STDs Symptoms in Men

Why should you know how herpes symptoms present? Well, the Herpes virus is one of the most commonly contracted sexually transmitted diseases among both men and women. And like a bad house guest…you can't get rid of it. There is no cure for herpes. Once you have contracted herpes, you have it for life. So, it is important to know what the symptoms are and what you can do if you think you have been infected.

It's Better to Be Safe than Sorry
You can't just look at someone and tell if they have herpes. Some people never even show signs or symptoms of having herpes. And since you can become infected with herpes from just a single encounter with unprotected sex, it is advisable that you always use a condom when having sex. If there is any chance you may have become infected, STD testing is advised to quickly begin treatments.

Herpes Symptoms
In cases of the first outbreak, symptoms usually appear within 2-20 days of initial contact and could continue for up to two weeks. Sometimes, the symptoms are so mild the Herpes infection could go undetected, so any time you have unprotected sex, testing is advisable. Sometimes, people who have had a history of cold sores or facial herpes may present less severe symptoms because of a partial immunity.

For most people, the first episode of Herpes is the most severe, especially if their bodies have not been exposed to any form of the virus in the past. As soon as the virus gets into skin cells, it immediately begins reproducing which causes inflammation, redness, and sensitivity. In most cases, blisters or small bumps may appear in the genital area. The outbreak is usually painful, itchy, and may burn or tingle.

For women, blisters may erupt in the external genitals, vaginal area, buttocks, cervix, or anus. In men, blisters may appear on the scrotum, penis, buttocks, thighs, in the urethra, or anus.

It is important to understand that there are more herpes symptoms than just the evident sores. If you have been exposed to the herpes virus, you may also experience “flu-like symptoms”, swollen lymph glands, headache, muscle ache, fever, penile or vaginal discharge, burning during urination, and lower back pain. Keep in mind, however, that more than 60% of those infected show no symptoms at all and don't even know that they are infected. This makes practicing safe sex and regular STD testing even more important.

Herpes Treatment
Recurrences of Herpes outbreaks are usually shorter than the first and less severe, but do happen – usually about 4 times a year. However, they may decrease in frequency over time and are usually preceded by warning symptoms. Many people live their entire life with herpes, treating only the outbreaks as they occur because as of yet, a total cure is not possible for patients.

However, herpes outbreaks are very treatable with various drugs. Sometimes, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications are used, as well as prescription antiviral drugs, such as Valtrex or Zovirax.

Why should you know how herpes symptoms present? Well, the Herpes virus is one of the most commonly contracted sexually transmitted diseases among both men and women. And like a bad house guest…you can't get rid of it. There is no cure for herpes. Once you have contracted herpes, you have it for life. So, it is important to know what the symptoms are and what you can do if you think you have been infected.