However, individuals who inject drugs are more susceptible to cotton fever due to the nature of the administration method. When injected, they can cause an inflammatory response in the body, resulting in the symptoms of cotton fever. These substances can enter the bloodstream and trigger an immune response, leading to the symptoms of cotton fever. It is not caused by an infection, but rather by the body’s reaction to bacteria or endotoxins that are present in the cotton or other materials used to filter the drugs. Cotton fever is a condition that may occur after injecting drugs, particularly those dissolved in cotton filters or other materials. While there is no specific cure for cotton fever, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and addressing any complications that may arise.
If you suspect you have cotton fever or are experiencing symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. If you experience severe symptoms of cotton fever, it is advisable to seek immediate medical help. If you or someone you know experiences these symptoms after drug injection, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately to rule out any potentially serious conditions. The practice of using cotton filters to prepare drugs is common among individuals who inject drugs intravenously to remove solid particles and impurities from the drug solution. The term “cotton fever” is believed to have originated from the practice of using cotton filters to prepare drugs for injection. Cotton fever, also known as “the shakes” or “Marseilles fever,” refers to a set of flu-like symptoms that individuals may experience after injecting drugs using cotton filters.
Some people may have antibodies that react with materials in cotton filters, resulting in a sudden immune reaction. Tiny cotton contaminants entering the bloodstream may irritate the body and trigger a response. There are several theories about what causes cotton fever. However, prevention remains the gold standard, particularly if intravenous drug use is ongoing. While well-known within the user community, this condition is often underrecognized by medical professionals.
Prevention and Risk Reduction
- Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medications or implementing self-care strategies to ensure they are appropriate for your specific situation.
- Prevention is the best way to avoid cotton fever, and this can be achieved by using clean needles and syringes and avoiding cotton swabs or filters when preparing drugs for injection.
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- Some common IV drugs include heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine.
Check for discoloration, mold, strange smells, or odd texture to avoid health risks. New patients can expect a personalized intake, daily structured therapy, support systems, recreational activities, and discharge planning for full recovery. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medications or implementing self-care strategies to ensure they are appropriate for your specific situation. It is important to prioritize your health and well-being and seek professional help if needed. These filters are less likely to introduce harmful substances into the bloodstream.
What are the symptoms of cotton fever?
There is help available for intravenous drug abusers. On the other hand, overdosing on stimulant drugs such as cocaine or methamphetamine can result in a heart attack or stroke. The symptoms of drug overdose can vary based on the type of drug used.
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Smyth, Breda; Hoffman, Valerie; et al. “Years of Potential Life Lost among Heroin Addicts 33 Years after Treatment.” Preventive Medicine, April 2007. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. In addition to having been the founding and Chief Medical Officer at The Recovery Village, he has also been the medical director at The Recovery Village Ridgefield and at The Recovery Village Palmer Lake.
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- The symptoms of cotton fever resemble those of sepsis and patients can be initially misdiagnosed upon admission to a hospital.
- Most people describe a sudden “wall of sickness” shortly after an injection—often within 15 minutes to a few hours.
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- Fever and sweating can quickly lead to dehydration, which can worsen symptoms.
- These filters are less likely to introduce harmful substances into the bloodstream.
It’s important to be aware of the signs that indicate the need for professional medical assistance. For fever and body aches, a cool compress or cold pack can provide temporary relief. Adequate rest is also crucial, as it allows your immune system to work efficiently and aids in the recovery process. Drinking plenty of fluids, such as water or electrolyte-rich beverages, can help flush out toxins and support your body’s natural healing process. Flexible treatment option allowing clients to continue going to work or school. Intensive therapy & support for those who do not require 24/7 hospitalization.
In the following sections, we will explore the causes, symptoms, risks, and preventive measures related to cotton fever. While the exact history of cotton fever is not well-documented, it has been prevalent among individuals who inject drugs for several decades. When drugs are prepared for injection, cotton filters are commonly used to filter out impurities. While cotton fever is only a temporarily uncomfortable complication of IV substance use, there are many more serious and potentially fatal conditions that IV drug use can cause. Alamo Behavioral Health Addiction Treatment Center is dedicated to providing comprehensive and effective residential treatment for individuals seeking recovery from addiction.
Cotton Fever Treatments
Instead, opt for sterile and disposable filters specifically designed for drug preparation. However, being aware of the distinguishing factors and understanding how it is diagnosed can help in identifying cotton fever accurately. Cotton fever is a condition that can be difficult to recognize, as its symptoms may resemble those of other illnesses.
Hydration and Rest
If the symptoms do not go away with time, it is a sign that they are being caused by something other than cotton fever. Treatment for cotton fever is typically supportive. While cotton fever may cause mild discomfort, it indicates that IV drug misuse has reached a dangerous level. Cotton fever can occur after injecting an intravenous (IV) drug that has been filtered with cotton. Reach out to us today to learn more about our substance abuse treatment programs in San Antonio or to get started with a confidential, risk-free assessment. This means that insurance plans sold through the ACA marketplace must cover addiction treatment services, including detoxification, inpatient and outpatient treatment, and aftercare programs.
Complications and Risks
There has been a case of endocarditis from cotton fever caused by the Enterobacter asburiae endotoxin that lives on cotton plants. Some drugs have intense withdrawal syndromes with life-threatening symptoms, such as alcohol and benzodiazepines. However, cotton fever has possible complications, particularly the habits that lead to it. If you experience cotton fever, you can treat the symptoms at home and wait for them to subside without intervention.
These symptoms may indicate a more serious condition or complication, and medical professionals can provide the necessary evaluation and treatment. While home remedies can be effective in managing cotton fever, there are instances where medical attention should be sought. Several natural remedies possess anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation and ease symptoms of cotton fever.
If symptoms improve and tests return normal, they are typically discharged with instructions to follow up with family medicine or addiction services. However, doctors must ensure it’s not something more dangerous before concluding that it’s a case of cotton fever. Cotton fever is a condition self-diagnosed by many drug users based on their repeated experience. These symptoms can be intense but usually resolve on their own within a few hours.
When it comes to cotton fever, prevention and risk reduction are crucial in minimizing the chances of experiencing this condition. Understanding cotton fever and its symptoms is the cotton fever symptoms first step in recognizing and addressing this condition. Cotton fever typically develops within a few hours after drug injection and lasts for a relatively short period of time, usually no longer than 24 hours.
In this section, we will explore what cotton fever is and delve into its history and origin. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.