Is HIV detectable once a person shows the early symptoms?

[ryanreyners]

Hi guys just a brief question regarding symptoms of ARS and the 4th generation laboratory test. If one was in actual fact displaying the real symptoms of ARS (lets say between 10 - 14 days post exposure), is it at this point where testing would be able to detect the virus? Or may symptoms be present without detectable levels of the virus?

I understand that the window period should be at least 4 weeks, but for one with potential symptoms early on who may not have the opportunity to test at a later date, is it worth testing at this point to determine if these symptoms are related to HIV?

[Claire_MHModerator]

Not everyone experiences ARS, and not everyone experiences ARS in the same way.  If your condom split, you should get tested, regardless of symptoms.

[CurfewX]

If you had ARS you would be HIGHLY likely to test positive for HIV.   What was your risk?

[ryanreyners]

Thank you so much for the reply I really appreciate it. I had protected vaginal intercourse several times with someone who came from a high-risk country, however the condom had split on numerous occasions during our encounters with each other. I do understand this may still be a very low risk but due to the symptoms this did cause me some level of concern. I've had a look through the forums and I get an understanding that many people have irrational fears in regards to how HIV is caught, I am really trying not to be one of these people and keep a cool head. My symptoms seem to have come and gone one after the other, as far as I am aware in those with ARS these symptoms are grouped and not separated? I apologise if these are questions that have been answered previously as I have not had success finding a definitive answer online.