HIV

HIV is mainly spread by coming into direct contact with body fluids (semen, vaginal fluids or blood) from an infected person. The virus gets into the bloodstream through a mucous membrane found in the vagina, penis, rectum or mouth, or through open cuts or sores. Transmission can also occur through contaminated blood or from mother to child during pregnancy, labour, delivery or breastfeeding. However, with the right HIV treatment, women with HIV can have children and breastfeed without passing the virus to their child. 

HIV cannot be cured, but it can be controlled through medication. Some HIV medications may be similar to those used for PrEP, but the type and dosage differ depending on the situation and medical status of the patient. Therefore, it is important to always seek the advice of a medical professional so that they can determine what treatment plan is appropriate. 

HIV develops in several stages, each with different characteristics. Recognising HIV symptoms is crucial for early diagnosis and treatment. 

Stage 1: acute HIV infection 

Within 1 to 6 weeks after infection with HIV, flu-like symptoms may occur while the body fights the virus. This stage is known as acute HIV infection. Symptoms may include: 

• Fever, sore throat, muscle pain and tiredness 
• Swollen lymph nodes 
• Skin rash 
• Diarrhoea 
• Night sweats 

Some people may have an acute HIV infection without any symptoms. The symptoms of an acute HIV infection can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. 

Stage 2: chronic HIV infection 

After the acute stage, the virus is still present in the body but it may not cause any symptoms. This stage can last several years. It is still possible to transmit HIV to others during this stage. 

Stage 3: AIDS 

Untreated, HIV most often turns into AIDS. This means the immune system is severely damaged, leading to symptoms such as: 

• Weight loss 
• Chronic fatigue 
• Recurrent infections, such as pneumonia or candidiasis 

Doctoronline aims to provide more than medical support. We facilitate quick and easy access to expert advice through online consultations, without waiting times or clinic visits. This makes us an ideal choice for people who value discretion or don’t feel comfortable talking about their issues with a doctor in person. We will ensure your privacy is fully protected when processing your personal data and delivering your medications.  

How we help you: 

• Expert support: Our medical partners provide appropriate treatment based on your situation and needs. 
• Discretion guaranteed: Orders are packaged and processed discreetly. 
• Convenience: Online consultations without waiting times. 

Now that you know what HIV is and how Doctoronline can support you, we would like to help you with information about symptoms, tests and treatments. 

HIV testing is important to detect an HIV infection as early as possible. In the early stage of HIV, HIV can go unnoticed since symptoms can be mistaken for the flu. 

When to test for HIV? 

• If you have symptoms that could indicate HIV infection. 
• If you’ve had unprotected sex, especially with multiple sexual partners. 
• If your partner tests positive for HIV.  

Self-tests 

There are self-tests available that can be used to test for HIV at home. These tests are reliable if used according to the instructions on the kit. Remember to take into account the incubation period. During this window period, antibodies will not be detected in your blood. This means you could test negative during the window period yet be HIV positive. If you test positive, it is important to see a doctor for follow-up testing. If you are unsure of your results, talk to a doctor for professional advice. 

Early recognition of symptoms and timely testing are key. But what are the options for HIV treatment and prevention? 

HIV medications are used therapeutically in HIV-positive individuals to stop the virus from replicating. PrEP is used preventively in HIV-negative individuals to reduce the risk of getting HIV. Both treatment options are discussed below to help you understand which approach best suits your situation. 

HIV medicines are used to treat people who have been diagnosed by a doctor with HIV. The goal of treatment is to reduce the amount of HIV in the body, giving the immune system a chance to recover and making it impossible for HIV to be transmitted through sex. This is referred to as ‘therapeutic use’. 

Characteristics of HIV medications: 

• Effect: Suppress the HIV virus in the body. 
• Long-term use: HIV requires lifelong treatment. 
• Medical supervision: Treatment must be closely monitored by a doctor for response and for side effects to the medication. 

Treatment is essential: 

Without treatment, HIV can severely damage the immune system and progress to AIDS. The use of HIV medicines not only improves the health of people living with HIV but also is a highly effective strategy to prevent HIV transmission, if used correctly. 

HIV medicines should be taken consistently and exactly as prescribed to keep the virus under control and prevent resistance to HIV. This is important because skipping doses makes it easier for HIV to change form, causing the medication to stop working. Talk to your doctor if you have problems taking your medication or are experiencing side effects. 

PrEP is taken in advance to prevent infection, while PEP is an emergency treatment that should be taken as soon as possible after possible exposure to HIV. 

PrEP stands for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It is an HIV medicine taken to reduce the chances of getting HIV infection. PrEP is used by people who do not have HIV but are at high risk of contracting HIV. For example, individuals with an HIV-positive partner or a high risk of being exposed to HIV, for instance, through sex with several sexual partners. 

Characteristics of PrEP: 

• Effect: Protects people who are HIV negative from getting HIV. 
• Preventative use: PrEP is only for people who are HIV negative. PrEP is specifically designed to prevent HIV infection. Individuals with HIV need to be treated with another type of medication to control the virus. Note: PrEP pills must be taken each day for seven days to reach the level needed for full protection. 
• Regular checks: Users are required to take regular monitoring tests which include blood tests and STI screening every three months to ensure the safe and effective use of PrEP. Users can be on PrEP as long as they remain HIV negative. 
• Condom use: PrEP does not protect against STIs other than HIV, so it is important to use condoms. 

Prevention: 

PrEP prevents HIV from establishing itself in the body after exposure. However, even if you are using PrEP, it is important to use condoms to prevent the spread of STIs. Regular testing for STIs is also essential for good sexual health.  

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is only meant for emergency situations. PEP must be started within 72 hours after a possible exposure to HIV. This can be through unprotected sex or any incident that might result in HIV infection, such as tears in condoms. PEP is an intensive four-week course of HIV medicines and is prescribed by a healthcare provider. PEP is not intended to replace regular use of other HIV prevention methods, such as consistent use of condoms during sex or PrEP.