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Sexually Transmitted Infections
STDs are normally caused by bacteria, yeast, parasites, and viruses. It affects both men and women, though in most cases it is more severe in women. If an expectant woman contracts an STD, it could cause serious health complications to the unborn child. STDs caused by bacteria, yeast, and parasites are treatable but if it is caused by a virus, it cannot be treated. It can only be managed through certain medicines which help with symptoms to keep the disease under control. The most reliable way to avoid getting an STD infection is to abstain from vaginal, anal or oral sex. Use of latex condoms can reduce the risks of contracting it but does not completely eliminate the chances. Lake Nona STD testing can help one treat their condition and prevent the spread of the disease.
Getting Tested
If one suspects that they might have an STD, it is best to visit a health clinic and get tested. Some STDs have no symptoms and testing is the only way to diagnose them. In most states, anyone above the age of 13 can be tested for STDs at any clinic without the consent of their parents. The health clinic can also shed more light on the disease and foolproof ways of preventing it. Some of the most common types of STD tests include the urine test, blood sample test, Pap smear and swab test.
A doctor may request for a urine sample to test for gonorrhea or chlamydia, which are two of the most common types of STDs. A blood sample can be used to test for herpes, syphilis, hepatitis, or HIV. For women who show no symptoms, a Pap test will be done to detect human papillomavirus. If the Pap smear test shows some unusual changes, a DNA will then be conducted to reveal the HPV. Currently, there is no reliable way to test for HPV in men. A swab test can be used to determine if one has trichomoniasis. A swab of cotton is rubbed on the affected area and sent to the lab for testing.
Discharge and Rashes
Any unusual discharge, difficulty, or pain during urination should be immediately noted. The texture, color, and smell of the urine can be used to identify the type of STD one has contracted. Increased discharge from the genitals (yellow, white or greenish) or a burning sensation during urination could be a sign of gonorrhea, chlamydia or trichomoniasis in both men and women. Additionally, one should pay attention to any rashes or sores in specific areas of the body. Rashes on the mouth and genitals are commonly associated with STDs, and the person should visit a health clinic immediately. Painless sores are indicative of syphilis in its early stages. These sores appear on the genitals about 3 weeks after the infection.
Fever, Fatigue, and Nausea
Some STDs symptoms are common to flu, and this makes them difficult to identify. They include a sore throat, cough, stuffy or runny nose, chills, nausea, headaches, and fever. If one is experiencing these symptoms, they should see their doctor to determine whether they have flu or STD. Flu-like symptoms that show up after sex could indicate that one has syphilis or HIV. Other times, swollen glands and fever could also indicate that one has an STD. Painful glands, that feel tender when pressed could mean that one has contracted herpes. Herpes symptoms appear at least two days after infection.
