HomeAnswersGeneral MedicineocdEven after I have tested negative for HIV several times, I am afraid I have it. What should I do?

Can someone get over my extreme fear of HIV?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Sajeev Kumar

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At February 19, 2023
Reviewed AtSeptember 13, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have been sexually active for nine years, and about two years ago, after a sexual encounter, I started to worry about it. It happened five years ago, and my symptoms included pain, weakness, and burning in my legs, thighs, and buttocks. After the sexual encounter, I tested many times with HIV rapid test kits (about 40 kits from four different manufacturers, all from the third and fourth generations).

I also have an OCD problem during the COVID epidemic. I feared Coronavirus, but after seeing a psychiatrist, I felt better in four months. After that, I lost 8.82 Ibs of weight, and the next year, I suddenly feared it was because I had HIV, so I tested myself 40 times with HIV rapid test kits, but the results were always negative.

So, please tell me because I am dying of anxiety if these symptoms are caused by neuropathy or HIV. My HIV tests came back negative, and I am worrying if these symptoms are caused by something else, like anxiety or stress. Should I test more or do other tests? Please help.

Answered by Dr. Sajeev Kumar

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query thoroughly and completely understand your concern.

First of all,stop worrying you do not have HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). It seems like you have unwanted fear of HIV, and it can be a manifestation of the OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder) you suffer from. I suggest you relax your mind. Do meditation and yoga that will help to reduce your anxiety. If this does not help, please get in touch with a psychological counselor and get treatment. Everything will be good soon. The probable cause for your problem is OCD. The differential diagnosis of this condition is an anxiety disorder. The probable diagnosis is OCD disorder. I suggest you do meditation, yoga, and psychological counseling to get better.

I hope my answer helps.

Take care.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sajeev Kumar
Dr. Sajeev Kumar

Pediatrics

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