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Pet Scratch - HIV

Hi, all.

First of all. I am sharing my story for many of the people on here that are concerned about symptoms after low or no risk exposures to HIV.  I thought that I had contracted HIV through a dog scratch because about two week later, I developed symptoms of nausea, lymph nodes swelling (neck, groin, stomach, armpits, etc.).   I also developed a rash, cough, sore throat, and had a general ill feeling.  I thought that these these symptoms automatically equaled HIV.  Then, I thought that maybe the symptoms were stress or anxiety.  I was totally incorrect regarding both of these assumptions. At 9+ weeks, I am still suffering from many of these symptoms - I am currently suffering from stomach pain/tenderness, nausea, and the occasional sore throat.  I took three HIV tests and all were negative. Last week, I tested positive for mono.  I am glad that I know what is causing my symptoms. My physician said that it has to run its course and to take it easy.  The lesson I learned is to go to your physician if you are concerned about something and do not try to diagnose yourself (as it relates to HIV). Talk to your doctor.  If I would have done this before, it would have saved me months of worry.

I would like to share that I read that 90% of adults have EBV by age 40 and don't know it because they have not been tested for it or do not show signs of infection. I am one of the unlucky ones as it relates to signs of infection. I have closed the book on this issue and is moving on. Goodluck to everyone.

Remember all: If your exposure was low or no risk, do not try to diagnose yourself - Go to your doctor and get tested.

3 Responses
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Avatar universal
Um...dogs dont carry HIV. its called HUMAN immunodeficiency virus for a reason
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Avatar universal
teak is probably on of the best and intelligent communicators on this forum.if i would have listened i would not have got tested at 6months.it was a waste of time for someone with such a healthy immune system.
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Avatar universal
Also, I want to thank you TEAK for your honest communication. I should have listened. You told me that I had no risk.   I wish you all the best.  Thanks again!

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