STDs are certainly uncomfortable to talk about, but the fact of the matter is that more people suffer from these diseases than you might realize. In fact, the CDC estimates that one in five people have an STD.

Because STDs are seldom talked about, many are left uninformed about how these diseases work, what complications they can cause and if those who deal with them will deal with them for life. Our AFC Urgent Care Chattanooga team is here to provide some helpful information about STDs, so keep reading.

What Are STDs?

STDs are infections that are spread from one person to another, usually during vaginal, anal or oral sex. As we said earlier, they’re quite common, but lots of people who have them don’t have any symptoms.

Without treatment, STDs can lead to serious health problems. But the good news is that getting tested is no big deal, and most STDs are easy to treat. We’ve listed some of the most common infection types below.

Common STDs

• Chlamydia
• Herpes
• Gonorrhea
• Hepatitis B
• Syphilis
• HIV/AIDS
• Trichomoniasis

Do STDs Last Forever?

Some can, and some can be cured. Bacterial STDs, such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis and trichomoniasis, are generally curable with existing, effective regimens of antibiotics.

Viral STDs, such as hepatitis B, herpes and HIV, cannot currently be cured. But treatments are available to relieve symptoms and make these diseases much more manageable to live with. It’s important to be regularly tested for STDs if you are sexually active with more than one partner, even if you aren’t currently experiencing symptoms. If you experience any of the symptoms we’ve listed below, get STD-tested ASAP.

Common STD Symptoms

• Pain or discomfort during sex or urination
• Sores, bumps or rashes on or around the genitals, anus, buttocks, thighs or mouth
• Unusual genital discharge or bleeding
• Painful or swollen testicles (men)
• Itchiness in or around the vagina (women)

If you have further questions about STDs or need to be tested, don’t hesitate to stop by our AFC Urgent Care Chattanooga center today!