HIV/AIDS
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a chronic viral infection that weakens the immune system over time. Many people experience a brief, flu-like illness early on and then feel completely well for years. Without treatment, HIV progresses and increases the risk of serious infections and certain cancers.
With early diagnosis and modern antiretroviral therapy (ART), individuals with HIV can live long, healthy, and active lives.
At The Medical Group of New Jersey, our infectious disease specialists provide compassionate, confidential evaluation, state-of-the-art treatment, and long-term monitoring to protect your immune system and overall well-being.
Symptom Onset & Initial Evaluation
Symptoms vary depending on the stage of HIV infection.
Early (Acute) HIV Infection
Within 2 to 4 weeks of exposure, some people develop a brief illness that may include:
- Fever, sore throat, or swollen glands
- Rash
- Fatigue or muscle aches
- Headache
These symptoms often resemble a viral illness and resolve on their own, which is why early HIV is frequently missed.
Chronic HIV Infection
After the initial phase, many people feel completely healthy for years. During this stage, the virus continues to multiply silently, which is why regular testing is so important.
Evaluation
During your visit to The Medical Group of New Jersey, your infectious disease specialist will:
- Ask about recent illnesses, exposures, or sexual/needle-contact risks
- Review current medications and medical history
- Perform a physical exam focused on lymph nodes, skin, and immune health
- Provide confidential HIV testing (rapid, antigen/antibody, or PCR)
- Offer emotional support, counseling, and education
Diagnosis is always handled with sensitivity, privacy, and respect.
Diagnosis & Risk Assessment
If HIV is suspected, your doctor may order the following lab tests:
- HIV antigen/antibody test: The most common screening test
- HIV RNA PCR: Detects infection early
- CD4 count: Measures immune system strength
- Viral load: Measures how much virus is in the bloodstream
Additional assessments may include:
- Screening for other sexually transmitted infections
- Hepatitis A, B, and C testing
- Tuberculosis screening
- Kidney and liver function tests
- Medication resistance testing (genotype)
These results enable your specialist to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your medical needs and lifestyle.
Treatment & Long-Term Management
Treatment for HIV is safe, effective, and usually involves one pill taken once a day. The goal is to reduce viral load to an “undetectable” level, which protects the immune system and prevents transmission.
Antiretroviral Therapy (ART)
Your care plan may include:
- Single-tablet daily regimens
- Long-acting injectable ART (when appropriate)
- Tailored medication combinations based on resistance testing
When taken consistently, ART leads to:
- Rapid drop in viral load
- Increased CD4 count
- Lower risk of opportunistic infections
- Dramatically improved long-term survival
Preventing Opportunistic Infections
Depending on your immune status, your doctor may also recommend:
- Vaccinations (influenza, pneumococcal, hepatitis, etc.)
- Preventive antibiotics (for severe immune suppression)
- Early treatment of coexisting infections
Your care team will also provide guidance about nutrition, wellness, and sleep, which are all essential components of immune health.
Monitoring & Follow-Up
Ongoing follow-up is essential to keep HIV well-controlled. During routine visits, your specialist will:
- Recheck viral load and CD4 count
- Monitor kidney and liver function
- Review medication adherence and side effects
- Update vaccinations
- Screen for cancers associated with HIV
- Address mental health, sexual health, and lifestyle questions
For most patients, follow-up visits occur every 3 to 6 months.
The Medical Group of New Jersey also offers support for medication access, insurance navigation, and pill-taking routines to ensure treatment success.
Prognosis & Preventive Care
With consistent treatment, individuals living with HIV now have:
- Near-normal life expectancy
- Undetectable viral load, meaning no sexual transmission (U=U)
- Protection from serious infections and complications
- Improved quality of life
Preventive strategies include:
- Staying consistent with daily medication
- Routine viral load monitoring
- Avoiding missed doses
- Vaccinations and regular screenings
- Using PrEP/PEP for partners when appropriate
Our team provides judgment-free, patient-centered care focused on long-term health and well-being.