What is the Nucleic Acid Test (HIV)? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post, and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form down below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is a NAT test?
This test looks for the presence of RNA virus in the blood sample.
A NAT test detects the genetic material in the RNA virus. It identifies HIV faster than other types of tests. It is also called a viral load test. It does not scan the HIV antibodies. This test is more accurate and is done from 10 to 33 days after exposure.
Also Read: HIV Antibody Test
What is it used for?
It is used if you have been diagnosed with HIV.
- To check how well HIV medicines are working.
- To monitor any changes in the HIV infection.
- To check the viral load.
What are the signs and symptoms of HIV?
Most people, don’t develop any symptoms of HIV when exposed to the virus. Some people may experience flu-like symptoms within two to four weeks of exposure to the virus. The common signs that indicate the need for a rapid HIV test include:
- Diarrhoea
- Enlarged or swollen lymph nodes
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Fever
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Neurologic issues
- Rashes on the face, legs, arms, and abdomen
- Fungal infections in the mouth
What do the results mean?
If you had a NAT HIV test to diagnose whether you have HIV:
A regular or negative result: It means that no HIV virus is present in the blood, and you are probably not infected with HIV.
A result that shows any amount of virus in blood: Means you have an HIV infection. The doctor has advised the patient to perform other tests, including a CD4 count, to check how much HIV has damaged the immune system.
