[Question #8967] follow up on previous question
37 months ago
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Dear Doctors
Since my last message, i started to develop new syptoms.
23 days after exposure i started having big Headache(and i rarely had headache before), almost every day, and i have unusual pain in the neck.
I didnt have fever.
On the same day i did another HIV test, and the result came negative Hiv 1/2 at ag 0.16
Does it mean that new symptoms are not connected to HIV or any STI?
i also did full blood test, and all the results are good.
I have much much less anxiety, but still curious about new symptoms.
thank you
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H. Hunter Handsfield, MD
37 months ago
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Greetings and welcome back. I'll be taking your question this time, but I reviewed your recent discussion with Dr. Hook. I agree with everything he said.
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All is well: As you apparently understand already, your negative blood test indeed means HIV is not the cause of your symptoms. As Dr. Hook advised last time, it is not possible to have HIV symptoms with a negative blood test. And headache and neck pain are not typical HIV symptoms. They are not likely symptoms from any other STI either. If they continue or are severe, consider seeing your doctor -- but no HIV/STI worries.
Let me know if anything isn't clear. Best wishes --
HHH, MD
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37 months ago
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thank you Sir.
how reassuring can my testing right after pep be?
i guess if its a negative test that is really unlikely to be otherwise 6 weeks after
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H. Hunter Handsfield, MD
37 months ago
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Testing addresses two issues: whether someone has HIV; and, separately, whether symptoms are caused by HIV. Your current test is too soon to prove you do not have HIV; you need a negative result 6 weeks after finishing PEP. However, it does prove your symptoms are not caused by HIV.
All things considered, there is almost no chance you have HIV, but you'll need final testing for conclusive proof. In the meantime, please do not worry about the symptoms you have described. They do NOT suggest you have HIV.
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37 months ago
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Thank you Doctor.
Considering that is minimum chance of getting hiv from last exposure, would i put my regular partner in risk if i have unprotected sex with her, or it’s better to wait for conclusive result?
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H. Hunter Handsfield, MD
37 months ago
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Only you can make that decision. From a personal perspective, if somehow I were in your situation, I would continue unprotected sex with my wife without worry.
That completes the two follow-up comments included with each question and so ends this thread. I hope the discussion has been helpful. If you have been happy with the service, consider making a tax deductible donation to the forum sponsor. ASHA is the nation's leading organization in support of sexual health. Look for the Donate link at www.ashasexualhealth.org.
Best wishes and stay safe.
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