HIV:Reality

“I got a HIV related illness, although I didn’t know it at the time. I was incredibly ill for a year- stomach pains, diarrhoea, weight loss. I ended up in hospital. It wasn’t until I was in hospital that the doctor suggested an HIV test. As soon as the doctor came in, it dawned on me it was bad news. But to be honest by then it was almost a relief; it meant they could treat me. I wish I had been diagnosed earlier, I think I was partly in denial. If I’d had a test sooner I wouldn’t have been in hospital.  Being that ill has taken a physical toll on my body. They caught it just in time, they told me I could have been blind by April and dead by June. If I could turn back the clock and have a test earlier I would.” Gary

“Well my generation, we weren't there when HIV first came out, so we didn't see the full brunt of it.  I know a lot of my friends have unprotected sex.  I think HIV might be something at the back of your mind or a slight panic the next morning but really you think HIV is something that happens to someone else.  When a friend of mine was diagnosed that was a wake up call.  I educated myself and I got tested. Now I'm in a relationship I'd like to know how often I should get a test." Rob 

"The first time I went for an HIV test was really nerve wracking, but it turned out to be really easy, they were really nice, and it was a huge relief when the test came back negative. Now I go regularly.” Anthony

"I had unprotected intercourse with someone in a high risk group, I was really worried about going for the test, but not as worried about what the result could've been, I went in had a quick blood sample taken, at 9.30am and had my results by 16.00 the same day, so quick and easy." Anon

Read more stories that have been submitted about getting tested here.

Watch videos about living with HIV here.

Over a quarter of people living with HIV in the UK do not know they are infected.  If you think you have put yourself at risk of infection it is important to take an HIV test as soon as possible. Gay men should have an HIV test at least once a year. Black African men and women should also make sure they are regularly tested.

Many people will experience symptoms of HIV in the first few weeks after infection. These are normally flu-like symptoms that pass after a few weeks, so they can easily be missed. The most common symptoms – a fever, a rash and a sore throat all occurring together - are actually unusual. If you’ve put yourself at risk recently these symptoms are clear warning signs you should have an HIV test.

Knowing your HIV status is very important for protecting yourself and your partner. An HIV test is simple, and testing technologies are improving all the time, meaning that you can find out the result earlier. Rapid testing clinics can offer results in 15 minutes. You can ask for a free and confidential test at your local sexual health clinic.

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