“Am I Going to Die?” – The Fear Behind an HIV Diagnosis

This is often the first question patients ask when they hear the words “HIV positive.” The fear is understandable. There’s a heavy stigma around HIV and AIDS—many people think it’s a death sentence, or that it only affects a certain kind of person. But as someone who has treated hundreds of HIV-positive patients over the years, I, Dr. Mujeeb Khan, want to tell you: HIV is not the end. It’s the beginning of a managed life with care, treatment, and dignity.

Let’s break the silence and talk openly about HIV/AIDS—what it is, how it spreads, and most importantly, how it can be treated and lived with.

What is HIV? And How is it Different from AIDS?

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is a virus that attacks the immune system, making it weaker over time. If untreated, it can lead to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome), which is the most advanced stage of HIV infection where the body can no longer fight infections.

But here’s the truth: with early diagnosis and proper treatment, a person with HIV can live a long, healthy life without ever developing AIDS.

How Does HIV Spread?

One of the biggest sources of fear is misunderstanding how HIV spreads. It is not transmitted by:

• Hugging, shaking hands, or sharing food
• Using the same toilet or utensils
• Kissing (unless there are bleeding gums or sores)

It is transmitted through:

• Unprotected sexual contact
• Sharing needles or syringes
• Transfusion of infected blood (though rare now with proper screening)
• From mother to child during childbirth or breastfeeding (preventable with medical care)

At Advanced International Hospital, we’ve seen patients break down in tears—sometimes from fear, other times from shame. Many are good people caught in difficult circumstances. That’s why we approach every case with empathy and confidentiality.

Symptoms: When Should You Get Tested?

Many people don’t realize they have HIV for years. That’s why testing is essential, especially if you:

• Have had unprotected sex with multiple partners
• Share or have shared needles
• Have been diagnosed with another sexually transmitted infection (STI)
• Have unexplained weight loss, fatigue, night sweats, or swollen lymph nodes

Common early symptoms include:

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Rash
• Body aches
• Swollen glands

These symptoms can be mistaken for a regular flu—so if you feel something isn’t right, get tested.

Is There a Cure?

There is no cure yet for HIV, but there is very effective treatment: ART (Antiretroviral Therapy).

ART doesn’t kill the virus, but it can reduce it to undetectable levels, making it almost impossible to transmit and allowing your immune system to recover. With treatment:

• Your lifespan can be nearly the same as someone without HIV
• You can have healthy relationships and children
• You can work, travel, and live a full life

At AIH, we offer personalized ART programs with regular follow-ups, counseling, and lab support to keep your health on track.

Stigma Hurts More Than the Virus

Sadly, in Pakistan, social stigma remains one of the biggest challenges. Patients fear being judged, isolated, or even disowned. This shame can delay testing and treatment, worsening outcomes.

We must remember: HIV does not define a person. It’s a medical condition—like diabetes or hypertension—that can be managed.

At Advanced International Hospital, we provide a safe, judgment-free space where your privacy is protected, and your dignity is respected.

AIH’s Role in HIV Care

As a physician at AIH, I’ve seen stories of despair turn into stories of strength. We offer:

• Confidential testing & diagnosis
• Free counseling sessions for patients and families
• Tailored treatment plans and medication monitoring
• Nutritional guidance and immune support
• Monitoring for opportunistic infections (e.g., TB, fungal infections)

Whether you’re newly diagnosed or have been living with HIV for years, you don’t have to walk this journey alone. We are here—for support, care, and guidance.

Final Words: You Are Not Alone

To anyone living with HIV—or afraid they might be—I want you to know:

You are not dirty. You are not broken. You are not alone.

With medical support, lifestyle adjustments, and emotional strength, you can live a normal, fulfilling life.

And if you’re scared to take the first step, just walk into our clinic at Advanced International Hospital. We’re not here to judge—we’re here to help.

📞 For appointments and confidential consultations, call AIH at: 051-111-786-005
Dr. Muhammad Mujeeb Khan – Internal Medicine, Infectious Disease, and Endocrinology Specialist
Advanced International Hospital, Islamabad