In addition to HIV and hepatitis C, injection drug use can cause other infections and conditions, including:
- Skin infections, like abscesses and cellulitis
- Sepsis (blood infection)
- Endocarditis (heart infection)
- Blood clots
- Vein collapse
Learn more about these conditions (and how to prevent them) in the Harm Reduction Coalition’s Safety Manual for Injection Drug Users..
What causes these infections?
Microbes (like bacteria) and toxic substances found in unsterile needles, cottons, water, drugs, and on the skin cause infections, like abscesses, sepsis, and endocarditis. Injecting drugs creates an opening that allows infections to enter the body.
Injecting drugs also damages the veins. This damage can cause vein collapse, poor circulation, and heart disease.
How can I prevent these infections and conditions?
- Use a new, sterile syringe for each injection. Cleaning out a used needle with bleach will reduce, but not eliminate, the risk of infections. A used needle will also cause more damage to your veins and tissues. Read the CDC’s guidance on cleaning syringes.
- Use sterile water, cottons, cookers, and other equipment for each injection.
- Clean the injection site with soap and water or alcohol before each injection.
- Always wash your hands before preparing your drugs.
- Rotate your injection sites and avoid injecting in dangerous sites on the body.
- Practice good injection technique.
What should I do if I have a drug-use related infection or condition?
- If you think your drug use has caused an infection or condition, it is important that you seek care.
- If you live in Franklin County and need help finding medical care, click here to ask our Health Navigator to contact you.
- If you have any of the following, get medical care right away:
- Chest pain and/or trouble breathing
- Blurred vision, slurred speech, and/or fainting
- Fever with rapid heart rate and/or rapid breathing
- Swelling and pain in the arm or leg
HIV & Drug Use | Hep-C & Drug Use | Other Conditions & Drug Use | Overdose Prevention & Response | Substance Use Disorder Treatment
