Symptoms of untreated HIV
If someone becomes infected with HIV, he or she may have the following symptoms:
- First weeks: he/she may get symptoms resembling the flu, a rash or swollen lymph nodes.
- Then follows a period without symptoms.
If he or she does not get treated for HIV, then:
- After some time (this can be 2 years or more) he/she may get new complaints and/or various new symptoms.
- HIV attacks the immune system. Without treatment, someone with HIV will become AIDS after several years. The body’s immune system is so weak that the body will be prone to many other infections. These infections may lead to death.
Living with HIV when treated
The sooner a person with HIV is treated, the less serious are the consequences of HIV on his/her health. He/she can lead a normal life and live just as long as someone who does not have HIV.
If someone with HIV is treated, there is almost no risk of infecting other people through unprotected sex.
More information or help needed?
HIV treatment centres
If you have HIV, it is important that you get treated. A list of HIV treatment centres in the Netherlands.
HIV association
For questions about living with HIV and for contact with other people with HIV.
General practitioner
You can talk to a general practitioner about every intimate topic. If necessary, a general practitioner can refer you to a specialised health professional. Refugees who have been granted (temporary) asylum choose a general practitioner in their municipality. Asylum seekers in an asylum seekers’ centre can consult a general practitioner at the centre.