Getting tested for HIV (AIDS)is convenient and completely confidential, just 3 steps to regaining your piece of mind, by finding the answers to your questions about HIV (AIDS) and other STDS from our trained medical professionals.
What is HIV (AIDS)?
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) is a Sexually Transmitted Disease.
- HIV damages the immune system and interferes with the body’s ability to fight off diseases.
- It is chronic and potentially life-threatening.
- Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is a condition caused by HIV.
- It may take many years for HIV to weaken the immune system and for you to develop AIDS.
- Although there is no cure for HIV or AIDS, there are certain medications that can help slow it down.
What are HIV (AIDS) Symptoms?
- Often asymptomatic (showing no signs), or showing only mild signs.
- Symptoms vary based on the phase of the infection.
How is HIV (AIDS) Transmitted?
- HIV is spread through vaginal, anal or oral sex.
- Spread through infected blood, semen or vaginal secretions that enter your body.
- Spread through sharing needles.
- Spread from mother to baby during pregnancy, delivery and breast-feeding.
- Spread through contact with infected blood, includes blood transfusions.
How do you Test for HIV (AIDS)?
- Tests detect the presence of HIV antibodies in the blood.
- A simple blood sample is needed to test for HIV.
What are the Complications of HIV (AIDS)?
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help prevent complications caused by HIV.
- Serious health complications can occur if the infection is left untreated.
- HIV weakens your immune system thus making you susceptible to many opportunistic infections and cancers.
How is HIV (AIDS) Treated?
- Incurable.
- Treatable with medication.
How Common is HIV (AIDS)?
- The CDC estimates that more than one million people are living with HIV in the U.S.
- Of those living with HIV 21% are unaware of their infection.
- Estimated 56,300 new HIV infections each year in the U.S.
