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All You Need to Know About HIV and Testing

HIV home test

Many people confuse between ‘AIDS’ and ‘HIV’. It is essential to understand the difference between the two. HIV (humans immunodeficiency virus) is a virus that affects the immune system of the body. The individuals diagnosed with HIV earlier can start the treatment and have better health in the long term, whereas AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) refers to a set of symptoms that are caused by HIV. It is also known as the last stage of HIV.

HIV Testing

To date, there is no cure for HIV. However, with the early detection and right treatment as well as support, the individuals having HIV can lead long and healthy lives. The lifelong treatment can help in preventing AIDS. Therefore, timely HIV testing is important as it would help to put the mind at ease.

Many individuals do not have the symptoms of HIV and live for years without knowing that they have this deadly virus. However, getting tested for this can help you and your partner stay healthy. In case you have had unprotected sex, shared needles or injecting equipment, or diagnosed with an STI, it is advised to get the HIV Test. The list of types of HIV tests includes antibody screening tests, antigen combination tests, nucleic acid tests, etc. Apart from these, HIV home test kits are also available in the market.

HIV Home Testing

HIV testing can help you know the status of your health and reduce the anxiety of not knowing. Many people put off the testing as they are worried about the result. However, knowing the status helps to take timely action. The individuals who feel hesitation going to doctor can use the home test kits to check if they have HIV. Home tests offer numerous advantages, such as convenience, privacy, and easy to use. You can order the HIV home test kit online and take the test.

The home test is an ideal choice for

  • Individuals who need to keep their medical conditions private
  • Individuals living in places where they can’t be anonymous
  • Individuals living in remote areas
  • Individuals not having schedule flexibility
  • Individuals engaged in the high-risk behaviours and never been tested for HIV

Swollen glands, fatigue, muscle aches, night sweats, fever, etc. are some of the symptoms that might appear in the early stage of the infection. If you experience these symptoms and engaged in unprotected sex with an HIV infected person, trading sex for drugs, it is advised to take the HIV test.