Health

Ask Fiona: I'm gay and worried about my health

Columnist and trained counsellor Fiona Caine offers her perspective on family dramas, emotional issues and dysfunctional relationships

If you are worried about your health you should see a doctor
If you are worried about your health you should see a doctor If you are worried about your health you should see a doctor

I've always been careful about my choice of lovers, but I'm concerned I may have contracted Aids.

I've been ill on and off for ages – there's nothing seriously wrong with me, as far as I know – but I'm physically very low.

I am scared to death of going to my GP, not least because he knows my family and I don't want them to find out I'm gay.

TN

FIONA SAYS: If you want to find out whether or not you have contracted the HIV virus that can lead to AIDS, then you will need to get tested,

You don't need to see your GP – although he has a duty to keep the doctor/patient relationship completely confidential, however well he knows your family.

Instead, you can go to a local sexual health clinic (find your nearest one online).

It might be within your local hospital or else at an alternative clinical facility, but there should be one within a reasonable distance of you.

Give them a ring and make an appointment for a blood test and take their advice – you may need more than one.

You can be sure of complete anonymity.

If you do need further advice on HIV/AIDS, then contact the Terrence Higgins Trust.

If your results are negative, do go and see your doctor to find out what is causing the symptoms you're experiencing.

If you have a problem you can email me, Fiona Caine, at help@askfiona.net