If you just typed that sentence into Google, you probably skipped from site to site reading lists of answers that ranged from “nothing” to “it varies” to a laundry list of flu-like signs that spiral into a foreboding list of later stage infection.  Stop.  If you think you may have been exposed to HIV, get an HIV test.  We’re here to help. You can get tested today without an appointment.  No need to take off a day from work, deal with embarrassing questions, or worry about the test appearing on your insurance bill or medical records.

You may be wondering…if I have HIV, would I feel it?  Maybe.  HIV and AIDS, in the very early stages, may feel like the flu.  The virus attacks the immune system so your body can respond with a fever, swollen glands, skin rashes, body aches, or headaches.  But HIV can be silent for years so you cannot rely on symptoms to know if you are infected.  Some people can live with HIV for 8 years and not know it.  After the virus kills off helper T cells (CD4 lymphocytes), the body may weaken and develop chronic symptoms like diarrhea and weight loss.  Very serious symptoms happen in the later stages of infection which is when HIV officially becomes AIDS.  You can learn more about HIV and HIV testing here.

Bottom line?  Worrying about HIV doesn’t help you get answers.  A quick blood test at Labcorp does.  We’re here to help that happen privately, easily, and with a free doctor consultation if your test is positive.  It’s important to know your status for peace of mind but also to prevent transmission of the virus to other people.  Your results are your business and no one else’s.  All states require a legal provision to ensure the highest degree of confidentiality with regard to personal health data, especially HIV data.  Dr. Google provides information, but we’re here to help you find answers.