Can I consult with a doctor on Laso MD regarding my HIV?

Certainly, at Laso MD, we provide RAMQ-covered appointments with doctors specifically addressing HIV risk and prevention. Our medical professionals conduct thorough consultations to assess concerns related to HIV, offering personalized treatment plans that may involve pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).

PrEP is a highly effective medication taken before engaging in sexual activity to reduce the risk of HIV transmission. Some cases may necessitate lab work to obtain a PrEP prescription.

All visits are RAMQ-covered, requiring only a valid Québec health card for access.

 

Can I receive a prescription on Laso MD?

Certainly, our healthcare providers can issue online prescriptions during your consultation. Upon accepting the prescription, you can choose to retrieve it from any pharmacy or opt for complimentary doorstep delivery.

 

What is HIV?

HIV, or human immunodeficiency virus, is a virus that gradually weakens the immune system. There are two types of HIV: HIV-1 and HIV-2. Symptoms vary, with HIV-1 being significantly more widespread compared to the relatively rare occurrence of HIV-2.

HIV progresses through stages:

1. Acute HIV Infection: This initial stage involves the virus attacking the immune system and reducing the CD4 count. CD4 cells are vital for fighting infections, and individuals in this phase often experience symptoms such as an HIV-related flu or rash.
2. Chronic HIV Infection: In the second stage, individuals with HIV who are on antiretroviral medication (ARTs) typically have low viral levels and can lead a normal, healthy life. Without medication, this stage may progress to AIDS within 5-10 years.
3. Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS): This represents the final stage of HIV, where the immune system becomes severely compromised. At this point, the body struggles to fight infections, resulting in increased susceptibility to illnesses and difficulty in recovery.

 

What are the symptoms of HIV?

Symptoms of acute HIV infection encompass:

• Fatigue
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Fever
• Chills
• Night sweats
• Joint pain
• Headaches
• Muscle pain
• Stomach pain
• Low appetite
• Rash
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Symptoms of AIDS include:

• Rapid weight loss
• Significant, unexplained fatigue
• Recurring fever
• Profuse night sweats
• Neurological disorders, such as AIDS-related dementia or memory loss
• Red, pink, purple, or brown splotches under the skin or inside the nose, mouth, and eyelids
• Shortness of breath
• Dry cough
• Diarrhea lasting more than a week
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck, groin, or armpits

 

How soon do HIV symptoms appear?

The incubation period for HIV, the duration between contracting the virus and the onset of symptoms, typically spans 2-4 weeks. Initial symptoms may mimic those of a cold or flu, and many individuals with HIV may not exhibit any signs early on.

 

When can HIV be detected through a blood test?

HIV tests gauge the presence of HIV antibodies in your system. Until your body generates antibodies, you might receive a negative test result despite being HIV positive.

This period, known as the HIV window period, lasts from 6 weeks to 3 months, during which a person remains highly contagious despite testing negative.

What leads to HIV?

HIV transmission occurs through specific bodily fluids like blood, semen, vaginal fluid, and breast milk. Saliva and physical contact, such as handshakes, pose no risk of HIV transmission.

 

How can HIV be prevented?

Several preventive measures include:

• Consistent and proper condom use during sex.
• Abstaining from sex if currently diagnosed with an STI, which heightens the risk of contracting other infections.
• Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) taken after sex to reduce the likelihood of HIV transmission.
• Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) taken before sex to significantly lower the risk of HIV transmission.
• For pregnant women, undergoing an STD test to prevent mother-to-child transmission.
• IV drug users using clean needles to prevent HIV spread.
• Informing previous partners if HIV positive to halt community transmission.

 

Is HIV curable?

There is currently no cure or vaccine for HIV. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is crucial for managing HIV, maintaining immune system health, and preventing progression to AIDS.

 

How is HIV treated? Antiretroviral therapy (HIV ART) is the primary treatment for HIV. Commencing ART promptly after diagnosis reduces the viral load to undetectable levels, preventing HIV transmission to others.

 

How long can someone live with HIV?

Advancements in medical care enable people with HIV to lead long, healthy lives. With proper treatment, life expectancy for someone with HIV can be comparable to those without the virus.

 

What is Laso MD?

Laso MD offers rapid, convenient access to Canadian doctors through a healthcare app. Log in, request a consultation, and connect with a doctor via live chat or video within minutes.

Our doctors assess symptoms and provide necessary treatments, including prescriptions.