First Steps After Your Recent HIV Diagnosis

It’s normal to be scared and overwhelmed after finding out you tested positive for HIV. Nowadays, HIV is considered a chronic treatable condition, so knowing your status is the best first step to staying healthy with medical treatment and self-care.

HIV/AIDS diagnosis

In This Article:

  • About a million people in the U.S. live with HIV, and about 1 in 7 don’t realize they are infected. But if you are diagnosed, there are still many ways to live a long and healthy life.
  • Visit a doctor to start HIV medications called antiretroviral therapy (ART) immediately after your diagnosis, even if you do not feel sick. You can also get medications that will prevent others from receiving the virus. Enroll and stay in health insurance, as well.
  • Taking an active role in your self-care is essential to keeping you healthy longer. Eat fresh, whole foods like fruits, vegetables, grains and lean protein, and exercise often.
Your management team has somehow managed to develop a culture throughout the Arizona Burn Center that is something I wanted to compliment you for ... It is one that treats the patient as a special person. Whether it was the nursing staff, the physical therapists or the physicians, they all shared the same understanding – the importance of the patient and how to deliver the best possible overall care.

HIV/AIDS Services

Valleywise Health offers some of the most comprehensive HIV prevention and treatment services in the country. Explore our HIV/AIDS Services or get a free at-home HIV test kit today.



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