The Call-On-Doc Guide to HIV

When it comes to recognizing whether you have HIV or not, getting tested is the only way to know for sure. (4) In the early stage, the condition can easily be confused with conditions like the flu and other sexually transmitted diseases, making regular STD screening important for anyone considered sexually active. 

HIV symptoms are defined in three stages that help to identify its level of progression in the human body. The stages recognized as acute HIV infection, clinical latency, and then acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, the first symptoms tend to arise two to four weeks after the initial sexual exposure as part of the infection’s first stage. (5) 

HIV is transmitted through specific body fluids from a person who has HIV and a detectable viral load.

Transmission can occur through unprotected sexual contact, sharing needles or syringes, and from parent to child during pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding if untreated. HIV is not spread through casual contact such as hugging, sharing utensils, or using the same toilet.

HIV symptoms vary depending on the stage of infection.

Early HIV infection may cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, sore throat, rash, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and body aches. Many people have mild symptoms or none at all. Without treatment, HIV can progress silently for years before causing more serious health problems.

Because symptoms are often nonspecific, testing is the only way to know if someone has HIV.

HIV is diagnosed through blood or oral fluid testing.

Modern HIV tests are highly accurate and can detect infection early. Routine testing is recommended for sexually active individuals, people with risk factors, and anyone who wants to know their status. Early diagnosis allows for prompt treatment and better health outcomes.

HIV is treated with antiretroviral therapy (ART).

ART works by suppressing the virus to undetectable levels, which helps preserve immune function and prevent transmission. Treatment is lifelong and most effective when taken consistently as prescribed. When viral load is undetectable, HIV cannot be sexually transmitted, a concept known as U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable).

Prevention plays a critical role in reducing new HIV infections.

Effective prevention strategies include condom use, routine testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), and avoiding needle sharing. Education and access to care are key components of prevention.

People living with HIV can lead full, active lives.

With regular medical care, adherence to treatment, and ongoing monitoring, most individuals maintain good immune health and quality of life. Mental health support and addressing stigma are also important aspects of comprehensive care.

Medical care should be sought after a potential HIV exposure, for new or concerning symptoms, or for routine testing and prevention planning.

Early evaluation allows for timely testing, treatment initiation, or preventive medication when appropriate.

Call-On-Doc offers confidential, clinician-guided HIV care through telehealth.

Through a virtual visit, patients can:

• Discuss HIV testing and prevention

• Review results and next steps

• Access treatment guidance and prescriptions when appropriate

Healthcare that fits your life — not your calendar.