Your doctor will probably recommend running tests to determine how severe your infection is and what kind of treatment will work best for you. They may take samples of your blood to determine how much the virus has already damaged your immune system, how much of the virus is in your bloodstream, and whether the strain you have is resistant to any medications. [2] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
If you live in the U. S. , you can find HIV care providers through the American Academy of HIV Medicine Referral Link website here: https://providers. aahivm. org/referral-link/referral-link-search?reload=timezone. If you have trouble remembering your appointments, use a planner or an app to help you keep track. Before your appointment, write down any questions or concerns that you want to discuss with your doctor so that you don’t forget.
Let your doctor know if you are taking any other medicines, vitamins, or supplements, since some of these can interact with HIV medications and make them less effective. [5] X Research source For example, cholesterol medications commonly cause interactions. Have a pharmacist review your entire medication list to check for possible interactions. If you take your medications consistently, you may be able to reduce the amount of HIV in your bloodstream so much that it becomes undetectable. This will not only help you stay healthier, but will also reduce your chances of passing on the infection to someone else.
Tell your doctor right away if you experience side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, muscle pain, dizziness, or difficulty sleeping. They may be able to adjust your medications or prescribe something to minimize the side effects. [7] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Liver and kidney damage Other sexually transmitted infections Tuberculosis Hepatitis Toxoplasmosis Urinary tract infections
Influenza (Flu) Hepatitis A and B Tetanus, Diptheria, and Pertussis (TDaP) Pneumonia Meningitis Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) (if you are 26 years old or younger) Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) Varicella (Chicken Pox)
Use a 7-day pillbox so that you can keep track of your daily doses throughout the week. Download an app that can send you reminders and help you track your medication use, such as the Medisafe Medication Management app or the Mango Health app. Ask a family member or friend to remind you to take your medication. If you plan to travel, make sure to take enough medication with you to last you through the trip.
There’s evidence that certain dietary supplements, such as whey protein and acetyl-L-carnitine, may reduce some of the symptoms of HIV/AIDS and strengthen your immune system. Talk to your doctor before trying any supplements, however, since some of them may interfere with your medications. Let your doctor know if you have any concerns about your weight or appetite. [13] X Research source
Avoiding raw foods, like sushi, raw eggs, or unpasteurized dairy products and juices. Staying away from raw sprouts, such as bean or alfalfa sprouts. Avoiding tap water or water from natural sources, such as rivers and lakes.
If you’re dependent on drugs or alcohol, talk to your doctor about the best way to quit.
If you’re not sure what kinds of exercise are safe for you, talk to your doctor. Getting daily exercise can also lift your mood and help you manage your stress levels.
Keeping your room dark, cozy, and quiet at night. Avoiding stimulants like caffeine and nicotine a few hours before you go to bed. Going to sleep and waking up at the same time each night. Establishing a relaxing bedtime routine, which might include reading, taking a warm shower, or doing a little meditation.
Limiting the number of people you have sex with. The more sexual partners you have, the more likely you are to get an STI or pass one on to someone else. Avoiding using drugs or alcohol before you have sex. These substances can impair your judgment and make you more likely to make risky decisions. Taking your HIV medications while you are sexually active. These will make you less vulnerable to new infections, and will also make it less likely for you to pass HIV on to your partner(s). Getting screened every 6 to 12 months for gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis
Washing your hands regularly with soap and warm water Brushing and flossing your teeth daily to prevent dental decay and gum disease Keeping your home clean and tidy Properly washing and disinfecting food preparation areas and utensils Washing your hands carefully after handling animals, pet cages, and litter boxes[21] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Spending time with friends and family Working on hobbies or creative projects Doing meditation or yoga Exercising or spending time outdoors
If you don’t have any close family or friends you can talk to, reach out to your doctor. They may be able to connect you with support services in your community.
It’s especially important to seek help if you experience symptoms of depression, such as persistent sadness, feelings of emptiness or hopelessness, anxiety, loss of interest in things you used to enjoy, and lack of appetite. Some HIV/AIDS clinics have mental health professionals on staff.
You can also find online support groups and discussion boards if meeting with a group in person isn’t practical for you.
If you live in the U. S. , you may qualify for financial support through the Ryan White HIV/AIDS program, which helps low income or uninsured patients across the country. [26] X Research source The HIV Medicine Association also offers a list of patient assistance programs that may help: https://www. hivma. org/hivaids-resources/patient-assistance-programs/.
Choose a time when you and your partner are both calm and you are not likely to be interrupted. Find a quiet place where you can talk privately. [29] X Research source You might start by saying something like, “This is hard for me, but there’s something important I have to tell you. I found out a year ago that I’m HIV positive. ” Be prepared to answer your partner’s questions. Try to stay calm and answer their questions openly and honestly.
PrEP medications are antiretroviral medications that can prevent an HIV infection from developing. If your partner uses them consistently, they can reduce their risk of catching HIV by up to 92%. The current PrEP is Truvada (tenofovir disoproxil fumarate-emtricitabine), which is a combination medication. Your partner will need to be screened for HIV and other STDs every 3 months while taking PrEP.
If you have already shared needles or injection equipment with anyone else, let them know about your HIV+ status. Always use a new, clean syringe if you need to give yourself any kind of injection.
Taking your HIV medications consistently throughout your pregnancy Having a C-section instead of a vaginal birth Feeding your baby formula instead of breastfeeding them Giving your baby antiretroviral medications prescribed by your doctor for several weeks after they are born
