Hollywood actress Elizabeth Taylor famously said once, 'It's bad enough that people are dying of AIDS, but no one should die of ignorance.' Decades after Taylor’s words, the lack of awareness about HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) transmission remains a problem, as seen in the recent case of 10 suspected drug users testing positive in Valanchery, Malappuram. Authorities suspect that the infections spread after the victims used a contaminated syringe during drug use. HIV affects white blood cells and attacks our body's immune system, thereby developing infections and other diseases.
Many conditions can cause symptoms similar to those of HIV, and therefore, a doctor should test and diagnose HIV to rule out other conditions if you suspect a viral infection. According to Medical News Today, fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, chills, rash, muscle aches, and night sweats are some of the common HIV symptoms. 

However, here are some HIV symptoms that are specific to men:
1) Rectum inflammation 
Also known as infectious proctitis, the inflammation of the rectum happens in those who have sex with other males who have HIV. Anal discharge, rectal bleeding, anorectal pain, constipation and continuous urge for bowel movement are some of its symptoms.
2) Penile ulcers
Lesions or open sores on the penis are called penile ulcers. Some people develop it within 2 to 4 weeks of exposure. You might also spot painful herpes virus, syphilis, pus-filled ulcers or other fungal infections as part of it.

3) Erectile dysfunction
Lack of erection and partial erection are prevalent among 86% of people with HIV.
4) Low testosterone levels and prostatitis or swelling of the prostate gland are two of the other male-specific symptoms
Tests required to diagnose HIV
Generally, blood tests are done for HIV diagnosis, and antiretroviral therapy (ART) is used for its treatment. Regardless, your healthcare provider can also ask you to undergo the following tests: 
1) Antibody test - done using test kits
2) Antigen-antibody test - A test to detect infection 18 to 45 days after exposure. 
3) Nucleic acid test - Test for recent exposure (10 to 33 days)

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