Could I Have HIV?!
Question: I got a tatoo in Bali in October 2007. I'm beginning to feel worried about it and wish I hadn't done it, I was 15 and my parents don't know! I've looked up the early symptoms on google and I've had quite a few of them.
I was just wondering though if there are any symptoms on the actual tattoo because It's always extremely itchy if i accidentally brush it and looks slightly swollen and red sometimes.
Also, if I get a blood test how much would it cost and do my parents have to give consent?? And how long would it take to get the results???
Any help would be really appreciated! Thanks :(
Answers: I got a tatoo in Bali in October 2007. I'm beginning to feel worried about it and wish I hadn't done it, I was 15 and my parents don't know! I've looked up the early symptoms on google and I've had quite a few of them.
I was just wondering though if there are any symptoms on the actual tattoo because It's always extremely itchy if i accidentally brush it and looks slightly swollen and red sometimes.
Also, if I get a blood test how much would it cost and do my parents have to give consent?? And how long would it take to get the results???
Any help would be really appreciated! Thanks :(
It sounds like you got an infection from the tattoo.. Was it a traditional Bali tattooer or something?
I have 6 tattoos and after getting a tattoo, they're always itchy, swollen and red so I wouldn't stress about that - it's completely normal.
You have only mentioned symptons in relation to the tattoo. How are you feeling physically yourself? And what HIV symptoms are you feeling?
As for getting a blood test, you can go to a sexual health clinic and get a test done anonymously. I would also suggest other tests like Hep B and C because they can be contracted via needle also.
Another thing, tattooists have to have strict health control so again, please don't stress. Did you see the tattooist use a new needle?
no you don't need consent of your parents to do an stds test. the good of it is that you are given a number and you are kept 100% anonymous. you can tell the octor to go and take the results from him instead of receving them int he post office. the earlier you know about hiv th ebetter because you will live longer. you wouldn't be the only one of hiv there are millions around with that virus. anyway the good new is that you may not have hiv and you will not keep worrying for your whole lifetime. the chances are that you don't have it but because you are worryign you make your body think you are havign it. i don't know the symtopms of tattooos, but go and get tested for hiv.
Sounds like you got a bad tatoo artist to work on you. You probably have some reaction to the tatoo/cream he or you used on it, even if it was two years ago. Try putting a different cream on it and see if it clears up if not, go to a good dermatologist and have it checked. Tell your parents I know they'll be understanding if you tell them you think your arm is falling off. I think if it was Aids the symptoms iwouldn't just be centered on your tatoo. If it helps go to an Aids clinic and they have free Aids testing and confidential results just for your peace of mind. But, hey, try not to get tatoos in Bali it will save you alot of worry in the future. Let this resolve before geting another tatoo!