Every action in life has consequences. Sometimes those consequences are good, and sometimes they are bad. Regardless, we as people make good and bad decisions all the time, and as a result we have to live with the consequences. For some, this means being exposed to and possibly getting HIV.
HIV Window Period Statistics
Window period is the term given over to the amount of time before a person can be tested for something. It is the period when the body begins creating the antibodies that doctors can use to diagnose what you have. The window period changes depending on what you think you may have, your personal physiology, and is dependent on the kind of test being done. Let’s take a look at a few of the tests that are commonly used to test for HIV, as well as their HIV window period statistics.
First and Second Generation Tests
The first and second-generation tests were the first to be created to test for HIV. These two tests look for anti-bodies that are created in people who have HIV. The average HIV window period statistics period is about 3 months, or 42-60 days. This is the average, and additional time will help ensure a definitive result.
Third Generation Tests
Third generation tests look for a wider range of antibodies, making it a more precise and delicate test. The third generation test requires only a window period of between 21-24 days.
Fourth Generation Tests
The fourth generation test looks for both antigens and antibodies, performing a full sweep and looking for anything related to HIV. Designed to test for plasma HIV RNA, the test can be accurate in as little as 14-15 days.
Understanding HIV
HIV carries a lot of weight with it in both the medical community and the general public. Often considered a death sentence, HIV s like cancer in that both have galvanized a response to try and cure it. This has led to a number of interesting treatments for those with HIV. More importantly, it has led to hope.
Yet, despite all of the attention HIV has received, the average person still does not understand much about what HIV is and what it does. Let’s take a closer look at HIV and see what kind of threat it really is. In addition to describing HIV, we will review HIV window period statistics, to tell you the best time to get tested in case you are worried that you may have it. Every action in life has consequences. If you are unsure if you have HIV, then make the right choice, read the following summary, and get tested.
So What Is HIV?
HIV stands for human immunodeficiency virus. It is a virus in the sub group of retro viruses that can cause the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, otherwise known as AIDS. What HIV and AIDS do is weaken the body’s immune system. While they are not directly responsible for killing people, they allow even a simple cold to become deadly. Without the body’s natural ability to fight off a cold, the body dies. HIV and AIDS help this happen.
HIV affects helper T cells in the immune system, rendering them useful in fighting off infections. The HIV virus itself is different than most other viruses because it is roughly spherical shaped and about 60 times smaller than a red blood cell. Once in the blood, it replicates and continues to thrive.
How Do People Get HIV?
HIV can be transmitted in a number of different ways. The most important thing to remember is that you cannot catch HIV, like you can a common cold. HIV can only be transmitted through fluid contact. The four most common ways to transfer the HIV virus is through blood, semen, vaginal secretion, and breast milk. The number of HIV virus’s decreases with every fluid listed. Sharing needles is a common way for the virus to spread from one person to another. Another way HIV is transmitted is through sexual intercourse. This includes vaginal, anal, and oral. Finally, it should be noted that tears, saliva, spit, feces, and urine do not contain the virus.
Early Symptoms
When a person first gets HIV, the body does not yet have antibodies created. As a result, it is a challenge to diagnose. During this time, the HIV will multiply within the individual, growing exponentially in number. A person will experience many symptoms often associated with the flue, including joint pains, loss of appetite, and headaches.
If you believe that you may have HIV, then don’t make the wrong choice. Instead, get yourself tested. Read up on the subject; see what kinds of things are available to you. People are living longer and longer lives with HIV, and the best thing you can do for yourself is to not give up.