The CDC estimates that there are close to 20 million new STI infections each year in the United States. With sexually transmitted infections so prevalent, there is a real risk that you may contract one of these infections if you have unprotected sex. While STIs are often asymptomatic, they may trigger a wide range of symptoms, which go beyond genital itching, painful urination, and an unusual discharge.
It is easy to put some STI symptoms down to another cause, but if you do not practice safe sex, there is a chance that these signs indicate a sexually transmitted disease. Here are five symptoms that you may not immediately associate with an STI but could well signal that you should seek STD testing.
Conjunctivitis
Often referred to as pink eye, conjunctivitis is an infection of the membranes lining your eyelids and covering the whites of your eyes. The conjunctiva takes on a pink color, your eyes produce a sticky discharge, you may experience blurred vision, and your eyes may feel irritated. Although a range of viruses and bacteria can cause conjunctivitis, the bacteria responsible for chlamydia and gonorrhea can sometimes infect the eyes if they come into contact with genital secretions.
Flu-Like Symptoms
If you have a fever, sore throat, muscle aches, and a headache, you may well have the flu or a flu-like illness. However, if you have recently had unprotected sex, there is a possibility that these flu-like symptoms are related to an STI. For instance, if chlamydia and gonorrhea infect the throat, you may experience a sore throat. Meanwhile, following infection with genital herpes, it is common to have a temperature and feel achy. A fever and weakness are also indicators of hepatitis B and flu-like symptoms can signal HIV and the second stage of syphilis as well.
Swollen Glands
Your lymph nodes, which are found in your neck, armpits, and groin, can swell following an infection, so it is not surprising that STDs may trigger swollen glands. Genital herpes, secondary syphilis, and HIV can all cause your lymph nodes to swell, so if the swelling persists and you have taken risks during sexual activity, you should consider getting tested to rule out these sexually transmitted infections.
Diarrhea
Although loose stools may occur due to a reaction to food, a stomach bug or a digestive disorder, diarrhea is also common if you are infected with HIV. Chronic diarrhea is usually present during the later stages of the infection, but even when newly infected with HIV, you may experience watery motions. If you have other symptoms indicative of early HIV infection, such as flu-like symptoms and swollen lymph nodes, it is sensible to take a blood test for HIV.
Skin Rash
There are many causes of skin rashes, but genital herpes produces characteristic blisters, which break open to leave painful sores that form scabs and heal within a few weeks. These blisters may appear around the genitals, thighs, and buttocks, as well as the mouth if you take part in oral sex. Meanwhile, syphilis produces a painless skin lesion at the site of the initial infection and once this heals, you may notice that a skin rash appears. This rash usually presents as red or brown patches on the palms and soles, though it can appear on any area of the body. If you notice an unusual rash on your skin, it makes sense to seek medical advice, so you can receive the right diagnosis.
Final Thoughts
Although conjunctivitis, flu-like symptoms, swollen glands, diarrhea, and a skin rash are often caused by an infection other than an STI, it is important to consider any other symptoms you may have and whether you have taken part in risky sexual behavior. If you have reason to believe you may have contracted an STD, it is always best to get tested. You may well receive the all clear, but with an early diagnosis of an STI, you can receive timely treatment and reduce your risk of lasting complications.