Finding out when you're ill

‘Late diagnosis’ means that you have tested positive for HIV after the virus has already begun to damage your immune system. 

If you’re diagnosed at this point then you might feel overwhelmed by all of the information given to you, but remember that taking care of yourself is your number one priority. It is natural to look back over what might have prevented your infection but the most important thing now is to make sure you stay well.

You might already feel unwell and many people who receive a late diagnosis are told that they have symptoms of an opportunistic infection. Although this can be serious and can impact your quality of life, you can work closely with your doctor to find the best combination of medication for you to help your immune system.

You are not alone – the Health Protection Agency states that half of all HIV positive adults in the UK received a late diagnosis.

You don’t know how you will react to a positive diagnosis until you are in that situation, so take time to understand what is happening and ask your doctor or health adviser as many questions as you need to be able to understand your diagnosis and what to do next.

You don’t know how you will react to a positive diagnosis until you are in that situation, so take time to understand what is happening and ask your doctor or health adviser as many questions as you need to be able to understand your diagnosis and what to do next. HIV medication is very good and although your immune system will already have been damaged it can be possible to repair a lot of the damage the virus has done if you take special care of your health. Following your medication instructions is especially important if you’re late diagnosed.Being told that you have HIV can be an emotional, life-changing event and will give you much to think about, but a late diagnosis usually means that you must adapt to your new situation quickly.

Being told that you have HIV can be an emotional, life-changing event and will give you much to think about, but a late diagnosis usually means that you must adapt to your new situation quickly. There are steps you can take to ensure your general health is as good as it can be so that HIV cannot take advantage of your already-weakened immune system. It is also important to consider your sex life and how you can best protect yourself and your partner(s) from any further risks.