How did you know HIV positive?

How did you know HIV positive?

If you didn’t know earlier that you were infected with HIV, you may realize it after you have some of these symptoms: Being tired all the time. Swollen lymph nodes in your neck or groin. Fever that lasts more than 10 days.

Can you have HIV for 4 years and not know?

This stage is called chronic HIV infection. After your body’s initial response to the HIV virus, you may not have any symptoms for many years. But if left untreated, the HIV virus will continue to destroy CD4 cells and attack your immune system.

At what stage of HIV infection do symptoms begin?

Stage 1: Acute primary infection. The early symptoms of HIV can feel like having the flu. Around one to four weeks after getting HIV, you may start to experience these flu-like symptoms.

Does ARVs affect menstrual cycle?

ARVs don’t affect a woman’s menstrual cycle. Therefore this is something that you may wish to discuss with a specialist if it continues.

What happens when you are diagnosed with HIV?

Receiving an HIV diagnosis can be life changing. You may feel many emotions—sadness, hopelessness, or anger. Allied health care providers and social service providers can help you work through the early stages of your diagnosis.

How can I get help if I have HIV?

Allied health care providers and social service providers can help you work through the early stages of your diagnosis. They are often available at your health care provider’s office. Learn more about what a positive test result means. If you have a primary health care provider, that person may have the knowledge to treat your HIV.

What is a primary health care provider for HIV?

A primary health care provider is someone who manages your regular medical care and annual tests. If your primary health care provider does not have the knowledge to treat your HIV, they can refer you to an HIV health care provider. You can also find Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program providers , and essential support services you need.

What is HIV and how is it treated?

So once you have HIV, you have it for life. It is important that you start medical care and take medicine to treat HIV as soon as possible after diagnosis. This medicine is called antiretroviral therapy, or ART. Taking HIV medicine as prescribed can make your viral load very low.