Home \ Expert Q & A \ Addictions \ Addictions: Zelik Mintz \ HIV transmission sharing a smoke
Text Size
Smaller
Bigger

HIV transmission sharing a smoke

answered 04:12 PM EST, Thu February 13, 2014
anonymous anonymous
Can I get HIV if I shared a pipe with some guy that had bleeding lips. It was really dark in the park and my buddy saw this guy that he knew that is practically a homeless dude and the guy asked if he could have a few tokes and since I was baked I did not even think to worry about sharing a little herb. Then we walked into the street light and I saw this guys lips were bleeding from being so dry and cracked. I am freaked out and I can’t stop thinking about this. Should I get tested or am I being paranoid?

Zelik Mintz Says...

First I'd like to suggest that you get tested.  I recommend this because of your anxiety about sero-converting to HIV rather than because I think transmission in your case is likely.  Although theoretically possible to transmit HIV by sharing a smoke with someone who has bleeding gums or mouth, transmission needs an avenue to enter directly into the  bloodstream - cuts or abrasions in your mouth.  Hearing that HIV in your case is very unlikely will probably not be enough to fully relieve anxiety.  Talking to a physician and testing negative will hopefully be more effective in lessening your worry and concern.  

 
Email It Send this page Print It Print friendly page Subscribe Subscribe to this topic category

Page last updated Feb 13, 2014

Addictions: Featured Experts
All Experts
Topics Covered by this Expert
ADD ADHD ADHD Treatment Hep C Hepatitis C Modafinil Smart Drugs

This website is certified by Health On the Net Foundation. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information.

Find Treatment
Browse by region »
Scan to call us
using your phone camera app