I contracted HSV-1 from this incident. I didn't have any STDs before this happened and now I am afraid that I may have contracted HIV. I had an ELISA test performed at 5.5 weeks which came back negative. I have been having "symptoms" for about 7 weeks now (which started about 1.5-2 weeks post exposure) and I have another test scheduled for next Monday (which will be 10 weeks).

Should I be so scared of HIV infection given the risk of my possible exposure?

Anyone have any thoughts. I'm pretty scared today.

You would be more at risk if you performed oral sex. Your risk is extremely low. HSV is a lot more contagious then HIV. Besides your tests can be considered by many as conclusive. Still get the other test for peace of mind, but my opinion is that you will be fine!!!

Thanks, I know that stuff, but sometimes Ineed to hear it again.

Feeling nervous again. Very nervous. I have had these symptoms for like 7 weeks now.

what symtoms are you having, i am in the same situation i think. i need to get to the docters.

Well the ones I still have are floaters (although an opthamologist said my eyes are ok), fatigue, and post nasal drip without congestion. I have had these for about 7 weeks. I have a 5.5 week negative ELISA after 3 weeks of symptoms.

I think you need another test. Why? STRESS!! You will NEVER be free of all your symptoms! HIV has MANY symptoms that are ALSO symptoms of other things, such as the common cold, influenza, stress. You cant diagnosis HIV with syptoms.

Generally ARS symptoms begin 2-4 weeks after exposure and last a week or two. most commonly theres is a fever, a sore throat, and fatigue, although other symptoms may occur. HOWEVER, not ALL people have syptoms. Many do not. The BEST advice I can give you is to get the test at three months. Chances are your fine,your risk was very low. Test for safety and peace of mind.

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Good Luck and Be Safe

Bill22, I also have floaters. This is very common. If you did you would find most people have them. I'm not sure of the cause, but it's not related to HIV. As for the post nasal drip...it's summer time. Maybe you are experiencing some type of allergy which is causing this, along with the fatigue. It's not uncommon. I never had allergies before and all of a sudden I've been suffering from them. Stress, as you've probably already read, can do a big number on your system. I would say try to relax, but I know how hard these times can be. Just hang in there and with your next test I'm sure you will get reassured. In the meantime if your symptoms worsen you need to see a doc about something else that may be going on. Take care and keep us posted!!

Originally posted by maybe helpful:
I think you need another test. Why? STRESS!! You will NEVER be free of all your symptoms! HIV has MANY symptoms that are ALSO symptoms of other things, such as the common cold, influenza, stress. You cant diagnosis HIV with syptoms.

Generally ARS symptoms begin 2-4 weeks after exposure and last a week or two. most commonly theres is a fever, a sore throat, and fatigue, although other symptoms may occur. HOWEVER, not ALL people have syptoms. Many do not. The BEST advice I can give you is to get the test at three months. Chances are your fine,your risk was very low. Test for safety and peace of mind.



I plan on testing at three months. Did you think that I thought my 5.5 week negative was conclusive? I still have 3 weeks to go at this point. ACtually I have a 10 week test coming up on monday.

Originally posted by normorcrazy:
Bill22, I also have floaters. This is very common. If you did you would find most people have them. I'm not sure of the cause, but it's not related to HIV. As for the post nasal drip...it's summer time. Maybe you are experiencing some type of allergy which is causing this, along with the fatigue. It's not uncommon. I never had allergies before and all of a sudden I've been suffering from them. Stress, as you've probably already read, can do a big number on your system. I would say try to relax, but I know how hard these times can be. Just hang in there and with your next test I'm sure you will get reassured. In the meantime if your symptoms worsen you need to see a doc about something else that may be going on. Take care and keep us posted!!


I have seen a doc he says not to worry, but I didn't really get a good exam from him.

Bill22,

floaters are NOT ARS symptoms. On another side, as it has already been written to you, ars last for about 2 weeks. After 7 weeks, you should be over them.
So, relax before taking the conclusive test at 3 months.

Thanks guys. I am just not right physically and I had the symptoms before I even though about HIV. Not much I can do but wait and test at this point I guess.