Author Topic: Facts for fears (Read 35480 times)

o_g · « **on:** August 14, 2006, 02:50:56 pm »

Issue: Condom break(max exposure for a min - should be less)
Symptoms:
      Burning/Aching feet from day 8 onwards
      Stomach pains from ay 15 - day 40 with change in bowel movement
      Lip Irritation(burning sensation on top lip between 14-21 days)
      Mouth ulcers ( 50- 60 days)
      Feet and arms have been falling asleep/numb quite easily (especially in earlier days upon lifting something minimally heavy)
      Lymphocytes count on day14 - 15. 6% Neutophils - 75.6 %
      Lymphocyte count on day 84 - 18.6%   Neutophils - 77.5 %
      HSV-2 IGG(positive ELISA - reading: 1.3 on 1.0 scale) - day 84(12 weeks)
Hep-B [Negative - day 84(12 weeks)]

Currently almost 5 months past exposure. Still feel some hot gushes in feet from time to time and sometimes tingling sensation. Have been getting some acne on face & neck lately as well.

Elisa : 9 days, 80 days, 12 weeks (84 days) -------- Negative
Qualitative DNA PCR: 21 days, 60 days (2 months) -------- Negative

Please help me with my chances.

God Bless

Ann · « **Reply #1 on:** August 14, 2006, 03:00:52 pm »

O,

Symptoms or the lack of symptoms mean nothing when it comes to hiv infection. Only the appropriate test at the appropriate time will inform you of your status and you have done this. Your result was negative and that means you do NOT have hiv.

Whatever is going on with your body, it has nothing to do with hiv.

Please read through the condom and lube links in my signature line so you can avoid condom breaks in future. A correctly used condom rarely breaks and provides excellent protection against hiv.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #2 on:** August 14, 2006, 03:16:06 pm »

Hi Ann...
That was indeed quick. Even my docs have been trying to put it across me. However, in my case where it seems I contracted herpes from the same exposure (I am a male - talking about vaginal unrptected), the whole deal becomes unnerving.
Especially with the heat/tingling/aching I felt on my soles & feet and also burning hands pointing towards polyneuropathy and Gullian Barre Syndrome. I know you guys hate to discuss symptoms on this forum and I really don't want to push you beyond the limits set. But, I guess I am just majorly freaked out for last 5 months and have given up on enjoying small things in my life. And, honestly, I really didn't make up these symptoms. I idn't even know a while ago that there was something called peripheral neuropathy. I used to call it "my hands and feet burning".

Just getting to share my situation with someone is big enough deal. I can't ask you for more. Thanks for encoraging words...
Take care & God Bless

Ann · « **Reply #3 on:** August 14, 2006, 04:34:55 pm »

o,

Herpes is very, very easily transmitted. Hiv is not.

There is a very good chance that the sensations you are feeling in your extremities are connected to the tension and stress you are torturing yourself with. Go out and start living your life again and make sure you get some exercise. If the sensations persist, see your doctor.

PN is usually the result of the medications taken for hiv, not the hiv itself. When it is the hiv causing it, it only happens after years of being positive.

You have ruled hiv out of the picture. Use condoms for anal or vaginal intercourse from now on and you won't have to worry about hiv.

You need to be using condoms for anal or vaginal intercourse, every time, no exceptions until such time as you are in a securely monogamous relationship where you have both tested for ALL STIs together. To agree to have unprotected intercourse is to consent to the possibility of being infected with a sexually transmitted infection.

Have a look through the condom and lube links in my signature line so you can use condoms with confidence.

Anyone who is sexually active should be having a full sexual health care check-up, including but not limited to hiv testing, at least once a year and more often if unprotected intercourse occurs.

If you aren't already having regular, routine check-ups, now is the time to start. As long as you make sure condoms are being used for intercourse, you can fully expect your routine hiv tests to return with negative results. Don't forget to always get checked for all the other sexually transmitted infections as well, because they are MUCH easier to transmit than hiv.

Use condoms and avoid hiv infection. It really is that simple.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #4 on:** August 14, 2006, 06:41:36 pm »

Hi,

I never knew life can become this complicated. Probably my bad karma(unknowingly) that the condom broke on me. Few Q's:

1. Do you think that the testing done till now is conclusive keeping in mind the the Qualitative PCR's were for HIV-1 only. However, the ELISA's performed are 3rd generations.

2. Do you know cases where a 12 week negative turns out positive later?

Thanks and take care

RapidRod · « **Reply #5 on:** August 14, 2006, 07:03:21 pm »

You have conclusively tested negative. That's it bud!!

Ann · « **Reply #6 on:** August 14, 2006, 08:27:58 pm »

o,

Bad karma doesn't cause condoms to break, bad technique does. Make sure you read the condom and lube links in my signature line - correctly used condoms rarely break.

You are absolutely hiv negative and you do NOT need further testing.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #7 on:** August 15, 2006, 07:10:26 am »

Hi.....

Ok...first of all...thanks much for all your replies....

My exposure was in Italy with a Romanian SW(on a business trip) and the testing was carried out in Asia (again on a business trip). Do you think standard ELISA III in Asia will catch all the strains.
Also, I have seen some web-sites as well as some positive people(on Aidsmeds itself) reporting peripheral neuropathy during PHI and seroconversion. Some places it is reported when CD4 count goes down as in case of acute infection, a person might have neurological symptoms like myelopathy and polyneuropathy.
Any comments on that. It can really help a curious/restless mind and also act as a source of information.

Thanks.....

RapidRod · « **Reply #8 on:** August 15, 2006, 08:13:19 am »

You've tested negative conclusively and there is no more discussion needed. If you can not move on please make an appointment with a mental health care professional.

o_g · « **Reply #9 on:** August 15, 2006, 08:33:45 am »

I have talked to shrink about it. Couldn't spend much time with her and it didn't help me much. They wanted to put me on Zoloft and gave me anxiety pills. Didn't go on Zoloft due to not so good past experience of one of my friend's experience with it. However, started taking anxit pills to calm myself down. Currently, I am in Germany (again on business trip) and it is difficult to find a shrink who speaks english to get the point across. I guess u guys are my only HEROES in my situation. Thanks for being there. :-)

Ann · « **Reply #10 on:** August 15, 2006, 09:25:22 am »

o,

The only people I've ever heard of who had PM during primary infection were people who became so ill they had to be hospitalised. It is rare that PN happens during primary.

However, it is very common for people who are stressed out to have PN-like sensations in their extremities. Tense muscles impede blood flow and this can cause all sorts of problems. I suggest you sort your anxiety out before it leads to serious problems which can include digestive issues and heart/circulatory problems. Instead of sitting in your hotel room, searching the internet, go out for a long walk. Exercise will do you good.

There are also other illnesses that can cause PN - diabetes is one of the more common causes. You really should see your regular health care provider at the first opportunity to find out what is going on. In the meantime, stay off hiv internet sites and relax. You have tested conclusively negative for hiv. The tests used in Asia are just as good as the tests used in the US or European countries.

You are hiv negative - protect that status by using condoms correctly and consistently.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #11 on:** August 15, 2006, 11:52:57 am »

Hi,

RR: Thanks for the re-assurance
Ann: Thanks for the information + re-assurance

So, do you guys suggest that I should forget about HIV as a passing nightmare and move on although my bod is indicating something going wrong within(especially after the incident)?

Can I request u all to scream at me(nicely please) negative once and give me some words of wisdom which I know you all are very capable of after helping ppl out day in and day out.
Ann: thanks for ur detailed posts.
RR: Thanks for ur encouraging and to the pt. 1 liners. I do hope to get at least 1 bigger post from u

Andy, Sae, JK, Morgan, HIV Worker: I still got to hear from u wonderful people

And let me know if anyone is gona be stopping over in frankfurt anytime soon as this is my base for few mnths.

God bless n take care

o_g · « **Reply #12 on:** August 16, 2006, 03:34:19 pm »

Hi,

I want to ask if there have been infections transmitted through hetrosexual contacts in scenarios where the male is topping. If it happens, how often? Is there any data on infection caused by condom breaks?

Is ELISA III really conclusively reliable at 12 weeks. Pls answer??

Looking forward to your replies.

Thnx and regards.....

Ann · « **Reply #13 on:** August 16, 2006, 05:11:17 pm »

o,

Yes, men do become infected from topping. How often does it happen? How long is a piece of string?

However, it is rare for a top to become infected after a brief exposure resulting from a condom break.

Yes, your test is conclusive. Why would we lie to you? You are hiv negative and it's time for you to move on.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #14 on:** August 16, 2006, 05:20:04 pm »

Thank you for replying Ann. You' re a sweetheart. You know hun, this has been quite a humbling experience. I use to normally take pride in everything I do and felt as if I could rough anything. This just made me realize that how lacking in substance I was with absolute wrong notions about myself. All the confidence, attitude and cockiness have taken a major beating here. I can never again be an asshole I was(I miss it but I guess the party is over and this change is for good)
Something happened and these 5 months have completely changed me. I hate to be taking life so seriously. I just hope I can start liking this new person I have become sometime soon coz rite now its suffocating....

Thanks for ur answers again... Luv Ya'

God Bless

o_g · « **Reply #15 on:** August 17, 2006, 05:02:51 pm »

Hi...

Few Questions:

1. Just wondering whether 12 weeks is right time to test or 13 weeks. The grey areas w.r.t HIV really cause a lot of confusion and worry,

2. Is there any time difference between HIV detection when using 3rd generation ELISA as compared to the 4th generation?

3. How much and in what context do HIV ELISA generations matter?

Thanks for being so wonderful..cant tell how much ur answers mean to me...

God bless

RapidRod · « **Reply #16 on:** August 17, 2006, 05:17:11 pm »

12/13 weeks is only based in the different locals. 13 weeks is used here in the states except for Mass. and they use 6 weeks. The UK and others use the 12 week. If you test after your 12/13 weeks post exposure it doesn't matter what generation you use. The 4th generation test uses a combind test, P24 for antigens and the ELISA for antibodies. The P24 antigen test has a window period of up to three weeks. The ELISA test is reliable from six weeks onward.

o_g · « **Reply #17 on:** August 17, 2006, 05:26:53 pm »

Thanks RR.

Even I hav heard that window is 6 weeks in Mass but at the same time I am not sure what generation tests are they using. Some source suggest that they use 3rd gen and others say 4th gen. Any idea w.r.t this??

One thing for sure, this infection needs more attention from everybody and also more funding. I get very mad with the way that we have let this disease go on for 25 freaking years w/o developing any answers for it. What a waste of technology and brain. It seems its only wars and nuclear weapons mankind can think off.. SUX major...

RapidRod · « **Reply #18 on:** August 17, 2006, 05:32:40 pm »

To be honest with you, I don't know what generation test that they use. I'm sure someone in Mass. will let us know.

Ann · « **Reply #19 on:** August 17, 2006, 05:33:22 pm »

o,
If you count a month to be four weeks, there are actually thirteen months in a year, not twelve. The window period is three months and some people's three months means thirteen and others say twelve weeks.

It doesn't matter if you test at twelve OR thirteen weeks. Either is conclusive. In the UK and most of the world, twelve weeks is conclusive using the same tests they use in the States where the thirteen week is considered conclusive. It's you say tamatas, I say tomotos.

It doesn't matter what generation test you use at 12-13 weeks. The generation only matters in the first few weeks.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #20 on:** August 20, 2006, 01:34:54 pm »

Hi...& agian thnx for responding....

Ann, Rapid Rod - you guys are saying that my test on the 84th day is conclusively negative.

Ann · « **Reply #21 on:** August 20, 2006, 01:42:55 pm »

o,

We are saying you are conclusively negative and it's time for you to move on with your life.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #22 on:** August 20, 2006, 02:02:55 pm »

Sorry...by mistake..i wasn't able complete my posting and hit ENTER...

Actually, what bothers is the existing symptoms + knowledge of people testing upto 6 months and 1 even 1 year. Makes me wonder if my bod was so F'ed up w/o me even knowing about it that it is not producing enough anti-bodies.

Why can't even best of the best docs be certain of the window. It is a scary infection and by no mean medicine community is helping people out with direct and proper answers. Bringing up a topic of HIV with a doc is like a recent grad giving bunch of BS to an interviewer rather than giving specific answers...

I read in 1 of the posts that aidsmends track record is te best in evaluating risk and finding infection over the web. Congrats for that!!! I really hope and pray that I will be the one to enhance that record:-).

Stay cool (i guess I just can't)

Ann · « **Reply #23 on:** August 20, 2006, 02:16:42 pm »

o,

Most doctors have little experience of hiv infection and they don't bother to keep up to date. We here at AIDSmeds are certain of the window period - it's three months. Not six, not twelve, three. People might test out to six or twelve months but it is uneccessary as the results don't change unless there's been an additional risk during the window period.

If you cannot accept your negative status, please seek the assistance of a mental health care professional to help you come to terms with your health related anxieties. Please also see your doctor about any physical problems.

There is nothing more we can do for you here. The next step is up to you, but you won't be allowed to continue to use this forum to wring your hands.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #24 on:** August 22, 2006, 05:41:47 pm »

Hi....

Sorry .. if u r finding it really frustrating communicating with me. And,thanks for being so supportive all this while. Honestly - I am just scared. You know there is a saying that if u do something for 21 days, it becomes a habbit. I think remaining scared has become my habbit as I have been in state of paralysing fear for over 5 mnths. Fear overlapped by tingling and burning sensations and soles hurting just takes it to the next level.

I am on business in another country. I will try seeking counselling. Lets c. Thanks for your kind and caring remarks out of compassion. Really apericiated!!!

However, I saw 1 post from HIV worker today which mentioned he/she has seen someone turn 8 eek -ive to 13 week + ive. I just wanted some enlightenment on that if it is not too bothersome...

Thanks n Regards...Take care...n possibly for once can u all wondeful folks chip in with some comments...

RapidRod · « **Reply #25 on:** August 22, 2006, 05:46:08 pm »

That's why everyone states you must take the conclusive test 12/13 weeks to confirm.

ACinKC · « **Reply #26 on:** August 24, 2006, 05:10:47 pm »

You asked me in a PM to comment. Here is my comment, Listen to what the others have said! Test and be done with it.

o_g · « **Reply #27 on:** August 24, 2006, 05:14:05 pm »

Hi....
thanks for the replies.
Ok....i just wana share some permutation with u guys. I caught herpes from this exposure. Herpes increases chances of HIV transmission at the same time. I got it from 30 seconds of condom break incident. Mt herpes titre at day 84 was 1.30 on 1.0 scale. I caught is from a SW who sleeps with millions of ppl. In that situation it is almost for given that if she had herpes she ought to have hiv as pre-existing herpes also increases chaces of contracting hiv. Don'y u gys feel I need to be really worried with all this information. Please answer.....

Thanks

jkinatl2 · « **Reply #28 on:** August 24, 2006, 05:14:28 pm »

I agree with the others here. Trust me, when I don't, you usually know

RapidRod · « **Reply #29 on:** August 24, 2006, 05:19:48 pm »

Just because someone has herpies don't presume they have HIV. You're going a little overboard saying she had sex with millions of people don't you think.

ACinKC · « **Reply #30 on:** August 24, 2006, 05:23:59 pm »

I know 3 people who have herpes but not HIV and thats just my little social circle! It is NOT an indicator. STIGMA kills.

o_g · « **Reply #31 on:** August 24, 2006, 05:26:10 pm »

thx for replying AC, JK, Rapid

AC - when u say test and get done - do u mean i should go for more tests??

JK - hearty thnx - i know u r a no BS man from other posts - just to confirm wat u wrote in the only terms i am gona understand - u mean i am negative for sure

Rapid - thnx for alwayz being there..u dont know how much it means to me when in last few days u and ann have bee n taking up my cause. About going overboard in my last post - well isnt it true that if a herpes infection is found - the 1st thing the docs do is want to get u checked for HIV. So, people who gor herpes I guess(now including me) will be alwayz looked at suspiciously as a matter of fact...

Thanks guys...leme know wat u think

RapidRod · « **Reply #32 on:** August 24, 2006, 05:34:01 pm »

No that's not true at all. You'll be questioned about your past sexual history, protected or unprotected sex. You will then be tested for all other sexually transmitted diseases depending on your answers. Now if an HIV test is needed he/she will suggest a test and then you sign the promission form to do the test. Doctors don't go directly to thinking HIV. There are just to many other things that your symptoms could be.

Ann · « **Reply #33 on:** August 24, 2006, 05:53:09 pm »

AC, if you're going to give advice over here, please read the posts first. og has already tested conclusively negative and it's time for him to move on.

og,

Guess what. It doesn't matter, in your case, whether herpes was present or not or whether you contracted it from this encounter or not. Not where hiv is concerned. Why? Because you are CONCLUSIVELY HIV NEGATIVE. Herpes doesn't come into it. You are hiv negative.

Please go back and read the Posting Guidelines before you keep this up. We do not allow people to use this place as a substitue for mental health care. If you cannot accept your negative status, you need to get some face-to-face help. We cannot offer you that here. If it takes a time out to encourage you to get the help you need, then so be it. Please consider yourself warned.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #34 on:** August 24, 2006, 05:59:43 pm »

Rapid...

I think u got me wrong there. I completely agree with u say when te symptoms can mean million other things. What I mean is if someone is newly diagnosed with herpes, docs kinda wana make sure that there is not an hiv infection that came along coz getting herpes increases the possibility of hiv co-transmission. Simple reason being the huge amt. of hiv virus come to the part of the skin which has open herpes sores so when herpes is transmissted as in my case when penis came in contact with the vaginal wall, there r more chaces that hiv tags along as well..

The whole scenario has left me scared shit. Hopefully, she didn't have hiv...I just hope my tests are conclusive

Take care

Ann · « **Reply #35 on:** August 24, 2006, 06:03:01 pm »

og,

Did you read a word I just wrote to you? Or am I talking to myself... again?

Ann

RapidRod · « **Reply #36 on:** August 24, 2006, 06:20:59 pm »

Why are you going on with all these questions when you reliably tested negative?

o_g · « **Reply #37 on:** August 24, 2006, 06:53:30 pm »

hi....

Ann - I submitted my post, then only saw ur reply - SORRY!!
Rapid - thanks....i will try to calm down and hope sanity prevails

take care guys

o_g · « **Reply #38 on:** August 24, 2006, 08:47:16 pm »

Hi Ann...

U said it is rare that PN happens during early stages of disease but it does happen. Even the docs say that it can happen as a result of HIV infectio or as a result of medication. Does any of the experts know if there is any particular subtype which causes more PN symptoms during initial phases.

Thanks.....

Andy Velez · « **Reply #39 on:** August 24, 2006, 08:53:55 pm »

You can forget about subtypes and any other scary stuff your mind comes up with because you have reliably tested negative for HIV.

You ARE HIV negative. Period. End of story.

If you are having troubling symptoms you should be discussing them with your doctor.

Fears and feelings aren't facts. A test result is a fact. So give it up, please. You're condemned to live.

If you can't get past this head stuff then put some time in with a therapist or other like professional and find out what is REALLY driving your unwarranted fears about HIV.

Cheers,

RapidRod · « **Reply #40 on:** August 24, 2006, 08:54:29 pm »

PN is not HIV specific. Anyone can get PN..

o_g · « **Reply #41 on:** August 24, 2006, 09:02:24 pm »

Guys,

I am very sorry that my panaroia is making lives difficult for u. I am currently on a business trip for which i have worked all my adult life and i am not able concentrate. I am breaking down. In a different country and also can not get a shrink help here. I think i am gona wrap it up pre-maturedly n return. And for u awesome ppl....i have plenty of hugs on offer.. Had it not been u.i dont know what would i have done...

Take care fellas....

scaredstraight68 · « **Reply #42 on:** August 25, 2006, 12:36:57 am »

Good luck to you o g. Enjoy your status and enjoy your life. Life is too short for all of us to take time for granted.

Cheers

o_g · « **Reply #43 on:** August 25, 2006, 05:42:42 pm »

Hi Everybody....

Do u guys think that ELISA 3rd generation antibody test for hiv -1/2 performed in asia will pick up strains from europe - italy. Does these tests which labs and hospitals provide take into consideration the global factor or are more regionaly inclined for specific subtype found in that region itself. Don't you guys think this is 1 decent question i am asking in a long while. Basiclly, what I want to kow if if you thinko 3rd generation elisa's are the same worldwide or not.

Thanks

RapidRod · « **Reply #44 on:** August 25, 2006, 09:43:43 pm »

There the same. Why are you asking, you are negative.

Morgan · « **Reply #45 on:** August 26, 2006, 12:00:52 am »

O G,

In response to your PM request for input on you situation I can only direct you to re-read your thread as you have already received an execellent assessment from the best this site has to offer.

Morgan

Ann · « **Reply #46 on:** August 26, 2006, 05:49:41 am »

og,

The hiv antibody tests - any of them - will pick up hiv infection by 12-13 weeks, no matter where the infection originated from. You are conclusively hiv negative.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #47 on:** August 27, 2006, 09:02:35 pm »

Hi Experts....

1st of all...thanks for all the support that u people have thrown my way. I want to reenforce the fact that people like me really value it. Your efforts towards helping people out in difficult situationsis extremely humbling for a normal person like me. I do not have enough words to thak u more ---- "Thanks"

I will try to get my head in right place and look at things more objectively. I am gona admit that i still have fear of being infected but i will try to work my ay out. I am sorry for being a pain in last few days but I am sure I am neither the 1st or the last of the kind whom u r goa provide ur wonderful advices to.

Take care guys.....

P.S: I hope i dontget panic attacks again but if i do could i guys be there till i get bak n get to my shrink...I will try real hard not to make ur lives miserable coz of me and keep my imagination on a tight leash .. :-{

o_g · « **Reply #48 on:** August 28, 2006, 06:04:01 pm »

hi everyone..
just 1 more worry i have..i got an HIV-1 Proviral Qualitative(DNA) RT- PCR done for HIV. This PCR is provided by Artus Real Art. I am not sure what strains it tested for. Also, the ELISA I got done, I am not sure if standard ELISA picks up all the strains. If the combination of these 2 tests cover up everything, then I guess I am good to go...

What say???

Someting pls......

Thanks......

RapidRod · « **Reply #49 on:** August 28, 2006, 07:45:33 pm »

Doesn't make a difference. You are HIV negative.

Anyone who continues to post excessively, questioning a conclusive negative result or no-risk situation, will be subject to a four week Time Out (a temporary ban from the Forums). The purpose of a Time Out is to encourage you to seek the face-to-face help we cannot provide on this forum.

o_g · « **Reply #50 on:** September 04, 2006, 05:10:49 am »

Hi guys,

I lifted weights yesterday almost after 5 months of panicking. Previously, every now n then I was doing push ups but was too consumed by all this worry to really head to gym n lift weights. I have been experiencing my heels hurting when I exercise.

Also, my health care provider asked me to ejaculate at least 2 times a week so I keep my head in contol and don't become lusty. For last so many months I noticed that when i do that, my feet hurt and mildly burn for the remainder of the day.

I would also want to know that during acute infection does the WBC count go down or up. And if u mean to say WBC count goes down, then does it mean both lymphocytes and neutrophils go down or does it mean only lymphocytes go down.

It will be god to hear back from you guys....

Thanks n God Bless

o_g · « **Reply #51 on:** September 04, 2006, 05:15:04 am »

Hi,

Also I feel burning feet when I drink beer...Does HIV have any bearing on consuming alcohol.

Thanks

RapidRod · « **Reply #52 on:** September 04, 2006, 08:27:47 am »

Enough OG, move on. You don't have HIV and we don't care that you have to jerkoff several times a day. Take all your symptom questions to your doctor. We're done!!!!!!

o_g · « **Reply #53 on:** September 04, 2006, 10:17:33 pm »

Rapid,
Please do not get mad at me. Why I am questioning repeatedly is good enough evidence of my respect for your knowledge and the work all of you guys are doing over here.
It is extremely difficult to talk to people regarding HIV unless and until someone has been in your shoes at some point of time in their lives.
I have no intention of questioning your judgement regarding me being not infected but it does take some time to get over the nightmare of symptoms i have had in last few months and the best way to go about it is by asking someone who is more knowledgable than me regarding HIV.
Will it be possible for the experts to tell me at what stage of HIV infection can the infected person have symptoms for Guillain Barre Syndrome. I have had all those problems listed under GBS from day 7 onwards. It very well could have been triggered by herpes but I would really want you guys to shed some light on it with a scientific approach, data and from ur past experiences while heling out other people. This is 1 peice of information that can really help me move on. I am taking the liberty of asking u guys as i am not getting propper answers even from the docs. I wonder how they even call themselves doctors....

Thsnks guys...

RapidRod · « **Reply #54 on:** September 04, 2006, 10:22:56 pm »

Is this another one of your self diagnoses?

o_g · « **Reply #55 on:** September 04, 2006, 10:36:40 pm »

Rapid... my feet were burning..i wasnt even able to wear shoes and had to put my feet in water to get some relief. Docs attributed it all to stress and anxiety but i really didnt think so. Sometimes, i even felt pain in my feet just standing upright. If the docs had more knowledge they should have gotten my EMG and lumbar puncture done. Now, as it has been 5 mnths, its slowly fading away it seems but i still do feel. I have spend thousands of dollars and still no decent peice of information from medical community.

To be honest..yes..it is self diagnosis but only after i felt it happening did i do research which brought me to 2 options:
a. reiter's syndrome
b. GBS

& with what i felt, I ate to say but GBS comes real close......[sorry for the post...am trying to control]

thanks

Matty the Damned · « **Reply #56 on:** September 04, 2006, 10:42:00 pm »

Rapid... my feet were burning..i wasnt even able to wear shoes and had to put my feet in water to get some relief. Docs attributed it all to stress and anxiety but i really didnt think so. Sometimes, i even felt pain in my feet just standing upright. If the docs had more knowledge they should have gotten my EMG and lumbar puncture done. Now, as it has been 5 mnths, its slowly fading away it seems but i still do feel. I have spend thousands of dollars and still no decent peice of information from medical community.

You've spent thousands of dollars because you haven't been getting the answers from the medical profession that you want. Science doesn't work that way, my friend. It's not about what you want, but about the facts.

Your doctor(s), presumably highly trained professionals have assessed you and given you their considered opinion. But you think you know better. Maybe it's time for you to see a mental health worker, because I think your real problem is between your ears mate.

We really can't help you anymore. Your needs exceed what this forum can provide.

MtD

RapidRod · « **Reply #57 on:** September 04, 2006, 10:45:20 pm »

An EMG and Lumbar Puncture? ROFL, I wish they would have too. You wouldn't be coming back with more symptoms knowing you might have to have more tests that are more painful than those tests. Go ahead get a doctor to give you those tests, you have no idea what you are in for.

o_g · « **Reply #58 on:** September 05, 2006, 06:48:38 pm »

Hi,

Rapid...with all respect, it seems what i am writing is not sounding serious enough to you. Gullian-Barre syndrome is often associated with a viral infection. It causes prickling, tingling, burning sensation in had and feet and may be other parts of the boy. It is referred to as an auto-immune disease.

Due to the fact that it is an auto-immune disease, don't you think it can cause delay in creation of HIV anti-bodies placing somebody in that 1% late seroconversion category. I am looking at the situation scientifically and would like to hear an expert comment upon it based on scientific facts which I am sure you guys will be more aware than me.

Please trust me when I am saying that the symptoms I had early on really matched GBS and also ongoin...however milder...

Thanks....

RapidRod · « **Reply #59 on:** September 05, 2006, 07:00:43 pm »

It has nothing related to HIV in your case, you are negative. Your results will never change no matter how bad you want to be positive. Yes that is what I said, you are looking for every reason to be positive when you know you are not, from your negative test. Seek out further mental health help to deal with your wanting to be positive. Your actions are that of someone who has real issues that can not be helped on this forum.

Guillain-Barré syndrome can affect anybody. It can strike at any age and both sexes are equally prone to the disorder. The syndrome is rare, however, afflicting only about one person in 100,000. Usually Guillain-Barré occurs a few days or weeks after the patient has had symptoms of a respiratory or gastrointestinal viral infection. Occasionally surgery or vaccinations will trigger the syndrome.

After the first clinical manifestations of the disease, the symptoms can progress over the course of hours, days, or weeks. Most people reach the stage of greatest weakness within the first 2 weeks after symptoms appear, and by the third week of the illness 90 percent of all patients are at their weakest.

Now do you really think you fall into the Guillain-Barré syndrome? I don't think so.

o_g · « **Reply #60 on:** September 07, 2006, 06:41:39 am »

"Your results will never change no matter how bad you want to be positive" - this makes u my best friend for the day :-).

However, you have mentioned gastrointestinal viral infection as a cause for this to happen. I had stomach pains from 4 weeks to 2 months with changes in bowel movement and excessive gas like i never had in my life before. Don't you think these are gasto intestinal issues that can be caused by GBS triggered by HIV. My stomach hurt so bad one night that I went to hospital 1st thing in the morning. Other times for more than a month it felt as of someone is knocking at my stomach walls from within (like thud ..thud..thud..thud). Docs at that time gave me antacids sighting this can be caused as a result of azythromycin, augmentin and all as i had been taking lot of antibiotics. But, that had no effect, These stomach issue came on their own around 25 days after exposure. Went on till 60 days and then subsided on their own....

If u want i can sight u articles where i have read about correlation between HIV,GBS(gastrointestinal system and PN symptoms).

Thanks.....

Ann · « **Reply #61 on:** September 07, 2006, 07:33:43 am »

Huy,

You can cite all the articles you want, but that will NOT change the fact that you have CONCLUSIVELY tested NEGATIVE for hiv. You are hiv negative, period, end of story.

If you've read the Welcome thread like you're supposed to, you will have seen the following in the Posting Guidelines;

Quote

Anyone who continues to post excessively, questioning a conclusive negative result or no-risk situation, will be subject to a four week Time Out (a temporary ban from the Forums). The purpose of a Time Out is to encourage you to seek the face-to-face help we cannot provide on this forum.

This applies to you. You are conclusively hiv negative. Please consider yourself warned.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #62 on:** September 11, 2006, 07:04:21 am »

Hi,

Altough I have't had a p24 specific test, I would like to know if p24 minus HIV-1/2 a/b test is HIV-1 specific only or does it look for HIV-2 also...Thanks

Ann · « **Reply #63 on:** September 11, 2006, 09:00:43 am »

og,

The tests you mention don't look for hiv 1 or 2 - they look for ANTIBODIES or the P24 antigen.

What part of "you are conclusively hiv negative" don't you understand? It's high time you let this go or seek the help of a mental health professional to help you understand your obsession with hiv. You don't have hiv.

This is the last time I'm going to warn you - keep questioning your negative results and you will be given a time out to encourage you to get the help you need. There is nothing more we can do for you here.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #64 on:** September 11, 2006, 09:11:36 am »

hi....

point noted Ann!!! Didn't have the intention of getting u upset. As it is if u have noticed, I have reduced the # of postings i make here now. Please dont get mad...and apologies :-(

As far as p24 antigen, I was confused whether it is created if a person is infected by hiv 1 only or if it is created no matter whether the infection is hiv-1 or hiv-2 as i was under the impression that p24(specific) antigen was only for hiv -1 infection. Anyways...thanks for answering....

take care

o_g · « **Reply #65 on:** September 14, 2006, 12:19:42 pm »

Hi,
I am listing few quotes from this and other web sites. No offene meant:-).

1. Darkfiber has mentioned in BWI7000's post that late sero conversion hasn't been seen since 2000. I understand Darkfiber is eiher from Denmark or Switzerland. Could u pls specify what tests are used there.

2. Calvin Spinks of thebody.org also stated the same thing that seroconversion after 12 weeks is unheard of after 2000.

Keeping in consideration the baove 2 statements, I would like to bring to the notice ofthe experts that 1 of the moderators healingwell.com was diagnosed positive in 2002. His +ve diagnosis trough antibody test was on 113th day. However, he came to know of his status on 81st day through PCR.

Ann, Rapid, Andy, Jonathan, Matty & Sae - its news like this which worries people like me. Didn't CDC keep a record of this particular case as even docs from reputable sites quote them blindfoldedly.

I understand that this forum can not be taken in lieu of mental health care provider's advice but I also understand that you guys are best equipped to advice as far as HIV transmission, testing & living are concerened. I request you not to sideline my concerns. In no ways do I force you guys to answer but I do look forward to them.

It will be good to know what you think about it.

Ann · « **Reply #66 on:** September 14, 2006, 12:27:48 pm »

og,

OK mate, that's it. You've been told repeatedly that you are conclusively hiv negative. You've also been warned about using this site to avoid getting the face-to-face emotional help and support you need. It ends here - for the next four weeks anyway.

Yep, I'm giving you that time out I've been warning you about.

Do not create a new account to get around your time out because I WILL know and you will be banned permanently if I find you here with a new account.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #67 on:** October 29, 2006, 06:31:28 pm »

Dear Experts...

I visit this forum often anf I saw a comment in Jakie's thread today regarding which I would like to ask a questions.
Statement: "The test that has been approved is the APTIMA~ HIV-I RNA Qualitative Assay, an in vitro nucleic acid test (NAT) for the detection of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1)."

Does "APTIMA~ HIV-I RNA Qualitative Assay" imply RNA PCR? If it is so, does it mean RNA PCR is the most sensitive test for early detection of HIV-1 antigen in high risk situation. How does DNA PCR Qualitative compare to RNA PCR when it is done at 2 months.

I do not really want to sight this example but for uderstanding this better I want to ask that if RNA PCR Qualitative is more sensitive test than DNA PCR qualitative, it makes no sense for porn industry to check the actors monthly using DNA PCR. They should be rather using RNA PCR.

Please correct me if my analogy sounds wrong because of my lack of unerstanding. However, it would be really nice if someone can help me understand this...

Thanks n take care

Ann · « **Reply #68 on:** October 29, 2006, 07:06:09 pm »

o_g,

The test in question is a qualitative RNA PCR.

What do you care how the porn industry tests for hiv? Are you planning on becoming the next Long Dong Silver?

There wouldn't be much point in using ANY PCR testing technology at the two month point for diagnostic purposes, as by this time the patient would be already testing positive on the standard ELISA test. Remember, most people seroconvert and test positive by six WEEKS.

If you think you are going to start using this forum to talk about the finer points of hiv testing ad nauseum again, then I think you're going to earn yourself another time out. No kidding.

Ann

RapidRod · « **Reply #69 on:** October 29, 2006, 07:19:42 pm »

Quote

We all spend a lot of time reading each and every forum so what you are posting - the so called "FACTS" are already known to us so no point "sensationalizing" it as it does not help anyone.

o_g, don't you give advise on medhelp? Why is it you continue to come back here to ask questions, which do not have any baring on you? Why come here and post questions when you have and give answers on medhelp?

o_g · « **Reply #70 on:** October 29, 2006, 07:34:07 pm »

Ann: I don't mean to misuse this forum. I was really confused about the PCR's especially as I was adviced to take the DNA PCR test by the doctor looking into my case. It seems he was really not that knowledgable. As far as my plans trying to be the next "Long Dong Silver" - they will need to wait for a while as looking down below the belt still scares me at times

but working on it. Hopefully, I can further pursue my ambition towards LDS in near future. Pray for me;).

Rapid: I do not give advice at medhelp. It is a forum where people discuss what they know. I had an idea previously about RNA PCR being more sensitive for early detection but this information came from a another very knowledgable forum user. That person did provide helpful information but I wanted to also know what experts really feel about it and who better than you guys..

By the way, medhelp is a decent resource for knowledge sharing but the answers there can also be misleading and inconsistent at times. You guys are the best and hold on to what you say(I am not sure if that means to you as much as it means to me

P.S: I really do not think I have done anything wrong to be warned for another time out. C'mon guys...have a heart!!!

Take care

RapidRod · « **Reply #71 on:** October 29, 2006, 07:45:40 pm »

Rapid: I do not give advice at medhelp.

Quote

No risk my friend. As lomg as you were covered up, u got nothing to worry about. If u still remain stressed, get a test done at 4-6 weeks. It will be negative with exposure u have described.

I don't know what you would call it then. Please just don't give advise here.

o_g · « **Reply #72 on:** October 29, 2006, 07:55:20 pm »

Rapid,
As I said that forum encourages knowledge sharing among people going through difficult phases in their lives. I am not an HIV consular and I do not know enough to go about advising people. With the reference you have pasted in your posting, I was just trying to help the person with the anxiety especially after knowing how low risk situation he was mentioning. For heavens sake Rapid - that is a support forum for worried wells. The rules of that forum do not apply in this forum. I very well understand. Keeping that in mind, I haven't done any thread hijacking here till date - forget about advising other forum users here... Trust me, I won't even dare to think on those lines...
Ciao

Ann · « **Reply #73 on:** October 29, 2006, 08:04:58 pm »

Quote

medhelp is a decent resource for knowledge sharing but the answers there can also be misleading and inconsistent at times.

o_g,

Maybe that's because they allow people who don't know what they're talking about to "discuss what they (think) they know". We don't allow that here and that is why our answers are consistent.

If you're still worried about a doctor trying to push PCR testing on you, then you really haven't learned anything here. Going by your first post in this thread, you would have tested conclusively negative way back last JUNE. We have been telling you since AUGUST that you are conclusively hiv negative.

If you want to continue playing hiv mind games, go do it at Medhelp where they don't seem to care about what goes on in their forums. You won't be allowed to do it here.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #74 on:** November 11, 2006, 07:55:21 pm »

Hello experts,

Just a couple of quick queries:

i. Reference - "http://nicd.org/Downloads/HIVTestingManual.doc " link posted by Rapid.

This link is showing window period as 12 weeks. But in a table it shows that between weeks 1 and 12 no antibodies can be detected. Why is it misleading when even experts on this forum agree that most people seroconvert between weeks 4 and 6.

What I mean to say is like take for example New York State - In their HIV testing guidelines they do mention that most people reproduce enough antibodies to be detected by 4 weeks. How can a country's guidelines be so flawed to miss an important stament like that as in the case of the above listed document. It's difficult o imagine how health services and policy makers work there.

ii. Any insight on Eclipse Period. Does it happen in all modes of strasmission. What exactly is it and how long it persists???

Thanks...

RapidRod · « **Reply #75 on:** November 11, 2006, 08:07:57 pm »

Most people develope antibodies by 6 weeks, some may take longer. We've known that and have given the imformation on the people that can take longer to show antibodies. With the new generation tests 3 and 4 the likelyhood of this happening is nil.

o_g · « **Reply #76 on:** November 12, 2006, 06:36:39 pm »

Rapid & Ann,

Please do not get mad with me. I wanted to update you that I haven't been having any more PN for last 2 months as it disappeared after 6 months. However, I have been having sore throat for last 2 months and it seems as if something is stuck in the throat along with white tongue and occasional white cottage cheese like lumps behind uvula. The left side of my neck has been feeling itchy and seems a little swollen (left - south of adam's apple - seems like a knot appearing there). I am getting a feeling that this could be TB. I have heard that TB as an opportunistic infection can happen early in an HIV infection. I think I know that I need to go see a doctor but the sequence of symptoms happening to me without any break is just driving me nuts.

I did take your advice and have been constantly in touch with my shrink as I call him and talk to him 2-3 times a week for almost a few hours. I really do not know what to do and how to proceed. It just seems like something or other is attacking my body and for some reason my immune system is unable to fight it off.

I am writing this as I know that you guys are fighting with this infection continuously day in and day out and maybe at some point of time when you got infected would have been in the same boat as me. I am extremely sorry for writing like this in this forum but I am indeed feeling very lonely and fearful and probably just need some kind of support....

Take care..

RapidRod · « **Reply #77 on:** November 12, 2006, 06:50:52 pm »

TB in not an early sign of HIV infection nor do you get OI's in early HIV infection. As long as you've been on this website if you had TB you would have know it by now. See your doctor for any symptoms it would be unrelated to HIV.

o_g · « **Reply #78 on:** November 17, 2006, 06:23:46 pm »

1 stupid question - need little re-assurance
my test was on 84th day which mean 83 days + 6 or 7 hrs. Is that ok or i need to re test? Also my throat has been hurting for past 2 months and it feels as if something is stuck in the throat.

RapidRod · « **Reply #79 on:** November 17, 2006, 06:36:42 pm »

See an ENT doctor for your throat. You are HIV negative.

o_g · « **Reply #80 on:** November 26, 2006, 04:56:06 pm »

Hi experts,

Can you tell me at what stage of HIV disease a person can develop esophagitis.Is it possible to develop esophagitis during the 1st year after being infected by HIV?

Thanks....

Ann · « **Reply #81 on:** November 26, 2006, 05:05:37 pm »

o,

You are conclusively hiv negative. There is nothing more we can do for you here.

You need to see your doctor about these concerns of yours and to help you on your way, I'm giving you an eight-week time out as this is your second. Do not create a new account to get around your time out because if you do, you will be permanently banned.

Ann

o_g · « **Reply #82 on:** March 04, 2007, 07:10:40 pm »

Dear friends,

I am trying to deal with things much better and am constantly in touch with my psychiatrist over the phone. At the same time, I find it extremely hard to stay away from these sites. At times, I feel good and other times get back to dumps so the anxiety graph still touches peak at times.

I do not intend to behave irrationally but I have certain questions. I call AIDS action hotline in massahusettes and they told me 99% people test positive by 6 weeks and they consider it conclusive. They said the test they use is ELISA which is the same world wide. People who do not sero-convert by 6 weeks have either undergone organ transplant, or on active chemotherapy or have some autoimmune disorder.

1. Now, today over at medhelp, a person's thread made my worries come back regarding autoimmune disorders as he mentioned gullian barre syndrome getting kicked off as a result of hiv infection. Can that somehow delay antibody production? I am specifically interested in an answer to this question as the symptoms he listed were/are felt by me at times.

2. Also, from my very 1st post it was apparent that I did get some infection which was hinted by my high WBC, high neutrophils and low lymphocytes. Can those number put me under not "healthy/average individuals" category which turn positive by 6 weeks as I still have plenty symptoms.

Doctors at thebody.com at times still call it a possiility of converting till 6 or more months and there are reference cases posted also over there. I am not questioning your expertise but just trying to get some answers to sort out my head.

All I want to see is logic where things add up to help me move on. I question doctors and knowledgable people but to no avail and in the end I am just left wondering if people really know much about HIV.

Your replies will be helpful and I promise not to overburden this forum.
Thanks...

Ann · « **Reply #83 on:** March 04, 2007, 08:05:29 pm »

o

1. No GB will NOT delay antibody production.

2. NO. The Mass. hotline already told you who MIGHT seroconvert later.

It's up to you who you want to believe. However, you will NOT be permitted to go over and over and over this all over again. All your latest questions (aside from the GB question) have already been repeatedly answered in this thread. Read it and re-read it again if you have to, but we are not going to keep answering you again and again.

I would suggest that you start seeing a therapist face-to-face. There is nothing more we can do for you here. If you carry on again like you did before, you will be permanently banned as you have already had two time outs.

Ann

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