Question

Are sore gums a sign of HIV infection?

7 May 2010. Related: All topics, HIV testing, HIV transmission.

I have been having sore gums lately. They are not bleeding but are very inflamed. Is this a sign of early HIV infection after 10 weeks exposure?

Thanks

Answer

Answer: Charlotte Walker

Thank you for your question.

The only way you can know if you have HIV is to go for a test. Bleeding gums do not indicate whether you are in the early stages of HIV infection or not. Fourth generation (antigen+antibody) HIV tests are accurate 3-4 weeks after infection. All tests are free and confidential.

For more information on testing and HIV transmission please follow this link to the i-Base factsheet