What You Need to Know About Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD)
Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) or sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are more common than you might imagine. Highly contagious, sexually transmitted diseases occur at a rate of 25 million each year in the United States.1 At Medco ER in Plano, TX, our board-certified physicians offer prevention education, testing and treatment for common STDs. Fortunately, most conditions are treatable and can be cured, though they may still reoccur at a future date.
Prevention2
The best way to prevent a sexually transmitted disease is abstinence from all forms of sexual contact.
Vaccinations are available for hepatitis B and HPV (Human Papillomavirus) but not for the other common forms of STDs.
Control and reduce the number of sexual partners you have. This doesn’t remove your risk and you still need to be tested regularly for STDs.
Agreeing on a mutually monogamous relationship with one long-term partner is another option that slashes your risks.
Use condoms according to manufacturer’s specifications each time for every kind of sexual contact to protect yourself against STDs.
“Prevention is the most important thing in protecting yourself against STDs,” said Medco ER’s Medical Director, Dr. Nasir Khan. “Educating yourself and having frank, open discussions with your partner is the first step in prevention.”
Symptoms
Early symptoms to watch out for include:3
- Infection symptoms: fever, sore throat, swollen glands, headache, rash, lethargy, night sweats, appetite loss, joint pain, body aches
- Pain: during urination, lower abdominal, during sexual intercourse, testicular, genital, anal, inner thighs
- Itching, burning or irritation
- Unusual discharge from vagina or penis
- Strong odor
- Diarrhea
- Weight loss
- Cough, shortness of breath
- Rash, bumps, blisters, warts, pimples or swelling in genital or anal areas
- Bleeding with sexual intercourse
- Dark urine
- Jaundice (yellowing skin or whites of the eyes)
Testing
Your provider will discuss the different test options that pinpoint different STDs, depending on your risk factors and possible symptoms. Testing could include:1
- Cheek swab
- Urine test
- Blood test
- Sample from a skin sore
- Cell sample or discharge sample from the affected area
Who should get tested? It is recommended that anyone who is sexually active should be tested every year. Having an open discussion with your healthcare provider is an important part of receiving the right testing at the right time. Sexually active women, pregnant women, gay or bisexual men, people who have had oral or anal sex and those participating in risky sexual or drug behaviors should be tested at least once a year or even every six months.2
When to go to the ER
Left untreated, STDs could cause ongoing poor health, organ damage, increased risk of getting HIV and even cancer or death.3
“This medical condition is not one to ignore,” said Dr. Khan. “Overlooking the fact that it is extremely contagious and can be easily transmitted to another person, the symptoms of most STDs will only compound if you ignore them. Come to Medco ER for fast, confidential help with your symptoms. We’re here to help.”
Get Help Fast at Medco ER
If you’ve been experiencing any symptoms of a STD, the expert team at Medco ER is ready to help you. Open 24/7, we are conveniently located and have in-house labs to identify any conditions that need to be treated. Our professional, courteous staff will make you comfortable as you enjoy little-to-no wait time to be seen by a board-certified physician.
Plano: 3960 Legacy Drive, Plano, TX 75023 (on the corner of Legacy and Coit Road)
Call us @ 469-747-0370