Aa
Aa
A
A
A
Close
Avatar universal

At risk for disease from earring?

Hello Doctor,

A few months ago, I bought a pair of earrings from the store and wore them without cleaning them.  I never really clean earrings before I wear them, so I did not think to clean these ones.  However, I have been worried for some reason that it was a mistake that I didn't clean them.  Am I at risk for any diseases such as HIV?  My ears did become irritated after wearing the earrings and bled a little.  But I think it was just the type of earring that caused the irritation.  I also have been ill the past month with a cough, sore throat, and sinus infection.  Am I at risk?

Please help.  I'm extremely paranoid :(
4 Responses
Sort by: Helpful Oldest Newest
Avatar universal
Thank you so much for your reply.  This helps a lot.  Not sure why I am so concerned!!!!  I have never worried about it before.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Hi thinkclean...

I most definitely would NOT worry about this. Sounds like you had a reaction to the earrings, I am assuming they weren't real silver or gold and you probably were irritated by them. I would not worry AT ALL about the possibility of getting HIV. HIV is transmitted by bodily fluids...semen, blood, etc. Also, the HIV virus cannot live on objects, such as earrings. I would definitely not worry about this and drive yourself crazy:) I know it's easier said than done.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Okay, thank you.  The only reason I am concerned is because I am never sick, and I know it's the time of year to get sick like this, but I am trying to find a reason behind it.  But if you say there is no risk, then I will try not to worry.  Thank you.
Helpful - 0
Avatar universal
Not an HIV concern.
Helpful - 0
Have an Answer?

You are reading content posted in the HIV Prevention Community

Top HIV Answerers
366749 tn?1544695265
Karachi, Pakistan
370181 tn?1595629445
Arlington, WA
Learn About Top Answerers
Didn't find the answer you were looking for?
Ask a question
Popular Resources
Condoms are the most effective way to prevent HIV and STDs.
PrEP is used by people with high risk to prevent HIV infection.
Can I get HIV from surfaces, like toilet seats?
Can you get HIV from casual contact, like hugging?
Frequency of HIV testing depends on your risk.
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) may help prevent HIV infection.