Hi,I am Dr. Shanthi.E (General & Family Physician). I will be looking into your question and guiding you through the process. Please write your question below.
Are Stiff Neck And Muscle Pain Symptoms Of HIV Infection?
Hi, I had a possible HIV exposure , unprotected insertive vaginal sex 4-5 weeks ago.I saw a doctor and started PEP comprising of Truvada-300 Mg and Tivicay-50 Mg. I was prescribed PEP for 30 days. I have successfully completed the course. During 4 weeks of PEP I did not observe any symptoms except acid/reflux and stiff neck. I am on the first week after PEP completion. I am observing the following symptoms 1.Stiff neck,this got better after seeing a Chiropractor/taking a massage but not fully recovered 2.Right arm muscle pain and spasms.Sore muscles on right upper back 3. Dry mouth which makes me drink water often. 4 Pain in muscles and arm/leg specially right side. 5. Occasional Sneezing My questions are : 1. Are all these signs of seroconversion?I had stiff neck in past but not these severe. 2. I am planning to get 4th generation test done 4 -5 weeks after PEP completion,is this good? I will do additional tests on 3rd month,and 6 months after PEP as well 3. Please advise why the above symptoms are happening I am very worried.
I can understand your concern. You have followed all the correct steps after possible exposure to HIV and the tests that are scheduled for you at 3 months and 6 months are also correct to detect presence of infection in the blood.
I would recommend not to worry. The stiff neck and arm could be due to muscle spasms and dry mouth can be a side effect of the PEP medicines you are taking. Occasional sneezing might be due to allergies. These symptoms are not correct indicators of the HIV infection or AIDS. The blood tests are perfect indicators for the presence of HIV infection or AIDS.
I hope this information helps you. Thank you for choosing HealthcareMagic. Take care.
Best, Dr. Viraj Shah
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Are Stiff Neck And Muscle Pain Symptoms Of HIV Infection?
Hello, I can understand your concern. You have followed all the correct steps after possible exposure to HIV and the tests that are scheduled for you at 3 months and 6 months are also correct to detect presence of infection in the blood. I would recommend not to worry. The stiff neck and arm could be due to muscle spasms and dry mouth can be a side effect of the PEP medicines you are taking. Occasional sneezing might be due to allergies. These symptoms are not correct indicators of the HIV infection or AIDS. The blood tests are perfect indicators for the presence of HIV infection or AIDS. I hope this information helps you. Thank you for choosing HealthcareMagic. Take care. Best, Dr. Viraj Shah