STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) in Men: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment And Prevention

Posted by Janae Mckenzie on Nov 2, 2017 in Uncategorized | 0 comments

These days, many men are suffering from several different types of STDs including genital warts, genital herpes, gonorrhea and Chlamydia. These STDs are caused by viruses, bacteria and parasites. Generally they can develop systemic symptoms and genital lesions or sores. However, some of STDs in men can produce no signs and symptoms. While some STDs can go away on their own, others may persist for life such as herpes and HIV infection. Unfortunately, there is no cure for STDs; but, you can control the symptoms by medications. And treatment for STDs should depend on the type of diseases and its symptoms.

What is a sexually transmitted diseases (STD)?

An STD, or a sexually transmitted infection (STI), is an infection transmitted during sexual intercourse. It’s estimated that nearly 20 million Americans were diagnosed with some types of STDs each year. People who engage in unprotected sexual contact or have multiple sexual partners are at risk of the diseases. Some of the most common STDs are chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. They are bacterial infections and can usually be treated with antibiotics. Otherwise, some STDs may cause no notable signs or symptoms and can be spread from person to person. Furthermore, they can be lifelong and not curable.

What causes STDs in men?

Some different types of microorganisms can be responsible for an STD. These may include bacteria, parasites and viruses.

The viruses that cause sexually transmitted viral infections are:

Herpes simplex virus (HSV)- oral herpes and genital herpes
Human papillomavirus (HPV)- Genital warts and HPV-related cancers
Human herpes virus (HHV)
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)

STDs caused by the bacteria are gonorrhea, chlamydia and syphilis.

Trichomonas is also a common STD caused by the tiny, one-celled parasite.

Moreover, infestations with parasitic bugs can be spread to others through sexual contact.

The genital herpes

What are signs and symptoms of STDs in men?

STDs mostly affect men by the following ways:

Cause abnormalities or sores on the genital organs (genital lesions)
Cause urethritis (inflammation of the urethra)
Develop systemic symptoms that affect the entire body

Gonorrhea and syphilis often cause local lesions or urethritis to the affected men. If untreated, the diseases can damage other organs and spread throughout the body.

HPV infections like genital warts can cause irritation and discomfort in the genitals. Herpes can cause genital lesions by painful blisters, or ulcers.

STDs that cause inflammation of the urethra are often associated with urinary tract infections. Common symptoms are:

A discharge from the urethra
Painful and burning sensation during urination

The genital warts

How can STDs in men be diagnosed?

If you experience any changes in your sexually activities, consult your doctor for a diagnosis. Depend on the characteristic physical findings and clinical history, he/she may find out what causes your STD.

Syphilis and herpes often produce visible signs and symptoms, which is very easy to realize. However, other STDs can be diagnosed through various tests to identify the organism.

Treatment for STDs in men

Treatment often depends on the causes of STDs. Here’s a list of common STDs in men and its treatment.

Chlamydia. The condition usually causes symptoms of urethritis in men. Also it may develop inflammation of the epididymis and testes. But you can treat chlamydia with antibiotics such as azithromycin.

Gonorrhea. It’s a bacterial infection that may lead to infection in the rectum and throat. Gonorrhea can also cause urethritis in men, causing a painful and burning sensation during urination. In some cases, the condition may be spread within the body, developing joint pain and rash. But gonorrhea can be treated easily with antibiotics such as cefixime.

Trichomoniasis. The infection can lead to inflammation of the urethra. But you can treat it with a single dose of antibiotic medication.

HIV. It is the most feared STD which can develop serious complications like dementia and cancers. You need to see a doctor for prescribed medications. This will help control the symptoms and prevent progression of the illness.

Genital herpes. The condition can cause painful blistering sores around the mouth (cold sores) or on the genitals (genital herpes). Genital herpes are usually associated with fever and swollen lymph nodes. Also, they are highly contagious and can be spread from person to person. Doctors recommend antiviral medications like Prosurx to treat genital herpes. Apply this cream within several days can help shorten the severity and duration of herpes outbreaks.

Genital warts. While some types of HPV are linked to several certain cancers, others can cause soft, fleshy warts on the genitals. Genital warts sometimes resolve on their own. However, you can also remove them fast and effectively by applying medications like Vidarox. Besides, boys are recommended to get vaccinated to prevent the risk of HPV infections.

Syphilis. The disease can cause damage in many parts of the body including the brain. Most common symptoms are skin rash, arthritis, swollen lymph nodes, kidneys and liver problems. But it can be curable with antibiotic treatment.

Syphilis

Prevention for STDs in men

These diseases usually affect sexually active men and can be spread to a partner during sex. Thus, every men should understand their sexual life to protect themselves from STDs. Besides, take these preventative steps to avoid receiving and spreading the disease to your partners.