Every sexually transmitted disease is unique and has characteristic symptoms differentiating them from one another. Though there are common symptoms present in most of these diseases, these symptoms may differ in appearance and the time in which they appear during the course of the disease.
Some STDs don’t even show any symptoms, and if they do, they can be mistaken for a common allergy or any other ailment. So, it is important to use visual materials when presenting the symptoms of these sexually transmitted diseases so that people will know the difference of regular symptoms from that of STDs.
Syphilis is one of the most common STDs affecting a lot of people. Its characteristic symptom is cluster-like rashes called chancre which appear around the genital areas, especially the vagina or penis, and can even appear on the rectal area. These rashes may disappear after some time, but may reoccur in other parts of the body, especially the palms of the hand and the soles of the feet. Genital warts is another common STD, and is caused by the Human Papilloma Virus or HPV. These warts appear as pink or flesh colored swellings that are soft and moist to the touch.
These warts also vary in appearance, numbers, and sizes. They may be raised or flat, single or multiple in numbers, small or large, and they usually appear in clusters like a cauliflower. There are also warts that cannot be easily seen. When this happens, Acetic Acid is applied to the area to make the warts appear. The most common areas for genital warts are the vulva, vagina, anus, cervix, penis, groin area, scrotum, and thigh. Genital warts are transmitted through sexual contact or direct contact with the warts. These warts are not curable, though there are surgical procedures to remove them. Removal doesn’t guarantee a cure, and these warts can reappear.
Herpes is another STD caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus. Its most common symptom is a blister or sore that appears on the skin and can be mistaken for an insect bite or a common allergy. These blisters appear in small groups and may be painful. The first out break of these sores appear during the first 2-4 weeks of the disease. And even though the blisters are already healed, the scabs are still infectious. A second out break may also occur which is more severe and may be accompanied by flu-like symptoms and swelling of the lymph nodes. Crab lice are parasites that dwell in the genital organs and can be transmitted during sexual contact. These parasites hide under the skin and pubic hair causing intense itching and skin irritation. The affected area will also appear reddish and irritated. A severe skin inflammation may also occur.
Using a pictures of STDs on men and women can be a big help in knowing the characteristic signs and symptoms of these diseases. It is important not only in curing it, but, most importantly, preventing its transmission. These diseases can cause a great amount of discomfort and pain, and most of have severe complications. Proper protection is also important to prevent a person from contracting these diseases, and early detection is an imperative to initiate proper treatment.