Can snorting-induced nasal injury cause HIV or Hepatitis?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am concerned as I tried cocaine 10 days ago. I used a bank note to snort it, but did not share the note with anyone. There was no visible blood, and so on the note. I had a cut in one of my nostrils and had an open wound. I was feeling unwell before this, but then got the flu and a cold a day later, and still do not feel great even after 10 days. Now, I have diarrhea.

Do you think I would have gotten hepatitis C or HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)? Most forums say that there are few chances, but highly unlikely.

Please give your expert opinion regarding the same.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and can understand your concerns.

HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection is spread through the exchange of body fluids. Dried blood stains cannot transmit the virus. Artificial things, such as notes in your case, cannot help to serve as a focus of infection, as the virus cannot survive. You can be assured that there is no risk of HIV, and you can rest your fears. Among the methods of spread, unprotected sexual exposure, intravenous drug abuse, and blood transfusions have to be kept in mind. There are nil chances in your case, and there is no point in testing.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

For someone to transmit HIV, they generally need to have been infected for at least four weeks. Since your exposure was only 10 days ago, it is unlikely that you could have transmitted the virus to your partner. The virus needs time to multiply and reach levels high enough to be contagious.

Your diarrhea is more likely caused by common factors such as food poisoning, indigestion, or stress rather than an infection like HIV.

Since you have already been tested, try not to worry and wait patiently for your results—they are most likely to be negative.

Treatment recommendations for diarrhea:

Oral rehydration solution (ORS): Dissolve one sachet in a glass of water and drink as needed to stay hydrated based on the frequency of loose stools.
Loperamide (Imodium): Take one tablet twice daily for up to three days.

Please consult a specialist or your healthcare provider before starting this medication and take it with their guidance.

If symptoms persist or worsen, please seek medical advice promptly.

I hope I have answered your query.

Please let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.