Expert: John Thai, M.D. - 10/5/2007

Question
Hi,

Has anyone ever got AIDS from something other than, sex or using needles after someone with AIDS?

Like if someone touched a door handle or money, and got AIDS from that, then had sex with their boyfriend/girlfriend, they would think it was from their boyfriend/girlfriend. So has this ever happened, or how likely could it be?

I have some of the symptoms of AIDS, and thats the only way I could have caught it

I don't know what to do, I can't go to the doctors because they don't do AIDS tests, and they say its because of my psychological problem
But my psychologist said that I maybe don't have OCD and I'm actually right about everything

I'm to scared to get tested at a clinic just in case I don't have it, and get it while I'm there, so the AIDS tests you can buy online, are they ok? I think if I don't have AIDS I'd have less chance of getting it using 1 of those

I have read how you can and can't catch it, but I still worry that I'm going to get it, some other way

Thank You


Answer
Hi Nic,

HIV can only be contracted via blood or unsafe sexual contact. AIDS is a syndrome which occurs once the immune system is impaired due to HIV.

As far as your psychologist's comments, I would highly recommend that you dismiss it. They are not medical professionals; thus, they should not inform you based on assumptions of medical transmissions.

Due to your generalized anxieties, home testing is not recommended. I highly recommend that you obtain a HIV test from your physician. Your physician SHOULD NOT deny you access to an HIV test. There are STD clinics which offers it for free with counseling should you have or do not have HIV.

If your physician refuses to test you for HIV, I highly recommend that you report their unethical behavior to your state's medical board and/or obtain advisory from an attorney and immediately seek care from another physician.


Regards,

John Thai, MD