Sexually transmitted diseases or STDs, are infections passed from one person to another through sexual contact. Many of these diseases have no symptoms, which make them particularly dangerous and difficult to detect.
Many people are unaware of the symptoms of STDs. Moreover, many symptoms can be mistaken for a less serious condition or something else entirely, particularly in men.
For example, a man suffering from an STD may attribute his sores and bleed to an ingrown hair or razor burn. In reality, these symptoms are typically caused by chlamydia. While this particular STD can be easily treated by a doctor and cured, it is also highly contagious. As a result, it can go undiagnosed for years and lead to other serious health complications.
It is important to keep in mind that while STDs do not discriminate based on gender, they often have different symptoms in men than they do in women. Therefore, to maintain your sexual health and avoid giving any of these diseases to your partner, you must familiarize yourself with the following symptoms.
Burning or Itching in the Penis
Burning and itching in the penis are symptoms of STDs for men. For instance, chlamydia is a common STD that causes inflammation of the soft tissues and pain. The urethra is the tube through which you pee, and it can be inflamed by chlamydia bacteria, causing pain in the penis. In addition, the burning sensation is often accompanied by an intense itching sensation, which can lead to scratching of the affected area, resulting in sores and bleeding.
Generally, when a person contracts STD, their immune system becomes compromised, allowing for an invasion of viruses, bacteria, or parasites. Burning and itching in the penis can signify that the body is fighting off an infection.
As part of the body’s response to STD, white blood cells are sent to destroy the offending organism. The white blood cells release chemicals, including cytokines and interleukins, which create a burning sensation. In addition to white blood cells, lymphocytes are sent out to fight the virus or bacteria. These cells create a feeling of itching.
Treatments for STD typically include an antibiotic regimen of one or more drugs selected to treat the particular infection. The antibiotic fights off the invading organism without destroying healthy cells and tissues.
