What Are the Most Common STD Symptoms?
One of the most common sexually transmitted disease (STD) symptoms is no symptoms at all. It’s true! Some STDs—also referred to as sexually transmitted infections (STIs)—do not cause obvious symptoms in their initial stages or ever. That’s why it’s so important to receive STD testing on a routine basis 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 are more likely to experience gonorrhea (“clap”) symptoms than women. These symptoms may include:
- Burning or painful urination
- Swollen or painful testicles
- Unusual penile discharge
If a woman does experience gonorrhea symptoms, they are often mild and may involve:
- 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 are usually mild and 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
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)
HPV is the most common STD in the United States. There are often no noticeable symptoms, but warts may sometimes develop around the genital area. These warts may appear as small flesh-colored, red, or pink growths. Itchiness and bleeding may sometimes occur.
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. And, with extended hours every day and no appointments required, you can stop by when it works best for your busy schedule.
Other Resources
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 all major health insurance plans and offer reduced rates to self-pay patients.
