HIV & Early Diagnosis: Stages, Symptoms and Testing

Wondering about the early signs of HIV, when to get tested, or how to protect yourself? This blog has all of the answers you need.

Although HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is no longer a death sentence, early detection is critical. The sooner it is recognized, the sooner treatment can begin, resulting in a healthier, longer life. With over 2.4 million people living with HIV in India (according to NACO), awareness and early intervention are critical to halting its silent spread. Many people are unaware that they are infected until the disease has progressed, as early symptoms are generally vague or misdiagnosed as other ailments. In this blog, we’ll break down the stages and symptoms of HIV, when to get tested and what diagnosis tests are available with advanced treatment and medication. Whether you're looking for answers, peace of mind, or guidance on getting tested, this guide is built for you.

What is HIV? In simple terms:

Human immunodeficiency virus is referred to as HIV. HIV damages and infects immune system cells, making it more difficult to fight against other illnesses. HIV can cause acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) if it has significantly compromised your immune system. CD4 cells, a subset of T cells, are impacted by and killed by HIV if left untreated. HIV increases the body's risk of developing a number of illnesses and malignancies over time as it destroys more CD4 cells.

Stages of HIV:

1)    Stage one (Acute HIV infection): The initial stage of HIV infection, known as acute HIV infection, often appears two to four weeks following HIV infection. Some people experience flu-like symptoms during this time, including fever, headache, and rash. HIV rapidly multiplies and spreads throughout the body during the acute stage of infection, targeting and eliminating the immune system's CD4 cells, or CD4 T lymphocytes, which fight infection.

2)    Stage two (Chronic HIV infection): Chronic HIV infection, sometimes referred to as asymptomatic HIV infection or clinical latency, is the second stage of HIV infection. HIV continues to grow in the body throughout this phase, but very slowly. Individuals with a persistent HIV infection may not exhibit any symptoms associated with HIV. Although it may progress more quickly in certain individuals, chronic HIV infection typically progresses to AIDS in ten years or more without ART (Antiretroviral Therapy). For several decades, people on ART (Antiretroviral Therapy) may remain in this stage.

3)    Stage three (AIDS): The last and most serious stage of HIV infection is AIDS, which seriously impairs immunological function. Because of this, the body is unable to combat opportunistic infections, which are also known as conditions that define AIDS. If a person with HIV has a CD4 count below 200 cells/mm3 or has specific opportunistic diseases, they are diagnosed with AIDS. A person with HIV might have a high viral load and spread the virus to others with ease once it reaches the AIDS stage.

HIV Symptoms: From Early Warning Signs to Advanced Stages

1)             Symptoms in Primary/Acute HIV stage:

·       Headache

·       Diarrhea

·       Fever

·       Weight loss

·       Swollen lymph glands (also known as nodes)

·       Cough

·       Rash

·       Sore throats

·       Mouth ulcers

·       Muscle aches and joint pains

2)             Symptoms in Clinical Latent Infection/ Chronic HIV stage:

·       Pneumonia

·       Shingles (also known as herpes zoster)

·       Fever

·       Fatigue

·       Thrush (also known as oral yeast infection)

·       Weight loss

3)             Symptoms in progression to AIDS stage:

·       Ongoing diarrhea

·       Constant fatigue

·       Weakness

·       Rapid weight loss

·       Skin rashes and bumps

·       Swollen lymph glands

·       Constant episodes of fever

·       Sweats

·       Chills

·       Lesions or constant white spots on the tongue or in mouth

How HIV Is Diagnosed: Tests You Need to Know About

At Mahajan Imaging & Labs, HIV testing is conducted using reliable blood-based and other sample types, depending on the patient’s condition and stage of infection. We offer a range of advanced HIV tests tailored to individual diagnostic needs, whether for early detection or ongoing monitoring:

·       HIV Antibody Test (Includes P24 Ag): The P24 antigen, which manifests early in infection, and HIV antibodies are detected by the HIV Antibody Test (Includes P24 Ag). This assists in the early diagnosis of HIV.

·       Rapid HIV Test: A rapid HIV screening test that uses saliva or blood. Results are provided in a matter of minutes, however further testing may be necessary for confirmation.

·       Western Blot Test: HIV-specific proteins can be found using the Western Blot Test, a confirmatory test. This is used to confirm that HIV screening test results are positive.

·       HIV RNA Qualitative Test: Determines whether HIV RNA is present in the blood. Beneficial for early detection prior to the development of antibodies.

·       HIV RNA Quantitative Test: Determines the blood level of HIV RNA. This helps track how well a treatment is working and how the disease is progressing.

·       Immune Deficiency Panel (CD3, CD4, CD8 & HIV RNA Quantitative): The Immune Deficiency Panel (CD3, CD4, CD8, & HIV RNA Quantitative) measures HIV RNA levels and important cell markers to evaluate the health of the immune system. This is utilized to track HIV infection and inform treatment choices.

Leading the Way in HIV Care: Why Mahajan Imaging & Labs Stands Out

At Mahajan Imaging & Labs, we understand that HIV testing and diagnosis is more than just a medical process—it’s a moment that calls for precision, privacy, and compassion. We go beyond standard testing to offer a comprehensive, patient-first approach rooted in technology, accuracy, and human care.

With over 35+ years of diagnostic excellence, we offer:

·       Advanced HIV testing options for every stage of diagnosis

·       Home sample collection across Delhi NCR, focusing on convenience of patients

·       Fast turnaround times with high-accuracy reporting

·       High trained medical professionals

Mahajan Imaging & Labs is dedicated to helping you at every stage—with tact, knowledge, and discretion—whether you're looking for early detection, confirmation testing, or continuous monitoring. You can book your test with us through our website, WhatsApp at +91 88828 97661 or speak directly to our support team at +91 11 4118 3838.

Stay informed. Stay empowered. Stay ahead—with Mahajan Imaging & Labs.

Final Thoughts

Although HIV is no longer a mystery or a stigma, the most effective strategies we still have are quick testing, effective prevention, and early awareness. Knowing when to get tested, being aware of the early warning symptoms, and having access to reliable medical assistance can really make a big difference.

Remember that HIV is treatable and that early intervention saves lives, whether you're starting the diagnosis process or just educating yourself and your loved ones. You're never alone on your journey with Mahajan Imaging & Labs' cutting-edge testing options and professional care.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Are HIV and Aids the same thing?

Ans. No, the virus that impairs immunity is called HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). The advanced stage of HIV infection known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is characterized by a severely compromised immune system, which can result in opportunistic infections and major health consequences.

Q2. Can a pap smear detect HIV?

Ans. No, a Pap smear does not identify HIV; instead, it checks for cervical abnormalities brought on by HPV or other infections. Pap smears, however, aid in monitoring associated difficulties because HIV-positive people are more likely to experience cervical problems.

Q3. How common are false negatives and false positives?

Ans. Although HIV tests are quite accurate, if they are performed too soon (within the window period), false negative results may result. False positives are uncommon, and for a correct diagnosis, confirmation testing such as Western Blot or RNA assays is typically necessary.

Q4. Can HIV live outside the body?

Ans. HIV does not persist outside of the human body for very long. Transmission outside the body is uncommon since it rapidly becomes inactive when exposed to air, temperature changes, or environmental factors.

Q5. Which body fluids transmit HIV?

Ans. HIV can spread through breast milk, semen, vaginal and rectal secretions, and blood. There is not enough HIV in pee, tears, sweat, or saliva to spread the virus.