I developed swollen lymph nodes under my arms six months after oral sex. Am I at risk of HIV?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I can understand your concern. According to your statement, you have been suffering from swollen glands underneath your arms with rashes. You had oral sexual intercourse six months ago. And you assume there is there may any link between your present sufferings with the previous sexual encounter.

First of all, you should know that sex via the oral route is low risk in case of HIV transmission. The only possibility is if there are any cuts or sores in the mouth, gum disease, sexually transmitted infections in the throat or history of dental surgery, etc., that may increase the risk of HIV transmission. Otherwise, usually, you will not get HIV infection through oral sex.

According to your present clinical features, you may suffer from any STDs (sexually transmitted disease), EBV (Ebstein-Barr virus), hepatitis, and many more. Even enlarged lymph nodes with rashes may indicate any localized minor infection, which will likely resolve on their own with time and rest.

You can undergo investigations like CBC (complete blood count), STDs test, urine test, biopsy or FNAC (fine needle aspiration cytology) from the lymph nodes, etc., will detect the underlying causes for your present sufferings and then treat them accordingly. Biopsy or FNAC from the lymph nodes will confirm the diagnosis of the disease.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is also possible that the rashes and swollen armpits may develop due to extreme heat weather and profuse sweating. Hot and humid weather makes you more vulnerable to develop heat rashes, sunburn, dehydration, heat cramps, and allergy exacerbations, especially if you are engaged in a physical activity outdoor that makes you sweat profusely.

Swollen armpits with rashes may form when your sweat glands of that particular area become clogged. Excretion of sweat can be blocked and tapping perspiration under the skin. As a decreased amount of sweat is excreted in the affected area, it can result in the skin's inflammation and soreness. Bacteria may also affect the swollen area. Such type of swollen area with rashes will disappear on their own over time without any medical treatment.

If you suspect anything else, you can undergo a biopsy or FNAC from that swollen area, which will confirm everything.

I hope this helps.