“You want to know your position immediately, as early treatment is best for protecting against long term illness or symptoms,” she claimed.
A few differing types of assessments can be obtained, and every has another window period— some time among possible publicity to HIV and when a check can detect the virus. For those who might have contracted HIV up to now 72 several hours, taking postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) might help reduce its transmission.
When you check good, you usually takes medicine to take care of HIV. Those with HIV who get HIV medication (referred to as antiretroviral therapy or ART) as prescribed and obtain and maintain an undetectable viral load can Dwell prolonged and healthier lives and will not transmit HIV to their HIV-destructive companions by sex.
In the course of this time, the immune process responds by releasing antibodies, which can sometimes be detected with Innovative testing.
HIV attacks the immune system, particularly CD4 cells, which aid the body combat infections. Without the need of treatment, the virus progresses through three levels:
In line with HIV.gov, latency in HIV infection can previous as much as 10 or 15 many years. Which means that the virus is replicating much slowly than just before. But it surely doesn’t imply that get more info HIV is long gone, nor does it mean which the virus can’t be transmitted to Other folks.
This stage can previous for a few years for those who aren't acquiring antiretroviral therapy, also known as ART. A lot of people get much more-significant disease Considerably quicker.
When you've got HIV and they are in treatment, It can be a good idea to talk to your health practitioner about any symptoms you are acquiring to figure out the bring about.
Verywell Overall health's content is for informational and academic functions only. Our website is not really meant to be described as a substitute for Experienced clinical advice, analysis, or treatment.
When you've got a unexpected rash with flu-like symptoms two to 6 weeks after obtaining sexual intercourse which has a husband or wife of unfamiliar HIV position, you must get examined for HIV.
HIV is spread by means of contact with genitals, for example for the duration of sexual intercourse without having a condom. Such a an infection is referred to as a sexually transmitted an infection, also known as an STI.
From Mayo Clinic in your inbox Enroll in cost-free and continue to be updated on exploration breakthroughs, health recommendations, present health and fitness subject areas, and know-how on managing health. Click here for an e-mail preview.
“Persons of all sexual orientations have to be educated regarding their danger and knowledgeable on how to shield them selves,” she said. “And that features being educated about PrEP, a safe and successful medication for preventing HIV that’s not well known beyond the gay community.”
Chances are you'll get worn out considerably faster than typical and you may experience away from breath even right after light exercise. You could encounter a persistent headache which can vary from mild to intense.