Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a retrovirus and is associated with causing AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome) when it is active in the hosts body. The global incidence of HIV infections is increasing and there’s no direct cure for a full blown infection of HIV virus.
Why people get worried to get an HIV test ?
HIV infection can cause a severe effect on the human immunity and may attack the cells which maintain the immunity of the human body. Thereby making the body prone for opportunistic infections and systemic diseases. The very thought that one could be affected with HIV is scary but it is always better to get oneself tested and treated before the infection takes a full active course and treatment difficult worse. HIV testing is done very confidentially, hence one should not worry about the results of the same.
Also, one should understand that being HIV positive does not mean that you have AIDS, AIDS is diagnosed as a full blown infection of the HIV virus. The earlier the infection is noted, the better the prognosis is.
When is an HIV test advised ?
An HIV test can be advised by your physician or one can order a self-test too. Below mentioned are the few indications of an HIV test.
- Needle prick injury from an HIV infected person
- Blood transfusion from an HIV infected individual
- Multiple sexual partners
- Unawareness about the medical history and sexual history of your sexual partner
- While testing for a sexually transmitted disease
- History of sex with someone infected with HIV
- Pregnant women
- Surgeons, nurses and healthcare workers who might accidently acquire the infection from a patient.
Where can one get an HIV, testing done ?
HIV testing can be done in a doctor’s office or in a pathology laboratory.
What are the tests which can be done to check for an HIV infection ?
There are various tests which are available to check for HIV infection. Some countries even have home kits available to check for HIV infection.
There are tests which check for the viral load, immunoassays like western blot and ELISA (Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay) to check and confirm the infection, Nucleic acid, and RNA test.
Rapid antigen/antibody tests are available nowadays which are very easy to use and can yield results in about half an hour.
It is always better to get your blood tested for the HIV antigen (p24 antigen) and for the antibodies so the treatment can be started at the earliest.
One should get an HIV test done in a range of three months from when one is supposing the infection and should reconfirm the same after a period of six months.
In today’s world, many tests are available, but the gold standard is to get your blood tested for antigens and antibodies to confirm the infection as many other tests are technique sensitive and expensive too.
You can always seek consultation with your doctor to get a brief idea of the various types of testing which could be done when suspecting an HIV infection and which one can be suitable for you.
Disclaimer: The content provided here is meant for general informational purposes only and hence SHOULD NOT be relied upon as a substitute for sound professional medical advice, care or evaluation by a qualified doctor/physician or other relevantly qualified healthcare provider.
