Dear Rick, I have read a book that said sudden change in vision does occurs in the early stage of HIV infection(the acute viral syndrome). Tell me if this is true because my vision have changed suddenly ather a possible hiv infection two weeks ago. Thank you. Change in vision

Hi. Thank you for your question. Vision problems are not usually seen with Acute Viral Syndrome. However, vision problems can sometimes be a symptom of full-blown AIDS. There is an infection seen in persons with AIDS called Cytomegalovirus (CMV). CMV can cause a problem with the eyes called retinitis. Symptoms of retinitis include blurry vision (often in just one eye, and in just one portion of the visual field), and the increased appearance of "floaters". Without treatment, CMV can ultimately cause blindness. Symptoms due to CMV are not seen with Acute Viral Syndrome. CMV doesn't begin to cause vision problems until there is severe damage to the immune system; it doesn't begin showing these symptoms until literally years after HIV infection.

CMV can only be diagnosed by your doctor. Remember that there are many causes of blurry vision totally unrelated to CMV (the need for eyeglasses is a good example). People with other diseases of the immune system (besides AIDS) can also get symptoms due to CMV. Having blurry vision alone does not indicate HIV infection or AIDS. However, if a person has any types of vision problems, especially if they are ongoing or getting more severe, they should see their doctor, an ophthalmologist or an optometrist.

If you have any further questions, please feel free to call the Centers for Disease Control at 1.800.232.4636 (Nationwide).