Just discharged from hospital
Submitted by Robert on Mon, 09/11/2006 - 5:10pm.
I was just in hospital for an "acute viral illness". The whole time I was in, my illness was always refered to as being caused by an "unknown virus", but litterally at the moment of being discharged the covering doc disclosed that my admitting diagnosis was "query acute HIV seroconversion syndrome". Now I am just devastated and upset that no-one mentioned HIV until the moment I was kicked out the door. I don't know if I should tell my family, or even if I believe it myself.
I am still to sick and tired to take on much more...any suggestions as what to do next?
Just discharged from Hospital
Dear Robert,
It sounds like your dealing with a lot right now. Posting on the website was a good first step in getting the help you need. As for next steps, I think it would be good to call your regular doctor and see if your file from the hospital can be sent to their office and make an appointment so your doctor can go over the tests that were done in the hospital with you. To confirm a positive HIV diagnosis you should ask to see your results from an HIV sero-conversion test. Your doctor should offer you post test counseling and to refer you to an infectious disease specialist (an HIV specialist) if your test is positive. People who are newly diagnosed usually have a whole array of questions they want to ask. There are many different agencies and places that HIV-positive people can gain support However, the key to staying sane while dealing with such a complex issue is not getting overwhelmed with all the information out there, and to get good information. For instance, there are many websites that focus on AIDS, but not all of them give accurate information.
To get some support and accurate information about what you can do next, you may also find it helpful to come and talk to a Positive Wellness Counselor or one of the Education staff here at AIDS Vancouver Island. Please feel free to drop in and make an appointment with one of us, or call 384-2366. Our address in Victoria is:1601 Blanshard Street (corner of Blanshard and Cormorant, same block as Serious Coffee). Our hours are 9-5, Monday to Friday, and additional evening hours for our needle exchange.