Discussion Just found out I have HIV

[nigelhernandez]

Three weeks ago, I just found out that I was diagnosed with HIV after having flu-like symptoms and subsequently getting a blood test. To say I'm devastated is an understatement. But then again, I should have been more careful and not had NSA sex with four people this year. My GP called me in for a chat and told me that it's treatable but I'll need to be on ARV meds for the rest of my life along with get regular checkups

He gave me a script for an antiretroviral but I now even more depressed cause I'm broke and can't afford it. It's €30 per month. I'm wondering if there's anything cheaper because I've just lost my job due to COVID-19 and only using savings for rent/food. I know though that I need to get treated or it'll have serious effects in years to come with a compromised immune system.

Any suggestions? I don't want to go untreated and die a painful death.

 

[HannibalLector]

Hug you, sweetheart

 

[Infinite Conscious]

Ok, it's not the end of the world, but you do need those medicines.

I was diagnosed 10 years ago, my entire world crushed down on me when I heard the news... I asked the doctor sitting across from me "How much time do I have?" She said "5 years, but... " She obviously wasn't a specialist.

There are ARV medicines that you can live with for decades... In the past 10 years, I was taking 2/3 appx. or even 60% of what they prescribed, probably intentionally to fasten the process of dying. Didn't work. Never had a single problem after i started the meds. Regular check-ups should be done every 6 months, I go once in 2-3 years.

You mention EUR and not dollars, so I suppose you are from Europe.
Don't all, or at least most, European counties have social health care for all?
My meds are paid by the state, or I would never be able to buy them myself.

 

[endergames]

I'm so sorry that contracted HIV. HIV is highly treatable now; it's simply about controlling it now. I'm confident that there's a governmental prescription support program for you!

 

[nigelhernandez]

Ok, it's not the end of the world, but you do need those medicines.

I was diagnosed 10 years ago, my entire world crushed down on me when I heard the news... I asked the doctor sitting across from me "How much time do I have?" She said "5 years, but... " She obviously wasn't a specialist.

There are ARV medicines that you can live with for decades... In the past 10 years, I was taking 2/3 appx. or even 60% of what they prescribed, probably intentionally to fasten the process of dying. Didn't work. Never had a single problem after i started the meds.

You mention EUR and not dollars, so I suppose you are from Europe.
Don't all, or at least most, European counties have social health care for all?
My meds are paid by the state, or I would never be able to buy them myself.

No. I don't have health insurance so it doesn't cover it.

 

[Commitmentphile101]

That's rough, Im really sorry. Its tough to say without knowing what country you are in and what their healthcare is like

 

[Ghost2211]

Your doctor or insurance should be able to help you find ways of getting antivirals cheap or free. There is usually high incentive to help people get the antivirals so as to control community spread.

HIV is not what it used to be. I'm sorry you're having to deal with this. You might want to consider finding a support group, so you can get support adjusting from people who have walked the same road.

 

[GoodPersonEffed]

You've said you live in Ireland. Prescriptions are €1.50 each for a monthly maximum of €19.50.

I would imagine you can eat €20 less of food a month and get the prescriptions.

 

[StellaArtoix]

Three weeks ago, I just found out that I was diagnosed with HIV after having flu-like symptoms and subsequently getting a blood test. To say I'm devastated is an understatement. But then again, I should have been more careful and not had NSA sex with four people this year. My GP called me in for a chat and told me that it's treatable but I'll need to be on ARV meds for the rest of my life along with get regular checkups

He gave me a script for an antiretroviral but I now even more depressed cause I'm broke and can't afford it. It's €30 per month. I'm wondering if there's anything cheaper because I've just lost my job due to COVID-19 and only using savings for rent/food. I know though that I need to get treated or it'll have serious effects in years to come with a compromised immune system.

Any suggestions? I don't want to go untreated and die a painful death.

Hey there, if I was you I would go to your nearest HIV clinic as they are more likely to have the resources available to help you in this situation. I dont know what country your from but people with HIV where I live can go to a specialist HIV clinic for ongoing treatment, access to HIV meds, Drs etc There are alot of people that cant afford retroviral meds on their own and these clinics are often better set up to help you. I know its a scary thing to hear when you just been diagnosed, but remember this is a very easily managed condition these days. I have a few friends with HIV who have been living with the condition for many years without any problems at all. Your going to be ok, but absolutely its scary when you first hear those words. Hugs to you :)