HIV saliva testing
HIV tests usually involve drawing blood from a vein to test for antigens. Antigens are substances on the HIV virus itself and are usually detectable — a positive test — in the blood within a few weeks after exposure to HIV.
Antibodies are produced by your immune system when it’s exposed to HIV. It can take weeks to months for antibodies to become detectable. The combination antigen/antibody tests can take two to six weeks after exposure to become positive.
A saliva HIV test checks for these antibodies. Antibody tests can take three to twelve weeks after you are exposed to become positive.
HIV nucleic acid tests (NATs)
These tests look for the actual virus in the blood (viral load). NAT will be the first test to become positive after exposure to HIV in a few weeks.
Your doctor should be able to recommend the right test for you.
Tests for complications
Your doctor may check for other infections or complication, including urinary tract infections, cervical and anal cancer, STIs, Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B or Hepatitis C virus infection, liver or kidney damage. Toxoplasmosis and cytomegalovirus.
Lifestyle and home remedies
In order to stay healthy longer, along with receiving medical treatment, you need to, among other things, get the right vaccinations including for Human Papilloma Virus, hepatitis A and hepatitis B. You have to eat healthy foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, avoid raw meat, eggs and raw sea food. You need to take care with companion animals like cat feces as they cause toxoplasmosis, reptiles carry salmonella and birds carry histoplasmosis and Cryptococcus.
Alternative remedies include dietary supplements that boost the immune system or counteract side effects of anti-HIV drugs. Always check with your doctor before taking supplements or alternative therapies to ensure there is no medical interactions with the HIV drugs. Some helpful supplements may include probiotics, certain amino acids, vitamins and minerals and neuropathy medications.
Some harmful supplements may include garlic supplements (occasional garlic in food appears to be safe), red yeast rice extract and St John’s wort. They are dangerous because of the drug interactions they have with the HIV drugs, affecting their effectiveness.
Calming mind-body practices like yoga, massages and meditation reduces stress, provides relaxation and improves the quality of life.