STD Signs, Symptoms & Testing

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cases of chlamydia are up 2.8% since 2013, and other common Sexually Transmitted Diseases like gonorrhea and syphilis are also on the increase. If you are sexually active, this should be a serious concern – and you should keep an eye on your health, especially if you have been experiencing any symptoms that give you reason for concern. Urgent care STD testing provides a quick, confidential, and affordable option for those seeking peace of mind.

STD Signs, Symptoms & Testing

How do you contract an STD?

Are you at risk for contracting an STD? Most people would say no. But even if you are faithful, your partner might not have been and could have put you at risk. And you or your partner could also have contracted an STD without knowing it and passed it on to the other – it can take a while for the onset of some symptoms, and some STD’s remain without symptoms until advanced stages.

Symptoms

You should make a doctor’s appointment if you are experiencing any symptoms that can be considered out of the ordinary, uncomfortable or concerning. This can include symptoms such as

itching
difficulty or pain when urinating
discharge

These aren’t the only symptoms that can signal an STD. Sometimes symptoms can also include things such as

nausea
headaches
lower back pain

Any symptoms like those above warrant a visit to the doctor or clinic. A walk-in STD test at an urgent care clinic in Omaha is the best option for those experiencing any concerning symptoms. Testing and treatment are available for those who may have been exposed to an infection, even if no symptoms are present.

If you don’t have insurance or are looking for a cheaper option, public health clinics (like the Douglas County Health Clinic at 1111 So. 41st Street, 402-444-7750) are good places to get checked.

Common STDs

Chlamydia

Chlamydia is one of the most common STDs and is highly curable. If you don’t treat chlamydia, however, it can lead to infertility. Chlamydia symptoms for women include:

Strong vaginal discharge
Burning upon urination
Pain during sex

Chlamydia symptoms for men include:

Discharge from the penis
Burning sensation when urinating
Itching or burning around the opening of the penis
Pain and swelling in the testicles

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea, or the clap, can infect the genital tract, mouth, or anus. This type of STD is most common among young adults. Gonorrhea symptoms may not always be present or mild. Gonorrhea symptoms for men include discharge or pain when urinating. In women, gonorrhea symptoms include bleeding between periods, discharge, as well as pain when urinating. In some cases, pelvic inflammatory disease may occur if gonorrhea is left untreated.

Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Human Papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common STD. The good news is that HPV can go away without treatment. However, HPV can lead to genital warts or cancer in some cases. Cancer as a result of HPV can take years to develop. The best way to lower your risk of contracting HPV is by getting vaccinated.

Syphilis

The genital area, lips, mouth, and anus are all of the areas that can be affected by syphilis. Initial signs of syphilis include a small, painless sore. However, this can lead to lymph node swelling and a non-itchy skin rash. Oftentimes symptoms are not noticeable. However, in some cases, syphilis will come and go until you receive treatment.

STD Testing

Many people avoid getting tested for STD’s because of embarrassment, fear or stigma. Ignoring symptoms or avoiding routine screenings increases the risk of serious health issues. A confidential STD test at an urgent care clinic in Omaha is the best option for those needing quick and private results.

You should know that the majority of STD’s can be treated with a simple course of antibiotics if the symptoms are recognized early enough, and if not, the results can be managed with the necessary lifestyle changes. It’s the responsible thing to do – for your own health and that of your sexual partner or partners.

Additional Reading:

UTI or STD: How to Tell the Difference

STD or STI, What’s the Difference?

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