Men are often reluctant to see a doctor regularly about their sexual health. However early diagnosis and preventative medicine can greatly reduce complications resulting from sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Unlike women, some men who are infected with sexually transmitted diseases might not show any symptoms of the disease. This leads them to not realize that they are infected, and as a result they don’t seek medical care, or worse, spreading it to their partners. Nevertheless, the lack of symptoms doesn’t mean that the infection or disease is not affecting their health.
Some of the common symptoms of Sexually Transmitted Diseases in men include:
- Pain during urination and ejaculation
- Burning sensation while urinating
- Colored and/or foul-smelling penile discharge
- Blisters, sores, or red bumps on the genitals and penis
- Need for frequent urination
Common Sexually Transmitted Diseases in Men
Although STDs affect both men and women, there are some that are more prevalent amongst men than women. These include:
Genital herpes
This affects an estimated 500 million people worldwide, and its symptoms include ulcers, painful blisters, itchiness and pain. This is one of the STDs that do not show any symptoms, although it can still be spread through skin-to-skin contact. There is no cure for genital herpes, although outbreaks can be treated with antiviral medication.
Chlamydia
Many cases of chlamydia go unreported simply because the infection doesn’t present any symptoms in some cases. But when the symptoms are present, they include penile discharge, pain when urinating, and lower abdomen pain. The disease is treated with antibiotics, and it can take about a week to recover.
Gonorrhea
The most common symptoms of gonorrhea include green or yellow discharge, testicular pain and burning sensation during urination. Treatment of the disease involves dual therapy. If left untreated, gonorrhea can increase the chances of the person getting HIV.
Genital Wart/HPV (Human Papilloma Virus)
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) can at times cause genital warts, and its symptoms include itching and swelling of small areas on the penis, and growth of cauliflower-shaped warts. Treatment of genital warts includes topical application of medication on the affected areas, and/or surgical removal of the warts. Currently there are no Human Papilloma Virus tests available for men.
Trichomoniasis
Commonly known as Trich, trichomoniasis rarely presents any symptoms. But when the symptoms are present, they include discharge from the penis, itching, burning and painful urination. Treatment for this infection usually involves antibiotics. Note that after the treatment, it is vital to be retested three months after. This is because it is estimated that about 20% of people infected with trichomoniasis get re-infected three months post treatment.
Diagnosis for STDs
Taking charge of your sexual health by having regular testing for STDs is highly recommended. While in the doctor’s office, you’ll need to tell the specialist about your sexual history, as well as any symptoms that may be present. This is especially when one is not in a long-term or monogamous relationship. For a definite diagnosis, most STD tests involve urine samples and blood tests.
Possible Complications of Sexually Transmitted Diseases
STDs are more common than one might think, and definitely you won’t be the first person to have an infection, whether viral or bacterial. On the other hand, there are some STDs that can cause complications in other areas of the body other than the private parts. Some of the common complications caused by STDs include:
- Pelvic pain
- Eyes inflammations
- Cancers related to HPV like rectal cancer
- Infertility
- Heart disease
- Arthritis
Next Steps
At King’s College Hospital Dubai, we focus on offering an exemplary service, from initial consultation through to final diagnosis, treatment, and beyond. Our team of expert Urologists are here to offer tailored management and treatment of your condition, and to answer any questions that you might have throughout your time with us. Whatever you need us for, we’re only a phone-call away.
If you would like to book an appointment, simply fill in the appointment form below.
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