Understanding HIV Testing: A Crucial Step in Managing HIV

 

Introduction

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, specifically CD4 cells (T cells), which help the immune corruption. Diagnosing HIV infection early through testing is important to managing the illness well, and to preventing it from developing to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS). It is so important to get yourself tested and in this article, we discuss the types of HIV tests, the need for testing, how often you should be tested and what steps you need follow after a positive result.

Why Is HIV Testing Important?

There are many important things to know about HIV testing. At the most basic, it results in individuals knowing their HIV status and peace of mind. The sooner HIV is detected, the earlier people can be treated and by doing so be able to live healthier lives while reducing their chances of infecting others. People who have unsafe sex with more than one sexual partner or share needles should be especially vigilant about regular testing.

HIV testing can also relieve the anxiety of uncertainty, and is a core activity in public health initiatives to decrease HIV transmission.

Types of HIV Tests

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1. Antibody Tests

Antibody tests (also called serology tests) look for antibodies to HIV in a person's blood or fluids of the mouth. These tests are common in rapid testing kits and deliver results between 20 to 30 minutes. But antibody tests may not pick up the virus just after infection, because it can take the body a number of weeks to produce enough antibodies. During this time, the person is said to be in the "window period"

2. Antigen/Antibody Tests

Like the 3rd-generation test, the antigen/antibody tests can find HIV antigens (specifically, the p24 protein) and also antibodies. The test, also known as an RNA test, can detect the presence of virus in the blood sooner than just checking for antibodies. Laboratory tests: Antigen/antibody tests; Rapid tests

3. Nucleic Acid Tests (NATs)

During the first 1 to 4 days after infection, NATs (acronym for Nucleic Acid Tests) are able to detect HIV virus itself in blood. These tests are very sensitive but generally not used for those who are at higher risk for HIV or have acute symptoms. While NATs are more costly than other tests, they can detect HIV at an earlier stage of infection than either antibody or antigen/antibody tests.

TESTING How Often Should You Be Tested?

HIV testing frequency depends on personal risk factors. You should get tested at least once in your lifetime for everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 as part of routine health care, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). However, individuals with a higher risk should opt for more frequent testing.

Groups at Higher Risk:

BOTH MEN & WOMEN WITH MANY SEX PARTNERS

Men have sex with men (MSM)

PWID: People who inject drugs and share of needles

Sex workers

Persons with STIs

People who are in relationships with an HIVpositive partner

If you are in any of the following groups, testing every 3 to 6 months is ideal:

Where Can You Get Tested?

Multiple venues offer widespread availability for HIV testingampilkanToggleFullscreen HIV testing is widely available and accessible.

Healthcare Clinics: Several General practitioners including sexual health clinics now test for HIV as part of a routine checkup.

CHCs (Community Health Centers): Many public health entities also of free or low-cost HIV testing and assistance.

At-Home Testing Kits: Self-sampling kits enable you to perform the test yourself from home. You will generally get the results in a few days.

Pharmacies: There are some pharmacies that provide rapid HIV testing services.

If You Test Positive for HIV

Getting the news you have HIV might feel like a big blow, but remember many people with HIV can live long healthy lives when taking their meds correctly. Should you receive a positive result:

1. Consult a Healthcare Provider

A follow-up test will be needed by the health care provider who performed the initial testing and there are many treatment options if confirmed. The main treatment for HIV is antiretroviral therapy (ART). ART comes into its own in consistent use, and reduces the virus to nearly undetectable amounts of blood and is sufficient enough to prevent progression of HIV to AIDS as well transmission.

2. Q: So do you make changes in the way you live — healthier lifestyle adjustments?

Good healthy habits to keep you well include things like eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding tobacco or excessive use of alcohol. Here are the lifestyle changes that can allow you to manage HIV effectively.

3. Disclose to Your Partners

Notifying your sexual partners or people with whom you have shared needles can help prevent spread. As hard as these conversations may be you have discussions like this to ensure the safety and welfare of those situated near you.

4. Seek Support

This might get overwhelming to accept and live with in general but emotional support is always around your corner -- should be the same about cancer or HIV, so seek help if you find everything is going upside down. Organizations like the National AIDS Helpline have resources available to help you cope with the emotional and mental side of having HIV.

Conclusion

HIV testing is absolutely fundamental to controlling HIV transmission and getting people on treatment quickly. Whether you are a high risk or low risk individual just looking for your own peace of mind, regular testing is a responsible part of keeping yourself healthy and minimising the health risks to your community. After all, early detection can save lives — so get tested and spread the word.

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