Hi everyone
I have had health anxiety for as Long as I can remember, I am 31 I have had CBT in the past which has helped a bit but certain things can trigger it, I rarely watch any medical programmes and for some reason one of my major triggers is sexual health especially HIV.
I have had the HIV fear since I was 18 , i have no issues being tested for everything else at GUM clinic but I won’t do the blood tests cos of hiv. I don’t partake in risky behaviour and my thoughts on this I know are irrational. I have had tests before but I can only do the rapid ones as the thought of waiting days make me feel sick.
Few weeks ago the fear came back after a guy I had been seeing for a few years i found out had been sleeping with others... I plucked up the courage to do a rapid test and had one sent to my house this was a huge deal for me.. it was negative but our last encounter wouldn’t have shown up as it was two weeks before the test, albeit we have had sex probably hundreds of times in the last few years so I’d assume it would show up if I had it .
My mind was out at ease untill now.. a few days ago I developed a dry cough and felt a bit run down (6 weeks after the last sex) I’ve been tested for Covid which is negative. I don’t have any other symptoms other than a mild dry cough.
The Heath anxiety is now back in full force I am googling zero conversion and reading stories online and worrying myself sick. The main symptom of it is a fever and rash which I don’t have but those of you with HA will know that isn’t going to make me feel better for long.
I honestly don’t know why but HIV is my main HA trigger and it terrifies me. Now because I’ve got this cough I will not be able to do a rapid test and will be convinced I have it.
Does anyone have any tips on how I can calm down please !!