This fever can be accompanied by chills, making the person feel cold despite having an elevated body temperature. These drugs have a faster onset of effects than other uses because they go directly into the bloodstream. It typically requires a much smaller dose than if the drug was consumed or inhaled.

The body may also eliminate substances through sweat, urine, and breath. Intravenous drug users are also at increased risk of overdose, risky sexual behaviors, and other dangerous behaviors. Cotton particles enter the bloodstream, causing the body to produce an immune response.

Resources for Support and Information

It’s important to ensure other infections aren’t causing similar symptoms. Unlike other types of infections, the fast onset of symptoms after injection typically indicates cotton fever. Even though cotton fever can resolve itself, seeking medical attention to confirm the diagnosis is critical.

Some drug users mistakenly believe fragments and debris cause cotton fever. Cotton fever is a condition that can be difficult to recognize, as its symptoms may resemble those of other illnesses. However, being aware of the distinguishing factors and understanding how it is diagnosed can help in identifying cotton fever accurately.

The most widely accepted theory behind the illness is that it occurs as a result of an endotoxin response. Certain bacteria that may be harbored in reused cotton filters or needles introduce bacteria into the bloodstream, often a specific type of bacteria called Enterobacter agglomerans, which creates a mild toxin in the body. The fever itself usually reaches 38.5–40.3 °C (101.3–104.5 °F) during the full onset.citation needed Extreme chills and uncontrollable shivering are common.

Long-Term Risks of IV Drug Abuse

Most substance use disorders begin with a person smoking or ingesting an addictive substance. However, as they become more dependent on the substance, they’re more likely to seek a stronger and faster high. As a result, they might consider using drugs like heroin or cocaine through intravenous injection or IV. If you’re worried that you or a loved one is experiencing cotton fever, you should go to the emergency room right away to seek treatment. Otherwise, in this article, we’ll help cotton fever symptoms you understand more about this illness and its symptoms, what causes it, and how you can prevent it. Though benign febrile syndrome is a self-limiting illness, other complications can arise that are more severe, including addiction.

The rapid and intense effects can make the drug more dangerous, as it encourages repeated use. The only way to prevent the condition entirely is to seek drug addiction treatment and avoid substance abuse altogether. It is not considered dangerous or life-threatening, however, symptoms can be uncomfortable and frightening.

In this section, we will explore the steps one can take to address cotton fever and reduce the risk of its occurrence. Cotton fever may not be a medical condition, but it can be a serious problem for drug users. It is important to be aware of the symptoms and take steps to prevent it from occurring. If you are struggling with drug addiction, seek help from a healthcare professional or addiction specialist.

At Archstone Behavioral Health, we understand that the cost of rehab often discourages people from seeking help. That’s why our goal is to make rehab accessible through a variety of rehab insurance coverage plans we have on offer. We invite you to learn more about them and let our team help you find the right insurance option for you or your loved one.

Unsanitary Drug Preparation Practices

Organ failure and death are just some of the possible complications caused by sepsis. It is commonly thought that Cotton Fever was contracted by pieces of cotton getting into the bloodstream during injection. The true cause of this condition is the bacteria known as Pantoea agglomerans.

1. People get cotton fever when they use dirty needles or cotton when injecting IV drugs.
2. However, bacteria can enter the body in a number of ways when injecting drugs.
3. However, many medical experts believe the endotoxin response theory is the most accurate.
4. Symptoms begin shortly after injecting drugs and often subside within 12 hours, with severe cases lasting up to 24 hours.
5. This is generally due to re-using a needle that may have the bacteria residue still on the needle from prior use.

How common is cotton fever?

By educating others about cotton fever, you can help increase awareness and reduce the likelihood of individuals experiencing this condition. One of the primary ways to combat cotton fever is by spreading awareness about its dangers and how it occurs. By educating parents, families, and teachers about cotton fever, we can help them recognize the signs and symptoms and take appropriate action. It can occur after injecting a variety of substances, including heroin, methamphetamine, and prescription opioids. Though cotton fever is not considered dangerous, it can be uncomfortable.