HIV, STI/STD Test, Counseling And Treatment In Kochi​

Kochi, a port city in the southern state of Kerala, is renowned for its rich history, diverse culture, and scenic beauty. It is home to several renowned educational institutions such as the Cochin University of Science and Technology and the Indian Institute of Technology, which attract students from all over the country. 

 

The incidence of cases of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) and HIV in Kochi has been inching up steadily over the past few years. This issue requires attention and effective management to prevent the spread of infections and promote the well-being of individuals in the community. It is crucial to prioritize sexual health alongside other medical facilities. The need for reliable and affordable HIV testing, HIV counseling, and STD testing cannot be overstated. 

DrSafeHands offers convenient HIV testing centers in Kochi, ensuring that you always have an HIV test near you and that people have access to trustworthy medical facilities for sexual health issues. It is essential to break the stigma around sexual health and promote open discussions to raise awareness and encourage people to prioritize their sexual health. With reliable STI testing, HIV Testing, and HIV counseling, people can take necessary precautions and seek medical intervention if needed, promoting a healthier and safer community overall. 

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a retrovirus. HIV enters a host's body and multiplies in the cells, gradually weakening the person's immune system over time. Typically, HIV targets the white blood cells responsible for fighting diseases, infections, and illnesses, and if left untreated, it can destroy these cells, severely damaging the immune system. However, HIV testing enables individuals to learn their HIV status early on, allowing them to take necessary steps to combat the virus. If you believe you’ve had a risky encounter, you can opt for online HIV testing in Kochi where a medical representative visits your house for the collection of a blood sample or you can undergo HIV Testing at an HIV testing Center near you.  

The Early Detection HIV Test looks for HIV RNA in the bloodstream and thereby identifies the virus at an early stage compared to other tests. The HIV RNA PCR Test, i.e. the early detection HIV Test has an accuracy rate of 95-99% if administered 9-11 days after potential exposure. 

Other tests like HIV Testing 4th Generation can also help you determine your HIV status with a high level of accuracy. If you are HIV positive, your medical practitioner, through your HIV Testing center in Kochi, will determine the next course of action which usually involves beginning ART Therapy. 

 

Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) is the standard treatment for people with HIV. ART involves medication that helps manage the HIV infection and substantially reduces the risk of spreading the virus to others. It does not cure HIV, but it allows the immune system to recover and generate more useful white blood cells. ART involves a combination of drugs that suppress HIV replication and help increase the potency of the medication. ART stops HIV from rapidly progressing and allows the immune system to recover. ART helps reduce the virus's load in the body, making it less likely to pass on the virus to others. ART may help the body's immune system become strong enough to fend off infections and some HIV-related cancers. 

Viral Suppression occurs when a person's HIV viral load is less than 200 copies of HIV per mm of blood. This means that the virus is present in only trace amounts in the blood and is hardly detectable, which is also known as an 'undetectable viral load.' Achieving viral suppression is a critical goal of HIV treatment. Using ART, most patients can reach a stage of viral suppression in about six months. Once a person reaches viral suppression, the virus is no longer a major threat to their immune system, and there is a reduced risk of spreading the virus to others. 

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) are infections that are primarily transmitted through sexual contact. These infections can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or parasites and can cause various health complications if left untreated. Some common STIs include chlamydia, gonorrhea, herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV) & syphilis. While some STIs may cause visible symptoms, many people may not experience any symptoms at all, making it essential to undergo STD testing and STI testing for men and women regularly.  

STDs can be prevented by using condoms or dental dams during sexual activity and by practicing safe sex. STD testing, early detection and treatment of STDs can help prevent the spread of the infection and reduce the risk of long-term health complications. 

DrSafeHands has multiple HIV Test centers in Kochi and nearby locations like Kozhikode so there is always an availability of an HIV test near you. If you are unable to visit the HIV Test Centers, there is another convenient option of online HIV testing in Kochi. Here, you can get tested for any of the HIV tests like HIV Testing 4th Generation or the HIV RNA PCR Test from the comfort of your home. Online HIV testing is safe, confidential, and convenient. You can also choose to undergo STI testing and STD testing at home by booking a home visit by a qualified medical representative for sample collection. 

 

Don’t let stigma stop you from getting tested for HIV or STIs in Kochi. Medical support and help are available all around you for any issues you may have. Reach out to qualified and well-trained medical professionals around you and get yourself tested today! 

 

Get more information on HIV and STIs at The National Aids Control Organisation (NACO): http://naco.gov.in/ 

 

Q - What is the goal of ART in managing HIV?​

A - Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is used to suppress the replication of HIV in the body and boost the immune system to prevent further damage. The goal of ART is to achieve viral suppression, where the HIV viral load in the bloodstream is reduced to an undetectable level. 

 

Q - Can ART cure HIV?​

A - ART cannot cure HIV, but it can significantly slow down the progression of the virus and keep it under control. With consistent treatment, viral suppression can be achieved, leading to a significant improvement in quality of life and a reduction in the risk of transmission.​

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Q - How long does it take to achieve viral suppression on ART?​

A - The time taken to achieve viral suppression varies from person to person and depends on factors such as the stage of the disease, the individual's overall health, and the type of medication used. In general, most people achieve viral suppression within six months of starting 

treatment.