Rashes. Are they the symptoms of HIV?

Studies show that 90% of the people who have contracted HIV may show some type of skin infection.

HIV has its effect all over the body including the human skin which is the bodies most sensitive organ. It often takes the form of red pigmentation or continual pimples. Small patches similar to tropical fungal skin infections or eczema also grow because of HIV infection. But these same rashes can also be caused by other infections and can be in no way related to HIV.

If the rash is caused by HIV, doctors say that the HIV rashes are not a subject of concern because they are not contagious. These rashes do not rupture like chicken pox. These rashes cannot be apparently seen as they often grow in the shoulder and chest area. Additionally correct treatment can also resolve these HIV rashes.

HIV rashes occur due to two reasons

·             When one have contracted HIV virus, ie as a symptom of the HIV virus and its effect on the immune system.

·             When one consumes medications that are used to treat HIV virus.Ie as a reaction to the HIV treatments which can be extremely hard on the human body.

Of course, not every unusual rash means the presence of HIV. Rashes can also occur in HIV positive people due to drug eruption, Kaposi Sarcoma lesion and Herpes infection. Nevertheless, it is alwayswise to consult the dermatologist. Though people belonging to the high-risk groups like, homosexuals, IDUs, people with multiple sex partners should always visit a doctor whenever they encounter any symptoms of unusual rash on any part of their skin. By testing early for HIV, you carry a much higher chance of surviving the illness.

The features of HIV rash are:

·             Slightly protruded, dark brown, small, and quite similar to maculopapular rashes.

·             They mostly grow in the human trunk, shoulder and occasionally on our limbs.

·             Fever, diarrhea, headaches, muscle pain, enlarged limb nodes and white patches in the mouth may accompany HIV rashes.

·             It lasts for hardly 2 weeks and never appears during the dormant phase of the disease.

·             It may or may not have itching sensations.

·             Acute HIV rashes can lead to peeling of the upper layer of the skin, coupled with sores and blisters.

Relief from HIV rashes

·             Stay away from direct sunlight or extreme heat

·             Similarly, even extreme cold should be avoided.

·             One should not stop, start or pause the intake of rash treatment medication, without the consent of the doctor

·             Over the counter medications like Benadryl, Hydrocortisone cream may be used to curb the itching tendencies.

·             Unprotected sex can lead to contagious rashes. Therefore people belonging to the high risk groups, should practice safe sex.

If you have developed a rash and recently practices unprotected sexual intercourse then you should seek medical advise and take an HIV test as soon as possible.