Do you have what it takes to be a STD candidate?

The following section discusses the eight most common STDs in North America, grouped by symptoms. Information on other sexually related diseases can be found in "Curing Vaginal Infections" and "The Persistent Threat of AIDS." The first group discussed here, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), syphilis, and chancroid, is characterized primarily by lumps, bumps, and sores. The second group, chlamydia and gonorrhea, is characterized mainly by vaginal discharge. The last section covers pubic lice and scabies, the hallmark of which is itching. Each disease has more than one symptom, but this arrangement will get you started. You can also check for additional details in the box on "Matching Your Symptoms to an STD."

Matching Your Symptoms to an STD

It is important for your doctor to know as much as possible about your condition, since, if you have an STD, you will want it to be properly diagnosed. Check the following chart and read the matching sections on the infection you think you might have. Then give your doctor as many specifics as you can.

If you've noticed:
Fever -----> Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Chlamydia, Gonorrhea

Flu-like symptoms -----> Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Syphilis

Hair loss -----> Syphilis

Itching or tingling in the genital area -----> Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Herpes

Simplex Virus (HSV) -----> Pubic lice, Scabies

Itching on the body -----> Pubic lice, Scabies

Lower abdominal or rectal pain -----> Chlamydia, Gonorrhea

Painful urination -----> Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Chlamydia, Gonorrhea

Rash -----> Syphilis Gonorrhea Scabies

Sore vulva ----> Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Gonorrhea

Sores or blisters -----> Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Syphilis Chancroid

Swollen glands -----> Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Syphilis Chancroid

Unusual vaginal bleeding -----> Chlamydia, Gonorrhea

Vaginal discharge -----> Chlamydia, Gonorrhea

Warts or other growths -----> Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

Last Updated: January 1, 2003
2007 Thomson Healthcare. All Rights Reserved.

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