So worried I feel sick, please help

I stupidly had unprotected sex with a female 6 years ago, first and last time I have ever done so. Soon after I got flu symptoms and swollen lymph gland in my groin. I went to the doctor and explained and the doctor gave me some antibiotics and sent me on my way. He did not test me for anything. 

A few days later I also experienced some leakage from my penis but once the antibiotics kicked in all the symptoms went away.

I didn't give it much thought until recently when I read that my original symptoms are all linked to HIV, I have felt sick ever since. I am so worried that all this time I have got HIV and left in untreated because my doctor didn't mention it at the time.

Please can someone give me some advice.

Thanks so much

Hi Steve, I know from experience this is a scary situation, but try not to worry. The symptoms of HIV are the same as Many, Many other infections - or for that matter the same the common cold. The only way to know for sure is to be tested by qualified health care. You can make an appointment with your Doctor - or if you prefer anonymity, simply go to an std clinic. Many of us follow up regulary, just to be sure. Also remember, try not to diagnose your self from reading the internet, because it may cause you alot of needless worry over hypothetical symptoms. For instance many of us have experienced swollen lymph nodes, headache, diarrhea, and sore throat all at the same time, but it had nothing to do with HIV. So try to stay chill and schedule a test today. Good luck and always play safe.

Thank you for replying Matt, I can't stop feeling sick thinking about it.

Do you think the Doctor just couldn't be bothered to test me for anything? He must have thought HIV was extremely unlikely otherwise he would have wouldn't he?

I am so scared to get tested because if I do have it, it has been 6 years. That basically means I'm in bad shape right?

Steve, that is a good point. If the Doctor saw any red flags he most likely would have advised a test, but keep in mind that noone can guess or know for sure without being tested.

Like I said, I know how this type of worry can consume a person, so do not live with this fear - schedule a time to be tested today.

As for me personally , there have been a few times I was certain that I would test positive for HIV,  because of a sexual activity I had done - and with the symptoms I was having. However, each time I tested negative... Point is, the symptoms can be from anything. I know from experience it is better to get the facts.

Until then, Try not to worry.. I'd like to know the outcome. Good Luck.. Matt

 

Thanks Matt, I am going to get tested tomorrow at a walk in clinic so I guess I will know in a week or two. I'll let you know the result. You are right by saying hat the only way to stop this consuming me is to get it tested and find out, either way I am in a better situation than my current one.

Steve that is good news about getting your follow up test. The blood test usually takes 1 - 2 weeks for results (it's the most reliable) - so try not to be too anxious. I am looking forward to hearing back soon. Best of luck. Matt