Bleedding gums, early symptom of HIV infection?

I had a low risk exposure and after 2 months have bleeding gums, ie in the morning (even before brushing) when i spit i see blood mixed with saliva and after 4 to 5 spits the blood stops. Also i see blood from gums too when i brush





Is this just a bleeding gum problem or a early symptom of HIV infection ( after the low risk exposure I had light fever, headache and yeast like infection on my genitals which is gone now).


I got tested for HIV after 3 weeks of exposure with negative results

Bleedding gums, early symptom of HIV infection?
Be sure to repeat your HIV test. HIV testing generally looks for HIV antibodies in the blood, or saliva or urine. The immune system produces these antibodies to fight HIV. It usually takes two to three months for them to show up. In rare cases, it can take longer than three months. During this "window period" you may not test positive for HIV even if you are infected.
Reply:Bleeding from the gums is mainly due to inadequate plaque removal from the teeth at the gum line. This will lead to a condition called gingivitis, or inflamed gums. If plaque is not removed through regular brushing and dental appointments, it will harden into what is known as tartar. Ultimately, this will lead to increased bleeding and a more advanced form of gum and jawbone disease known as periodontitis.





Considerations Return to top





It is important to follow the instructions from your dentist in order to maintain healthy gums. Improper brushing and flossing technique may actually irritate or traumatize the gum tissue. If gum bleeding persists, it may be a sign of serious medical disorders such as leukemia, bleeding disorders, platelet disorders, or overmedication with anticoagulants ("blood thinners"), such as Coumadin.





Common Causes Return to top





* Gingivitis from inadequate plaque removal


* Periodontitis (advanced form of gingivitis)


* Anticoagulants such as Coumadin (warfarin) and heparin


* Toothbrush abrasion, improper flossing


* Infection, which can be either tooth or gum-related


* Scurvy (Vitamin C deficiency)


* Vitamin K deficiency


* Hormonal changes during pregnancy


* Chemical irritants such as aspirin


* Leukemia


* Placement of new dentures can lead to denture sores/irritations


* Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura





Home Care Return to top





* Visit the dentist at least once every 6 months for plaque removal. Follow your dentist's home care instructions.


* Brush teeth gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush after every meal. The dentist may recommend rinsing with salt water or hydrogen peroxide and water. Avoid using commercial, alcohol-containing mouthwashes, which aggravate the problem.


* Floss teeth twice a day to keep plaque from building up.


* Eliminate between-meal snacks and reduce carbohydrate intake to help prevent plaque build-up on teeth.


* Use an oral irrigation device on the low setting to massage the gums.


* Maintain a balanced, healthy diet.





Additional tips:





* Avoid the use of tobacco, which aggravates bleeding gums.


* Have poorly fitting dentures adjusted and relined by your dentist if they are causing sore spots in gums.


* Avoid aspirin unless your health care provider has recommended that you take it.


* Control gum bleeding by applying pressure directly on the gums with a gauze pad soaked in ice water.


* If you have been diagnosed with a vitamin deficiency, take recommended vitamin supplements


* If side effects of medication are irritating, ask your doctor to adjust or substitute another medication. Never change your medication without consulting your doctor.





Call your health care provider if Return to top





Consult your health care provider if:





* Your gums continue to bleed even after treatment


* The bleeding is severe or chronic


* Other unexplained symptoms are associated with the bleeding





What to expect at your health care provider's office Return to top





Your dentist will examine your teeth and gums, and ask questions such as:





* Are the gums bleeding a large amount?


* Did the bleeding begin recently?


* Do the gums bleed frequently or only occasionally?


* Have you had gum problems before?


* How often do you brush?


* How often do you floss?


* Do you use a soft or hard bristled toothbrush?


* How vigorously do you brush?


* What other home care aids do you use (toothpicks or other)?


* When was the last time you had your teeth cleaned at the dentist?


* Have you changed your diet?


* Do you eat adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables?


* Do you take supplemental vitamins?


* Do you have a high carbohydrate diet (pasta)?


* What medications do you take? Do you take anticonvulsants, anticoagulants (such as Coumadin, heparin), or aspirin?


* Are you pregnant?


* Have you changed mouthwash or tooth paste recently?


* What other symptoms do you have? (e.g., sore throat )





Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:





* Blood studies such as a CBC or blood differential


* X-rays of the teeth and jawbone

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