I'm really worried about something that happened during a recent blood draw. At the private lab, I noticed the seal on the vacutainer needle was already torn before my blood was drawn, and now, a month later, I'm experiencing some unsettling symptoms like severe fatigue, headaches, dizziness, and red spots on my legs. My sore throat has continued, and there's a swollen lymph node near my elbow even after three months. I did an HIV test, the 4th-generation kind, and it came back negative after 8 weeks and 7 days. But I'm still concerned, especially since there was about a 7-minute gap between me and the previous patient. Can HIV be a concern here? Is it possible for vacutainer needles to be reused? I just want to understand if there's something more I should be looking out for.

Dr Kareemulla Shaik

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• 0+ Yrs

Consult Now

Throat Pain After Vomiting _Causes_ 1. Stomach acid irritation 2. Inflammation of the throat lining _Remedy_ 1. _Stay hydrated_: Drink plenty of water to help soothe the throat. 2. _Gargle with salt water_: Mix 14 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water to reduce inflammation. 3. _Throat lozenges_: Suck on lozenges or cough drops to help soothe the throat. 4. _Avoid irritants_: Stay away from spicy or acidic foods and drinks. 5. _Rest your voice_: Avoid talking or shouting to give your throat time to heal. _When to Seek Medical Attention_ 1. _Severe pain_: If pain persists or worsens. 2. _Difficulty swallowing_: If you experience trouble swallowing food or water. 3. _Fever_: If you have a fever over 101.5F (38.6C). 4. _Blood in vomit or saliva_: If you notice blood in your vomit or saliva.

Answered 16 days ago