Patient's Query
Hi,
I think I have been exposed to HIV or other blood-related infections. I want to consult and understand how to rule out any unfortunate possibility. Kindly help. I have had a cough for two days. Can I take any test or medicine to rule out HIV?
Kindly help.
Hi,
Welcome to icliniq.com.
I read your query and understand your concern.
Please mention the following details for clarification:
1. Type of risk exposure?
2. When was the exposure?
3. Please provide your age, intercourse history, and partner details.
I will try to help you.
To rule out HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), you need to take an HIV antibody test, a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) test, or PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis), which can be done depending on the time.
I hope this helps.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hello,
It was a needle prick event. But I am not sure if the needle was infected or not. I am a 32-year-old married male, and this incident happened to me five days ago.
Please help.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
It is still not clear about where, which site, which needle, and how you got a needle prick?
It is already more than three days old. So there is no benefit of PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis).
Not all needles are HIV infected. But if the needle is likely to be infected, then I suggest you go for
1. HIV antibody test.
2. HIV 1 and 2 RNA PCR test after 14 days of exposure.
3. Followed by HIV antibodies test, HBsAg (hepatitis B surface antigen), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) after three months of exposure.
If the needle is not infected, there is no need to worry about any tests.
Thank you.
Patient's Query
Hello,
I do not know if the needle was infected or not. But I fear it to be the case. I will get the tests done then. Should I be looking for symptoms? Should I take any precautions? Also, can I get tested sooner? And will these tests be conclusive? Can I be intimate with my wife? I have a 2-year-old kid. Any precautions around him? I am sorry, but I am stressed and not able to concentrate. I just want to get this over as soon as possible.
Hello,
Welcome back to icliniq.com.
I understand your concern.
Please get the tests done as mentioned above.
You have not told me about the needle prick details to assess whether it is severe enough to get HIV?
Thank you.
Was this conversation helpful?
Answered byDr. Basti Bharatesh Devendra
Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team
Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!
Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.