The incidence rates of transmitted infections through unprotected intercourse have been on the rise due to factors such as ignorance and irresponsibility. Nevertheless, many people are not comfortable discussing their activities behind closed doors. Their discomfort may keep them from getting screened, diagnosed, or treated for STIs, which should not be the case. Public health campaigns are effective in educating people on ways of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of such infections and diseases.
Timely diagnosis
Symptoms include abnormal discharge, blisters, or warts in the genital areas. One should seek medical attention at the onset of such symptoms. Identifying symptoms has been made easier by technological advancements. For example, there are dependable online herpes diagnosis platforms that people may rely on to screen themselves.
Online diagnosis is advantageous in that one can perform the test privately at home by using a home STI kit. The results are therefore confidential and one can perform the test at any time.
Fluid tests from sores, urine tests, and blood tests are used in the diagnosis of an STI. Some infections such as gonorrhea and chlamydia show no symptoms in the early stages. However, they can be diagnosed through screening. The development of rapid tests can help in achieving accurate test results.
Minimal training is required for the usage of the tests because they are easy to use. Rapid tests provide test results within 15 to 20 minutes, and tests are currently available for syphilis and HIV diagnosis. Rapid tests have improved the diagnosis and treatment of many infections and illnesses.
Treatment
Effective treatment for many of these communicable diseases is currently available. Illnesses caused by strains of bacteria such as chlamydia are curable by administering antibiotics. However, antimicrobial resistance to antibiotics has rapidly increased leading to reduced treatment options. Therefore, the need for prevention, prompt diagnosis, and treatment is critical.
HIV and herpes, on the other hand, are caused by viruses and are incurable. Antiviral drugs are the most effective medication for such. They help to modulate the effects and causes of the disease by weakening the viruses and preventing them from multiplying. In doing so, they prevent viruses from attacking healthy body cells and boost the body’s immune system. For instance, antiviral medication for hepatitis B can fight the virus and slow down liver damage.
Protection and vaccination
Protection from contracting an STI will save you the pain of itchy sores, discomfort, and undergoing treatment. The use of condoms during intercoyrse offers significant protection against such viral infections. Vaccination against certain strains of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is necessary for the prevention of cervical cancer and genital warts caused by these viruses.
Aside from all this, people who are at high risk of contracting the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) should take pre-exposure prophylaxis drugs. An oral medication exists that nearly eliminates the chances of contracting the virus when taken daily and correctly. People who come into contact with an infected person should take post-exposure prophylaxis to reduce the chances of contracting HIV after exposure. Additional protective measures should be taken to avoid contracting the virus.
Most people view STIs as embarrassing diseases and do not seek medical help when symptoms occur, which is not right. Seeking medical help is necessary. Taking care of your health is paramount for you to be able to live a satisfying life.
