What Are the Most Common STD Symptoms?

Did you know that one of the most common sexually transmitted disease (STD) symptoms is no symptoms at all? It’s true! That’s why it is so important to receive routine STD testing if you are sexually active

With that said, several STDs do cause noticeable symptoms. The following is a list of symptoms that are associated with some of the most common STDs:

Gonorrhea

Men may experience these symptoms:

• Burning or painful urination
• Swollen or painful testicles
• Unusual penile discharge

Women may experience these symptoms:

• Unusual bleeding or vaginal discharge
• Pain during sex
• Abdominal pain

Genital Herpes

Genital herpes (herpes simplex virus) often does not have noticeable symptoms. When it does, they may include:

• Pain or itching around the genital area and thighs
• Ulcers and scabs
• Small white blisters or red bumps
• Flu-like symptoms

Syphilis

Syphilis is a particularly complex, contagious, and serious STD that warrants prompt medical attention. With syphilis, one symptom may heal on its own only to be followed by the development of a new symptom. Be sure to quickly speak with a medical professional if you notice any of the following:

• Small, painless sores around the genital area or mouth
• A rose-colored rash on the palms of the hands or bottom of the feet
• Wart-like growths around the genital area
• White patches on the inside of the mouth
• Fever and swollen lymph nodes

Chlamydia

Chlamydia does not cause noticeable symptoms in most cases. When it does, here’s what it may involve.

In men:

• Painful urination
• Clear or cloudy penile discharge
• Itching and burning
• Swollen or painful testicles

In women:

• Abnormal bleeding or vaginal discharge
• Unusually painful periods
• Pain during sex
• Painful urination
• Fever with abdominal pain
• Itching and burning

Hepatitis B

Hepatitis B is a serious infection of the liver that requires timely medical treatment. Its symptoms include:

• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• Brown or orange urine or light-colored bowel movements
• Fatigue that lasts for several weeks
• Fever
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite

HIV & AIDS

An infection caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) can progress to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) over the course of about 10 years if the initial infection is left untreated. The symptoms of HIV/AIDS can vary significantly depending on the phase of the disease. During the initial HIV infection, the following symptoms may persist for a few weeks:

• Muscle and joint pain
• Swollen neck lymph nodes
• Fever
• Headache
• Rashes
• Painful mouth sores
• Sore throat

As HIV progresses and attacks more immune cells, symptoms may include:

• Fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Weight loss
• Shingles
• Oral yeast infection

Finally, if AIDS develops, the following symptoms may occur:

• Frequent fevers
• Heavy night sweats
• Lingering fatigue
• Chronic diarrhea
• Skin rashes and bumps
• Abnormal white spots in your mouth

It’s important to note that men who have sexual intercourse with other men are more likely to be diagnosed with an STD and should be particularly mindful to receive regular STD testing. In these cases, symptoms may also develop around the rectum.

STD Testing and Treatment at Affinity Urgent Care

Affinity Urgent Care is a safe place to receive confidential STD testing, learn about safer sex practices, and find answers to all of your questions. We can also provide treatment for some STDs and will direct you to a specialist if we can’t. Our fully equipped immediate care centers in La Marque, Alvin, and Galveston, Texas, are led by experienced medical practitioners who provide compassionate and personalized care.

Other Resources

CDC Guidelines for STD Testing

Truvada for HIV Prevention

Affinity Urgent Care is pleased to offer Truvada for PrEP® (pre-exposure prophylaxis). This first-of-its-kind pill is designed to help reduce the risk of acquiring HIV-1 through sexual contact when combined with safe sex practices.

If you would like to learn more information about Truvada or our STD testing services, contact our friendly team at Affinity Urgent Care today or, just stop by when it’s convenient for you. We accept most major health insurance plans and offer reduced rates to self-pay patients.