{"id":47061,"date":"2025-12-03T15:33:43","date_gmt":"2025-12-03T15:33:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.mediconanet.pt\/?post_type=product&#038;p=47061"},"modified":"2026-02-18T12:22:29","modified_gmt":"2026-02-18T12:22:29","slug":"hiv","status":"publish","type":"product","link":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/produto\/hiv\/","title":{"rendered":"HIV &#8211; Diagn\u00f3stico"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Suspect HIV? Consult a doctor online in complete privacy.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The doctor assesses your case, indicates the appropriate analyses and, if confirmed, the right treatment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Sintomas mais comuns para a hero section:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Persistent or intermittent fever<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fatigue or prolonged tiredness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enlarged lymph nodes (neck, armpits or groin)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unintentional weight loss<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Intense night sweats<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rashes or spots on the skin<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muscle or joint pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequent or prolonged diarrhoea<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>What is HIV? <\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>HIV<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or <\/span><b>Human Immunodeficiency Virus<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, is a <\/span><b>sexually transmitted infection (STI)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> which affects the immune system, weakening the body's ability to fight infections and diseases.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The virus mainly attacks <\/span><b>CD4 T lymphocytes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, These cells are essential for immune defence, and their progressive decline can lead, without treatment, to <\/span><b>acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HIV is transmitted through <\/span><b>unprotected sexual contact<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, from <\/span><b>sharing syringes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, from <\/span><b>transfusion of contaminated blood<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (now rare) or <\/span><b>transmission from mother to baby<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> during pregnancy, labour or breastfeeding.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the biggest challenges of HIV is that <\/span><b>many infected people have no symptoms in the early stages<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the first few days or weeks after exposure, mild flu-like symptoms may appear, such as fever, fatigue, muscle aches or enlarged lymph nodes. After this phase, the virus can remain <\/span><b>latent and asymptomatic for several years<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, while continuing to damage the immune system.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Without diagnosis and treatment, the infection can develop into <\/span><b>AIDS<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, This is characterised by the appearance of opportunistic infections (such as pneumonia, oral candidiasis, tuberculosis or chronic viral infections) and a marked reduction in immunity.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With advances in medicine, HIV is today <\/span><b>treatable and controllable<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The <\/span><b>antiretroviral treatments (ART)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> prevent the virus from multiplying, maintain an undetectable viral load and <\/span><b>eliminate the risk of sexual transmission (undetectable = non-transmissible)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Early diagnosis and regular medical follow-up are key to ensuring a healthy life. <\/span><b>long, healthy and quality life<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, It also prevents transmission to other people.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Symptoms of HIV<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The symptoms of <\/span><b>HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> vary according to the stage of the infection and each person's immune response.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> In the early stages, HIV can <\/span><b>no visible symptoms<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, This facilitates its transmission during sexual contact or by other means, without the infected person realising it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When manifestations appear, they are divided into <\/span><b>distinct clinical phases<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">:<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>Acute phase (2 to 4 weeks after infection)<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At this early stage, the virus multiplies rapidly in the body and can cause symptoms similar to mild flu or mononucleosis.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> The most common signs include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Persistent fever<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muscle and joint pain<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Enlarged lymph nodes (neck, armpits or groin)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Extreme tiredness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sore throat<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Skin rashes (reddish patches on the trunk)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headache<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Nausea or mild diarrhoea<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">These symptoms usually disappear within a few days or weeks, but the virus remains active in the body.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>Asymptomatic (latent) phase<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After the acute phase, HIV enters a period of <\/span><b>clinical latency<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which can last several years.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">During this time, the person <\/span><b>no symptoms<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, But the virus continues to multiply and slowly weakens the immune system.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Without diagnosis and treatment, this stage can develop into an advanced infection.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>Advanced symptomatic phase (AIDS)<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When the immune system is severely compromised, the following occurs <\/span><b>opportunistic infections<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and more serious complications, such as<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Significant, unintentional weight loss<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Persistent fever or intense night sweats<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chronic diarrhoea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Extreme tiredness and generalised weakness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Recurrent infections (by fungi, bacteria or viruses)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Persistent cough or difficulty breathing<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Injuries to the mouth, skin or internal organs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Serious illnesses such as pneumonia, tuberculosis or certain types of cancer (e.g. Kaposi's sarcoma)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even when it doesn't cause symptoms <\/span><b>HIV can remain active and be transmitted to partners<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That's why it's essential to realise <\/span><b>regular screening tests<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and start <\/span><b>antiretroviral treatment (ART)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as soon as possible.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With proper treatment, the viral load can become <\/span><b>undetectable<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which means that the virus <\/span><b>not sexually transmitted<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular medical follow-up is essential to keep the infection under control and ensure a long and healthy life.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Causes of HIV<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is transmitted mainly through the <\/span><b>contact with infected body fluids<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, such as <\/span><b>blood, semen, vaginal secretions, rectal fluids and breast milk<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Transmission occurs when these fluids come into contact with <\/span><b>injured mucous membranes or tissues<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, or are injected directly into the bloodstream.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The main forms of HIV transmission include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Unprotected sexual contact (vaginal, anal or oral)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with an infected person;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Sharing needles, syringes or other sharp materials<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> contaminated;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Transmission from mother to baby<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> during pregnancy, labour or breastfeeding;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Transfusions of contaminated blood<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (very rare these days, due to the strict control of blood banks).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Unlike other infections, the <\/span><b>HIV is not transmitted<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> through <\/span><b>casual contact<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Hugs, kisses or handshakes;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Coughing, sneezing or contact with sweat and tears;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sharing cutlery, glasses, toilets, towels, swimming pools or insect bites.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Infection almost always occurs during <\/span><b>direct contact with infected body fluids<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, where <\/span><b>use of condoms and sterilised material<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> the most effective prevention measures.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Other forms of prevention include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Correct and consistent condom use<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in all sexual relations;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP and PEP)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in people with a higher risk of infection;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Do not share syringes, needles or sharp instruments<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Regular screening for HIV and other STIs<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in sexually active people.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Como diagnosticamos o HIV? (H2)<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The diagnosis of <\/span><b>HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is done through <\/span><b>specific laboratory tests<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> that detect the presence of <\/span><b>antibodies<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and\/or <\/span><b>antigens<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> of the virus in the blood.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> These tests make it possible to identify the infection even in the early stages, before symptoms appear, guaranteeing early diagnosis and timely treatment.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The process is organised to ensure <\/span><b>clinical rigour, security and total confidentiality:<\/b><\/p>\n<h4><b>1. First online consultation:<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of our doctors will assess your symptoms, medical history and possible risk exposure (such as unprotected sex or contact with infected blood).<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Based on this assessment, the doctor may recommend appropriate laboratory tests to confirm or exclude HIV infection.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The most commonly used tests are<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"list-style-type: none;\">\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 4th generation test (HIV-1\/HIV-2 antigen\/antibody) detects infection early, from 2 to 4 weeks after exposure.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Confirmatory test (Western Blot or quantitative PCR) confirms the presence of the virus and determines the viral load.<\/span><b><br \/>\n<\/b><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h4><b>2. Carrying out the analyses:<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The patient goes to the laboratory of their choice to have blood taken.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It is not compulsory to take the test in a specific laboratory, as long as it uses validated methods for detecting HIV.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>3. Receipt of results:<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As soon as the laboratory makes the results available, they are sent digitally and securely directly to the patient and to the M\u00e9dico na Net doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n<h4><b>4. Second consultation (if necessary):<\/b><\/h4>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the test confirms the presence of HIV, the patient makes a new medical appointment online.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> At this stage, the doctor:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explain the result and its clinical significance;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clarifies doubts about prognosis and prevention;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescribes the appropriate antiretroviral treatment (ART) and monitors clinical progress;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Indicate complementary tests, such as viral load and CD4 lymphocyte count, for regular monitoring.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This complete process allows for a quick, safe and doctor-guided diagnosis, without unnecessary waiting and with total discretion.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Infec\u00e7\u00f5es assintom\u00e1ticas: o risco invis\u00edvel do HIV:<\/b><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">One of the most worrying features of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is that many infected people have no symptoms in the early stages.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For months or even years, the virus can remain active in the body, gradually weakening the immune system and being passed on to partners without the person knowing they are infected.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>The absence of symptoms does not mean that the virus has disappeared, HIV continues to multiply in the cells of the immune system and can cause progressive damage if left untreated.<\/b><\/p>\n<p><b>Even when it doesn't cause visible signs, HIV can evolve silently and cause damage:<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Decrease in the number of CD4 lymphocytes, weakening the body's defences<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Greater vulnerability to opportunistic infections (such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, oral candidiasis or persistent herpes)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Weight loss, fatigue and night sweats in later stages<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increased risk of certain types of cancer (such as lymphoma or Kaposi's sarcoma)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Continuous transmission of the virus to sexual partners, especially when there is no antiretroviral treatment<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">HIV can remain <\/span><b>latent<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for long periods of time, acting as a silent but active infection.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">That's why <\/span><b>regular screening<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is essential in order to identify the infection early and initiate <\/span><b>antiretroviral treatment (ART)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which controls the virus and prevents its transmission.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With the right treatment, it's possible to achieve the state <\/span><b>\u201cundetectable = untransmittable\u201d (I=I)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, This means that people with HIV who are on effective therapy <\/span><b>does not transmit the virus sexually<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Regular medical follow-up and early treatment are essential to ensure a healthy life. <\/span><b>long, healthy and hassle-free life<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, In addition to protecting partners and the community.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Como funciona a consulta para o HIV (H2):<\/b><\/p>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Book your appointment online:<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Choose the day and time of your video appointment from the calendar and fill in the initial medical form with your health information and any risk exposures.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Make the payment:<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Complete your payment simply and securely - <\/span><b>consulta m\u00e9dica 35 \u20ac<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Personalised medical assessment:<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> During the consultation, the doctor analyses the symptoms, the medical history and possible risk factors (such as unprotected sexual contact or sharing piercing material).<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> If necessary, recommend <\/span><b>specific analyses<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">such as:<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>4th generation test (HIV-1\/HIV-2 antigen\/antibody)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, This allows infection to be detected between 2 and 4 weeks after exposure;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Confirmatory test (quantitative PCR)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which measures the <\/span><b>viral load<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and confirms the presence of the virus.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ol>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Monitoring and treatment:<\/b><b><br \/>\n<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the result confirms HIV infection, the doctor makes a second appointment to <\/span><b>explain the results<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, <\/span><b>clarify doubts<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and <\/span><b>start antiretroviral treatment (ART)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> more appropriate.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At this stage, monitoring includes <\/span><b>periodic monitoring of viral load and CD4 lymphocytes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, This ensures the effectiveness of the treatment and prevents complications.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><b>FAQ\u2019s :<\/b><\/p>\n<h3><b>What is HIV?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><b>HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a <\/span><b>sexually transmitted infection (STI)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> which weakens the immune system by affecting the defence cells called <\/span><b>CD4 T lymphocytes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Without treatment, the progressive decrease in these cells can lead to <\/span><b>acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With antiretroviral treatment, it is possible to control the virus, maintain good health and prevent transmission to other people.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Can I have HIV without showing symptoms?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. Many people with HIV <\/span><b>no symptoms in the early stages<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After infection, there may be an asymptomatic phase lasting several months or years, during which the virus remains active and can be transmitted to sexual partners.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The absence of symptoms <\/span><b>does not mean that the virus has disappeared<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>What are the most common symptoms of HIV?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Symptoms vary depending on the stage of the infection:<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Acute phase (2 to 4 weeks after contact):<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fever and intense tiredness<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Muscle pain and enlarged lymph nodes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sore throat and skin rashes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Headaches and night sweats<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Latent phase (asymptomatic):<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">No visible symptoms, but the virus continues to multiply<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><b>Advanced stage (AIDS):<\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Significant weight loss<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Persistent fever or prolonged diarrhoea<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Opportunistic infections (such as pneumonia or oral candidiasis)<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Extreme tiredness and intense night sweats<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>How does remote HIV screening work?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After booking an appointment online and filling in the medical questionnaire, the doctor will assess your case and may recommend <\/span><b>specific laboratory tests<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>4th generation test (HIV-1\/HIV-2 antigen\/antibody)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> detects infection early;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Confirmatory test (quantitative PCR)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> confirms the diagnosis and measures the viral load.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Analyses can be carried out at <\/span><b>laboratory of your choice<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, provided that it uses validated methods for HIV detection.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Is the screening confidential?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. All data and results are treated with <\/span><b>total confidentiality<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, in accordance with <\/span><b>GDPR<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and health data protection regulations.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clinical information <\/span><b>are not shared with third parties<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> without their consent.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>What happens if you test positive for HIV?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If the result confirms the infection, the doctor performs a <\/span><b>second online consultation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explain the result and its clinical significance;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Start <\/span><b>antiretroviral treatment (ART)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> appropriate;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Prescribe complementary tests (viral load and CD4 count);<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Clarify doubts about prevention and health care.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>Do I need to inform my sexual partners?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. It is important to inform recent sexual partners so that they can also be tested and, if necessary, start treatment.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The doctor can advise you on <\/span><b>how to communicate this information safely and responsibly<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Can HIV be cured?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Currently, <\/span><b>HIV has no cure<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, but it is <\/span><b>fully controllable<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> with treatment.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A <\/span><b>antiretroviral therapy (ART)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> allows the viral load to be reduced to undetectable levels, which means that the person <\/span><b>does not transmit the virus sexually (undetectable = non-transmissible)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><b>Do I need to repeat the HIV test?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes. It is recommended to repeat the test whenever there is a risk of exposure.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> In general:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After unprotected sex, you should get tested <\/span><b>from 30 days<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> (immunological window);<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sexually active people should be screened <\/span><b>at least once a year<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">;<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Groups at higher risk (multiple partners, injecting drug use, etc.) should be tested <\/span><b>every 3 to 6 months<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><b>What if I have alarm bells?<\/b><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you present <\/span><b>persistent fever, marked weight loss, recurrent infections, night sweats or extreme tiredness<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, you should look for <\/span><b>face-to-face medical care<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> quickly.<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><br \/>\n<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Teleconsultation <\/span><b>does not replace emergency care<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> in serious situations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><b>Equipa m\u00e9dica <\/b><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dr Igor Faria<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dr Mafalda Morais<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dr Jo\u00e3o Rebelo de Sousa<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Suspeita de HIV? Consulte um m\u00e9dico online com total privacidade. O m\u00e9dico avalia o seu caso, indica as an\u00e1lises adequadas e, se confirmado, o tratamento certo. Sintomas mais comuns para a hero section: Febre persistente ou intermitente Fadiga ou cansa\u00e7o prolongado Aumento dos g\u00e2nglios (pesco\u00e7o, axilas ou virilha) Perda de peso n\u00e3o intencional Suores noturnos [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":36378,"template":"","meta":[],"product_brand":[],"product_cat":[195,64],"product_tag":[201,196],"class_list":{"0":"post-47061","1":"product","2":"type-product","3":"status-publish","4":"has-post-thumbnail","6":"product_cat-ist","7":"product_cat-saude-sexual","8":"product_tag-hiv","9":"product_tag-ist","11":"first","12":"instock","13":"shipping-taxable","14":"purchasable","15":"product-type-simple"},"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product\/47061","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/product"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/36378"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=47061"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"product_brand","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_brand?post=47061"},{"taxonomy":"product_cat","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_cat?post=47061"},{"taxonomy":"product_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/staging.mediconanet.pt\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/product_tag?post=47061"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}