In the article, we talk about other types of venereal diseases. This time, those caused by viruses, fungi, and parasites of the genitourinary system. The genXone offer includes tests that allow the detection and identification of up to 20 pathogens causing intimate infections during one analysis. The offer of tests is available HERE.

HIV/AIDS

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is the result of an untreated infection caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The virus damages the immune system and increases the risk of contracting other viruses or bacteria and the development of certain types of cancer.

In the early stages, it is easy to confuse HIV symptoms with flu symptoms such as:

• fever,
• chills,
• swollen lymph nodes,
• sore throat,
• headache,
• nausea,
• rashes.

These initial symptoms usually disappear within a month. From then on, a person can be HIV-positive for many years without serious symptoms. Other people may develop non-specific symptoms, such as:

• recurrent fatigue,
• fever,
• headaches,
• gastric problems.

The treatment options available do not completely remove the virus from the body, but they stop it from multiplying and slowing down the course of the infection. Thanks to diagnostic testing and treatment, it is possible to live a long and healthy life with HIV. As the infection can be asymptomatic for a long time, it is recommended that people at high risk of HIV infection be screened once a year, even if they are asymptomatic. On the website of the National AIDS Center, information is available on how to deal with emergencies and where diagnostic tests can be performed anonymously and free of charge (https://aids.gov.pl/).

Trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis is a disease caused by a single-celled protozoan – Trichomonas vaginalis. This parasite is difficult to detect and may exist in the attacked organism for up to several years. The infection occurs during sexual intercourse, the use of the same toiletries and also in swimming pools because this protozoan likes a warm and humid environment. Symptoms of the infection in men are:

• pain or discomfort during sex or urination,
• penile discharge,
• itching around the genitals,
• frequent urination.

If left untreated, the infection can lead to inflammation of the urinary tract, prostate gland, and testicles and thus contribute to infertility.

Herpes

Herpes simplex (HSV) is a virus with two main types: HSV-1 and HSV-2. Both can be sexually transmitted. HSV-1 primarily causes oral herpes, and it can also be passed from one person’s mouth to the genitals during oral sex. In this case, HSV-1 can cause genital herpes.

HSV-2 mainly causes genital herpes. A symptom of infection is itching where the virus multiplies, followed by redness and blisters. The blisters break easily and can turn into painful ulcers. After primary infection, the virus remains dormant in the ganglia, where it can reactivate in the event of a decreased immunity. There is no effective cure for cold sores yet, but medications are available to help stop the virus from multiplying and relieve pain (such as acyclovir).

Mycosis

Penile mycosis is most often caused by Candida albicans fungi. These yeasts cause an infection of the skin and mucous membranes called thrush or candidiasis. The disease initially manifests itself with burning, itching and pain in the penis, and sometimes also in the urethra. Symptoms such as:

• red spots on the penis or redness,
• blisters filled with blood and pus,
• dry and cracked skin on the penis,
• pain during sexual intercourse,
• white coating and an unpleasant smell,
• pain when urinating.

Untreated infection can lead to yeast inflammation of the glans or foreskin, and in extreme cases to infertility, and even cancer. The treatment involves antifungal drugs in the form of topical ointments or systemic drugs in the form of tablets.

Pubic lice

They are small parasites visible to the naked eye that live on the pubic hair. Like head lice, they feed on human blood. Common symptoms of pubic lice include:

• itching around the genitals or anus
• small, pink or red lumps around the genitals or anus
• fever,
• lack of energy,
• irritability.

Untreated pubic lice can be passed on to others through skin contact, shared clothing, bedding, or towels. Once you’ve been diagnosed with pubic lice, it’s best to use over-the-counter treatments immediately. It is also important to clean the equipment and textiles with which the patient has come into contact.