammatory disease that affects many parts of the body, not just the immune system. That means that HIV can affect organs like the brain, kidneys, liver, and heart and may increase the risk of some cancers.
HIV medicines can sometimes have side effects. Sometimes these can raise the risk of heart disease or kidney disease. It is important that you let your providers know if you notice any concerning symptoms. For more information on opportunistic infections and other complications of HIV, see HIV-related conditions.
Know when to call your provider
You don't need to panic every time you have a headache or get a runny nose. But if a symptom is concerning you or is not going away, it is always best to have a provider check it out.
The following symptoms may or may not be serious, but don't wait until your next appointment before calling your provider if you are experiencing them.
Breathing problems:
- persistent cough
- wheezing or noisy breathing
- sharp pain when breathing
- difficulty catching your breath
Skin problems:
- Appearance of brownish, purple or pink blotches on the skin
- New or worsening rash--especially important if you are taking medication
Eye or vision problems:
- blurring, wavy lines, sudden blind spots
- eye pain
- sensitivity to light
Aches and pains:
- numbness, tingling, or pain in hands and feet
- headache, especially when accompanied by a fever
- stiffness in neck
- severe or persistent cough
- persistent cramps
- pain in lower abdomen, often during sex (women in particular)
Other symptoms:
- mental changes--confusion, disorientation, loss of memory or balance
- appearance of swollen lymph nodes (glands), especially when larger on one side of the body
- diarrhea--when severe, accompanied by fever, or lasting more than 3 days
- weight loss
- high or persistent fever
- fatigue
- frequent urination
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