So so so so so worried!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Help!!!!

Ok I just got diagnosed with Shingles at 19, the Doctor took one look at me and said 'Shingles' so now he's put me onto a range of medicines. Im very much aware of the fact that somebody my age should not get Shingles so Im absolutely devastated and now my mind has gone into crazy mode thinking I must have HIV. I had unprotected sex over a year a go so I could have been exposed to it. Im so scared and I dont know what to do! The doctor never said anything to me about how Shingles occurs in people with weak immune systems but he did say about Chicken pox (since I know it is a reactiviation of this virus) - because he didnt mention HIV does that mean Im OK? Is the stuff on the internet about Shingles and HIV just scare mongering? Can someone please help me?

[jessie221a]

Please, somebody? Does anyone know anyone my age who has been HIV negative but had Shingles? (I need some hope) You yourself maybe?

[Vance2335]

Be patient, you only posted 30 mins ago.

You have had unprotected sex so you should test for HIV. Symptoms or lack of symptoms means nothing. Shingles happen for lots of reasons. Get tested and use condoms.

[jessie221a]

Sorry. I'd just got back from the Doctors so I was really freaking out. I am getting tested. Are you saying that I don't need to worry even though I have Shingles at 19? :)

[Vance2335]

I can't predict your HIV status, only a test will tell you if you have it or not.

[mallly]

dont worry jessie, anyone can get shingles,i know a kid of 6yrs had shingles and he is not hiv x chill

[jessie221a]

OK Ive just been tested and Im relieved to say Im HIV negative. Im just updating this so that anyone who is in an utter panic like I was, because theyre young, had a potential exposure to HIV and got shingles a year or so later, can see that it does not necessarily mean you have HIV.