|
|
Health Education On-line
Materials contained on-line have been developed by Penn State health and medical staff. Articles are designed to provide general health information and suggested treatment. If you have concerns about your health, it is important that you seek advice and treatment from a healthcare professional.
- Frequently Asked Medical Questions
- General Health Information
- Urinary Tract Infections
- Vomiting and Diarrhea
- Upper Respiratory Infections
- Sprains
- Cold Sores
- Sexual Health Information
- Frequently Asked Questions regarding STIs
- Sexually Transmitted Infections - Nothing But the Facts
How can I get the most out of my visit?
At some point in your future, you will need to access the health care system and interact with a health care provider. This could include seeing a medical doctor (MD or DO), a nurse practitioner (NP), physician’s assistant (PA), a physical therapist (PT), a chiropractor, or other professionals who provide some kind of health care service. The following are a few tips to assist you in making this interaction as safe and helpful as possible.
- It is best to be prepared to present your story or problem. Many health care visits are for a limited amount of time (generally 10-15 minutes). So to make the best use of this limited time, go to the visit with your symptoms, problems, and concerns organized and prioritized. If you have more than one problem, it is best to discuss the most important or concerning problem first because you may have only enough time to deal with one problem and may be asked to reschedule to deal with any others. The other alternative is to ask for an extended appointment when making the appointment. Information you may be asked to give about any problems are: specific symptoms, when and how often they occur, severity of the symptom(s), and any triggering factors or associated events. Be as specific as possible. Also, make sure the health care provider knows all the medications you are taking including birth control medications, vitamins, supplements, herbals, and any other nonprescription medicines. Tell them if you have ever had any reaction or side effect to any medication in the past.
- Go with a list of questions you would like answers to concerning your problem(s). With the anxiety of being in a medical exam room, and if the health care provider is rushed, you may forget questions you had or get off track. It is a good idea to write down on paper important symptoms, information, and questions to keep handy during the visit.
- Make sure you know and understand the diagnosis and treatment plan being given to you before the health care provider concludes the visit. The following are particularly important:
- Know the diagnosis (what the health care provider thinks the problem is).
- Know the name and directions for all medications that are prescribed for you.
- Follow all directions as given.
- Don’t share prescription medications (others may have reactions to medications not specifically prescribed for them).
- Don’t take expired medications (most just lose potency when they have expired, but some can harm you if taken after they have expired).
- Keep medications in a safe place, especially if children are around (don’t count on the childproof caps always keeping kids out of medicine bottles).
You have rights as a patient and health care consumer. These rights include: safe, quality care; respectful treatment; informed consent before any medical procedure is performed on you; access to your medical records; and the right to a second opinion. Hopefully, you will not have to use the health care system very often, but if you do need to access it, this information will help to insure a successful and safe outcome for you.
Back to the Top
What is the difference between a registered nurse and a nurse practitioner?
A R.N. is a registered nurse who has completed a 2- or 4-year degree in Nursing Science. R.N.’s work in offices, hospitals, and schools delivering and assisting with patient care and patient education. Many nurses in college health have completed a certification as a specialist in college nursing. You will see that they have a C. after their R.N. title.
Nurse Practitioners (N.P.s) have 2 years of additional training after their R.N. certification plus a clinical internship. The additional education they receive focuses on physical assessment, diagnosis and treatment. Many N.P.’s have their Master’s degree in nursing as well as their N.P. certification. N.P.’s may have a specialty field such as gynecology, family medicine, or geriatrics. In most states, N.P.’s can prescribe medications. They may practice independently or under a physician’s supervision, depending on state laws. In Pennsylvania, N.P.’s can function independently and can prescribe medications.
Health Services employs an excellent team of R.N.’s and N.P.’s to meet the varying needs of our student population.
Back to the Top
Why do they always take my temperature and blood pressure when I see a clinician?
Temperature, pulse, respirations and blood pressure are called “vital signs.” These vital signs aid the provider in evaluating your health. Temperature is measured at health services with an electronic thermometer that is very accurate. Body temperature tends to fluctuate throughout the day, peaking in the late afternoon. Normal temperature variations are from 96.8-99.5° F (36-37.5°C). Abnormal readings are helpful to assess infections and other diseases.
Pulse reveals the heart rate and rhythm. Normal pulse rate is usually between 60-100 beats per minute. Pulse rates less than 60 are common in athletes and in people taking certain medications. Exercise, stress, fear, caffeine, fever, shock, and other drugs (Sudafed) can increase the pulse rate.
Respirations are the measurement of breathing. Normal rate is between 12-20 breaths per minute. This measurement is very important in evaluating anyone with lung problems (e.g. asthma).
Blood pressure measurements tell the provider how well the heart is functioning. The blood pressure reading consists of two numbers. The systolic is the top number which indicates the amount of pressure your heart exerts when it is contracted. The bottom number, diastolic, is the pressure readings when your heart is relaxed. Normal blood pressure readings are 100-139 systolic and 60-89 diastolic. Hypertension or elevated blood pressure, often has no symptoms, and is called the “silent killer.” Low blood pressure can indicate dehydration or shock. It is important to check your vital signs as a screening device. It will assist the clinician in his/her evaluation and will serve as a baseline for future visits.
Back to the Top
General Health Information
Urinary Tract Infections
What causes UTIs?
Urinary tract infections are usually caused by bacteria that normally live in our digestive system getting into the bladder. UTIs are much more frequent in women than men, largely due to anatomical differences.
Back to the Top
What are the symptoms of lower urinary tract infections?
Most women exhibit some of the following:
- Burning or pain on urination
- Urgent need to urinate
- Urinating small amounts
- Frequently having to get up at night to urinate
- Pressure or cramps in the middle of the lower abdomen
- Fever usually absent
- Occasionally blood in the urine
- What contributes to UTIs?
Common conditions that may alter normal functioning and make you more susceptible to a urinary tract infection are:
- Sexual intercourse
- Poor hygiene
- Pregnancy
- Ignoring or resisting the urge to urinate
- Lowered resistance to infection (poor general health, other illness, stress, etc.)
Back to the Top
How are UTIs diagnosed?
To diagnose a urinary tract infection, your healthcare provider will ask for a urine sample to send to the laboratory for analysis. The presence of infection fighting white blood cells (WBCs), red blood cells (RBCs), bacteria, or nitrites (a waste product of bacterial growth) in the urine sample support the diagnosis of UTI.
Back to the Top
How are UTIs treated?
You will be started on an antibiotic if your symptoms and urinalysis indicate a lower urinary tract infection.
- Take ALL of the antibiotic as prescribed even if symptoms disappear.
- Drink plenty of fluids because the increased urine volume flushes the organisms from the bladder.
- Limit the amount of mild and fruit juices (except cranberry juice) which alkalinized the urine making the antibiotic less effective.
A bladder pain medication (e.g. phenazopyridine) is occasionally prescribed for severe burning with urination. This medication may change the color of the urine
to red-orange or brown.
Note: Because of a slight increase in pregnancy risk, patients using the oral contraceptive pill should use a condom or other back up method during any cycle while taking antibiotics. Antibiotics may also increase your risk of getting a vaginal yeast infection.
Back to the Top
How can I prevent UTIs?
After having one urinary tract infection, you may be susceptible to recurrences; however, there are some things you can do to help prevent getting another UTI:
- Empty your bladder immediately after intercourse
- Wipe from front to back following urination or bowel movement
- Avoid resisting the urge to urinate
- Always empty your bladder completely and often
- Wear 100% cotton underwear
- Treat any vaginal infection promptly
When to call to schedule an appointment.
- If symptoms do not improve in 2 days
- If fever develops or persists after 2 days of treatment
- If you have nausea or vomiting
- If you have side or back pain
- If symptoms return after treatment
Back to the Top
Vomiting and Diarrhea
What causes vomiting and diarrhea?
Most vomiting and diarrhea are caused by “gastroenteritis,” an inflammation in the intestines caused by a virus or bacteria. It may be associated with mild abdominal cramping.
Back to the Top
Are vomiting and diarrhea contagious?
Yes. Wash hands well after using the bathroom.
Back to the Top
How should I treat vomiting and diarrhea?
The best cure is to put your stomach and intestines at rest.
It is important to follow a special diet to prevent becoming dehydrated from vomiting, diarrhea, or fever.
No food or fluids for two hours after vomiting.
After two hours or resting the stomach, take two ounces of clear liquids each hour for 3-4 hours, then increase to 4 ounces per hour for 3-4 hours. If vomiting subsides, continue to gradually increase clear liquids; if not, repeat above instructions.
For diarrhea only, push clear liquids as tolerated, a minimum of 2-3 quarts per day. Some examples of clear liquids are as follows:
- Water, ice chips, Popsicles (not creamy)
- Flat, carbonated soda
- Weak tea, plain broth
- Kool-Aid, Gatorade
- Jell-O (plain) or jell strained fruit juice (non citrus only)
When vomiting stops, and/or diarrhea slows down, begin a bland diet:
- Bananas
- Cooked pasta, rice
- Toast/white bread
- Soft boiled/poached egg
- Plain crackers
- Applesauce
- Soup with noodles
- Cream of Wheat/oatmeal (made with water)
Avoid dairy products/meat for at least 36 hours, large meals, coffee, alcohol, fatty, fried, greasy foods (hamburgers, hot dogs, hoagies), highly seasoned or spiced foods (pizza, tomato products), salad dressing, oil, butter, raw vegetables until well. (1-2 days of bland diet). If vomiting/diarrhea come back, resume clear liquid diet.
Rest as much as possible. Resting in bed helps to decrease diarrhea.
Avoid smoking.
If medication is ordered take as directed.
Back to the Top
When should I seek follow up care?
- Signs of dehydration such as small amounts of dark urine or no urine for 8 hours, no tears, and/or you become very dizzy when you stand up.
- If you are vomiting so much you cannot keep anything down for 24 hours.
- Fever lasting 48-72 hours or greater than 103°.
- Excessive drowsiness.
- Continuing headache or neck stiffness.
- Increased stomach pain.
- Diarrhea not getting better in 2-3 days.
- Bloody vomit or bowel movement (remember that red Kool-Aid or Jell-O can cause red vomit or diarrhea).
Back to the Top
Upper Respiratory Infections
What are upper respiratory infections?
Common cold: (URI, flu, virus) Usually caused by a rhinovirus resulting in fever, runny nose, moist cough, muscle aches, tiredness, headache, sore throat and fullness in the ears lasting 7-10 days. Antibiotics do not help.
Antibiotics and the Common Cold
No medicine exists that will kill or stop the growth of the viruses that cause the common cold. Allow your body to get rid of the virus in its own way. Reasons for not taking antibiotics for a common cold:
- They just don’t help.
- Beneficial bacteria are killed leading to yeast infections and diarrhea.
- Bacteria become resistant to antibiotics: when you are sick with a bacterial infection, that antibiotic may not be effective.
- Antibiotics may cause rashes.
- Antibiotics are expensive.
When antibiotics are not prescribed, remember these important reasons!
- Tonsillitis: (strep throat, pharyngitis) An infection of the throat and/or tonsils usually caused by viruses but occasionally bacterial (strep). The throat appears bright red and swallowing is painful. Many patients have fever, headache, muscle aches, and occasionally white spots on the tonsils. Runny nose and cough are not common. Throat culture may identify “strep throat,” a contagious bacterial infection which requires antibiotics. Mononucleosis presents with tonsillitis and fatigue. Your clinician may recommend a “mono” test if your examination is suggestive of the tonsillitis is prolonged.
- Sinusitis: An infection of one or more of the sinuses surrounding the nose. If the opening to a sinus cavity becomes clogged, a bacterial infection occurs which requires antibiotic medication. Sinusitis has a variety of causes, including allergy, nasal polyps, deviated nasal septum, and enlarged adenoids. Most often sinusitis occurs as a complication of a common cold. Sinusitis may cause a feeling of pressure in the face, nasal discharge, and unpleasant taste in the mouth, pain in the upper teeth, fever, sore throat, or cough.
- Bronchitis: An inflammation of the bronchi (the tree-like structures whose branches serve as air tubes in the lungs). Bronchitis is usually caused by a virus, but can also be caused by bacteria or inhaled irritants. The cough eventually produces a mucus secretion called sputum which may last 2-3 weeks. Antibiotics are usually not prescribed, although other medications such as bronchodilators may help the cough. Your clinician will recommend what is appropriate for you.
Back to the Top
What are treatment recommendations?
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Humidify the air by using a cool mist vaporizer, taking a steamy shower, hanging wet towels in the room, steam inhalations (face bowl), or placing a warm, moist towel over your face.
- Use salt water nose drops (one-half teaspoon of salt in an 8 ounce glass of water or pre-mixed spray from pharmacy) to dislodge crusty nasal secretions which block openings into the sinuses and ears.
- Acetaminophen or ibuprofen (available over-the counter) can relieve muscle aches and fever. Follow the recommended dosage on the package.
- Do not smoke, and avoid second hand smoke.
- Oral decongestants may relieve excessive nasal discharge and stuffiness. Preparations without antihistamines are less likely to cause drowsiness. Decongestants make some people jittery, unable to sleep and may dry their mouth.
- Cough syrups containing dextromethoraphan may be used to suppress cough, especially if sleep is disrupted.
- Gargle with warm, salt water (one-half teaspoon in an 8 ounce glass of water) every few hours to sooth throat pain.
- Antibiotics are being prescribed for your particular infection. Carefully follow the instructions on the label. Antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of your birth control pills; an additional method of birth control is suggested during the entire pill cycle.
- Call if any of the following happens:
- Temperature over 102°F persists
- Severe headache
- Increased facial swelling
- Very large neck glands
- Red or painful joints or skin rash
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Difficulty swallowing own secretions
- Vomiting
- Blurred vision
- Persistent thick, yellow nasal discharge
Back to the Top
What is mononucleosis?
Mononucleosis is caused by the Epstein© Barr virus (EBV), which is present in saliva, so the disease can be spread by intimate oral contact, hence the term, the “kissing disease.”
Back to the Top
What are the signs and symptoms of mono?
Early signs and symptoms are sore throat, intermittent fever as high as 103°F, headache, muscle aches and pains, and usually marked swellings of lymph glands in the front and back of the neck and, perhaps, the armpit and groin. Symptoms usually persist for about 7 to 10 days. During this time, most people with mono require more sleep, but they do not need to stay in bed continuously.
Back to the Top
How is mono diagnosed?
Since the symptoms may not be very specific, accurate diagnosis usually requires a blood test. Positive test results may not occur until a week or more into the illness.
Back to the Top
What do I need to do to take care of myself?
- Rest. Do not jog, play sports or exercise. Do not ire yourself unnecessarily.
- Do not drink alcohol. Avoid alcohol for three to six weeks because of its affect on the liver.
- Avoid pressure to the abdomen. Do not lift heavy objects, play contact sports or engage in vigorous physical activity.
- Take Ibuprofen (Motrin or Advil) every 6-8 hours for fever and discomfort unless a health care provider advises against these medications.
- Increase your daily fluid intake.
- Practice good hygiene.
Back to the Top
Is there a cure for mono?
Most people recover completely without medication. Your provider may order a throat culture to detect the presence of streptococcal bacteria mono. An antibiotic may be prescribed to treat the secondary bacterial infection. The antibiotic is not a cure for mono; viruses do not respond to antibiotics.
Back to the Top
Sprains
What is a sprain?
A sprain occurs when the muscle, ligaments, tendons, and soft tissues surrounding a joint are stretched and sometimes torn. If the sprain is to a finger or other part of the hand, immediately remove all rings. They may have to be cut later if swelling occurs. Applying ice and elevating the injured limb will prevent or minimize swelling. Continue to apply ice to the injury during the first 48 hours. The swelling or bleeding is controlled with ice. After 48 hours, a heating pad or warm towel will speed up the healing process by increasing the circulation. If heat causes pain or swelling, return to ice. Wrap the injury with an elastic bandage or an Ace bandage frequently to make sure it is not too tight. The Ace should provide support, not restrict. Remove the Ace bandage at bedtime and reapply each morning. To apply an Ace bandage, always start wrapping beneath the injured joint, securely winding it up, around and above the injury. Restrict physical activity of the area. If visiting a medical provider, follow rehab instructions given to achieve complete healing. Depending upon the medical findings upon exam, an x-ray may be done to rule out a fracture. Crutches may be recommended to limit or completely restrict weight bearing on the injured extremity. Do not expect your injured limb to be back to normal for a minimum of 2 weeks.
Back to the Top
Cold Sores
What is a cold sore and is it transmissible?
Cold sores (fever blisters) are caused by a herpes virus. They are small blisters which often weep and scab. The fluid in the blisters contains the virus and you may pass the infection to other mucous membranes (eyes, genitalia) via this fluid.
Cold sores most often appear on the lower lip or the outer edge of the mouth. If you get cold sores, you were exposed to the herpes virus sometime in the past. The virus remains dormant for varying lengths of time.
The cold sores are precipitated by exposure to sunlight, fever, menstrual cycle, stress, or for no apparent reason at all. Herpes is a self-limiting virus and the cold sore will usually resolve within 7-10 days if untreated. Symptoms can sometimes be relieved with the use of Campho-Phenique, Blistex, ice, or cornstarch.
Herpes is contagious. You should avoid all direct contact (kissing, oral sex, etc.) Be sure to thoroughly wash your hands after any contact with the cold sore to prevent further spread of the infection in yourself or others.
If you seek medical attention you may be prescribed a medication (Zovirax) that usually shortens the duration of the outbreak or can briefly prevent new outbreaks.
Back to the Top
Frequently Asked Questions regarding STIs
What are sexually transmitted infections (STIs), any way?
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are the more than twenty-five diseases that spread through sexual contact. To learn more about the eight most common STIs in America, check out
Nothing But the Facts.
Back to the Top
Are STIs, other than HIV/AIDS, really a serious threat?
Several STIs other than HIV/AIDS (Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) are quite serious. Diseases like syphilis, gonorrhea, and chlamydia can have long-term consequences, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can lead to sterility and chronic pelvic pain. Human papilloma virus (HPV), the virus that causes genital warts, is strongly linked to the development of cervical cancer. STI infection during pregnancy can cause pregnancy complications and, in some cases, lead to illness in the newborn.
Back to the Top
Is it true that women are at greater risk for STIs?
Because of differences in anatomy, women are at greater risk of acquiring a sexually transmitted infection during male/female intercourse than are men. Women are more likely than men to acquire chlamydia in a single act of unprotected intercourse with an infected partner. These odds are twice as high as a man’s risk under the same circumstances. And because of the female anatomy often hides early symptoms of disease, women also suffer more severe, long-term effects from STIs, such as pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility. The good news is, women may get tested and treated if they have annual gynecological exams.
Back to the Top
Could I have a STI and not even know it?
Yes. The stealthy nature of so many STIs makes them difficult to diagnose. Many people with STIs experience no noticeable symptoms. That doesn’t mean that an asymptomatic STI will not cause problems down the road. So if you think you have a STI, see your healthcare provider right away.
Back to the Top
Can condoms prevent STIs?
More and more people are using condoms. Research shows that latex condoms, when used correctly, are effective in reducing the transmission of most infectious diseases, including HIV. One of the problems with condoms is that many people use them incorrectly or sporadically. Remember, no method except abstinence is 100% effective.
Back to the Top
What should I do if I think I have an STI?
If you think you have a STI or have been exposed to one, see a healthcare provider immediately. Timing is everything: beginning treatment early helps minimize long-term effects of most STIs. You also need to abstain from sexual contact until you are sure that you cannot pass the STI on to someone else. That means no sex with anyone until your healthcare provider assures you that you are no longer contagious. You also need to make certain your partner is tested to ensure his/her health and also to make sure you do not get reinfected.
Back to the Top
What exactly is safer sex?
Although no sexual act is 100% safe, safer sex involves finding ways to be intimate while minimizing the risk of STI transmission. This means preventing the exchange of bodily fluids such as blood, semen, and vaginal secretions, and avoiding any direct oral, anal, or genital contact. Safer sex means limiting the number of your partners, using a condom every time you have sex (unless you and your partner are uninfected and monogamous), and seeing a doctor or healthcare provider right away if you think you have a STI. If talking about safer sex leaves you tongue-tied, check out
Unspeakable.
Back to the Top
Is there a HPV (the virus that causes genital warts) test for men without symptoms?
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) is the virus that causes genital warts and cervical dysplasia (abnormal pap smear). Diagnosing HPV in men without symptoms can be difficult. It is also possible for men to think they have no symptoms when they actually do. A healthcare provider often can see small warts, particularly if they are right inside the opening of the penis. Those warts can be treated, but most men with HPV do not have any symptoms. There is no treatment for asymptomatic HPV. To learn more about HPV,
its symptoms, and treatment, check out
Nothing But the Facts.
Back to the Top
Can I test myself for STIs?
It’s not a good idea. While some STIs may present identifiable symptoms, such as discharge or warts, many are not easily identifiable. Even more are asymptomatic (without symptoms). At this point, diagnosing STIs requires clinical training or laboratory tests. Currently there are no home tests for STIs available, although this may change in the future. A home HIV test was recently approved by the FDA and is available. If you think you have a STI, talk to your doctor or a healthcare provider. To learn more about your own risk for STIs,
try The Risk Profiler.
Back to the Top
I’ve got herpes. Can I pass it on when I don’t have any symptoms?
Unfortunately, sometimes you can infect someone else with herpes, even when
you don’t have any symptoms. Doctors refer to this process as “asymptomatic
shedding.” The problem is that you won’t know when this is happening. Reduce the
chance that you will give herpes to someone else by abstaining from sex or using
barrier protection such as condoms if you do have sex. Consult
Nothing But the Facts
to learn more about herpes or
Unspeakable to learn more about how to speak to your partner about safer sex and STIs.
Back to the Top
Sexually Transmitted Infections - Nothing But the Facts
Chlamydia
- Prevalence
- 2 million new cases each year
- highest incidence in 15-24 age group
- 10-29% of teenage women and 10% of teenage men have Chlamydia
- Symptoms
- If any appear, they will show up approximately 7-21 days after being exposed.
- Women
75% of women with Chlamydia have NO symptoms
Symptoms include:
- Discharge from the vagina
- Bleeding between periods
- Pain or dull ache from abdomen
- Burning or pain when you urinate
- Burning or pain during intercourse
- Men
50% of men with Chlamydia have NO symptoms
Symptoms can include:
- Watery, white or yellow discharge from the penis
- Burning or pain when you urinate
- Mild discomfort in penis
How do you get Chlamydia?
Vaginal, anal oral sex with someone who has Chlamydia.
How can I know for sure that I am infected?
You need to get tested by your health care provider. The doctor or nurse practitioner will do a simple test to see if you are infected.
Is it curable?
Yes, Chlamydia can be cured with antibiotics; partners should be treated at the same time. It is very important to get tested once a year, if you are sexually active, or every time you have a new sexual partner.
What happens if I don’t get treated?
- You can give Chlamydia to anyone you have sexual contact with.
- In women you can get Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID can lead to tubal scarring, infertility and tubal pregnancy, which could cause death. Reproductive organs can be damaged.
- Both men and women may not be able to have children. A mother with Chlamydia can give it to her child during birth.
How do I prevent getting Chlamydia?
- Abstain from oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
- If you do have sex, use a condom/dental dam each time you have oral, anal or vaginal sex.
- Only have sex with one partner when you both have been tested and are free from STIs and are positive that person is only having sex with you.
- Do not have sex with people when you do not know their STI status.
Back to the Top
Genital Herpes (HSV-2)
- Prevalence
- 1 million new cases each year, 45 million total cases
- Highest incidence in 15-24 age group
- 1 out of 5 sexually active people over 12 has Herpes
- Symptoms
If any appear, they will show up approximately 2-20 days after being exposed to the Herpes virus.
Women & Men
Some people with Herpes have NO symptoms
Symptoms can include:
- Flu like symptoms
- Small, single or multiple painful blisters on genitalia and/or anus
- Itching or burning before blisters appear
- Blisters can last 1-3 weeks, usually health within 12 days
- Blisters usually do come back, recurrent outbreaks
- Burning or pain during urination
- Swelling in groin
How do you get Herpes?
Vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has Herpes, and through direct skin to skin contact from the site of infection to the site of contact. If you have a cold sore and give your partner oral sex, you can give them genital herpes.
How can I know for sure that I am infected?
There is no reliable blood test for Herpes; the only way to know if you are infected is if symptoms appear. If any symptoms appear, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
Is it curable?
No, once you get Herpes you have it for life. The number of outbreaks a person will have varies from person to person. In time they can be very manageable. Some drugs can be taken to manage severe or frequent attacks. The average person has 4 outbreaks per year and can decrease as time goes on. In time there may be fewer sores, they might heal faster and be less painful.
What happens once I have Herpes?
- You can give Herpes to your sexual partners during an outbreak and sometimes even if not symptoms are present.
- A mother can give Herpes to her child during child birth and she might have to have a C-section if she is having an outbreak.
- You will need to abstain from sexual activities during outbreaks.
- At times when no outbreak seems to be present you should practice safer sex to help provide added protection.
- You can move the virus to other places on your body if you touch and infected area during an outbreak.
How do I prevent getting Herpes?
- Abstain from oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
- If you do have sex, use a condom/dental dam each time you have oral, anal or vaginal sex.
- Only have sex with one partner when you both have been tested and are free from STIs and are positive that person is only having sex with you.
- Do not have sex with people when you do not know their STI status.
- Look at your partner’s body before sexual contact; if anything looks suspicious do not have sexual contact.
National Herpes Hotline (919) 361-8488
Back to the Top
Genital Warts
- Prevalence
- 5.5 million new cases each year, 20 million overall
- Highest incidence in 15-24 age group
- 28-46% of women under 25 have HPV
- Symptoms
If any appear they will show up approximately 1-8 months after being exposed, but can appear several years later.
Women & Men
Some women and men with HPV have NO symptoms
Symptoms can include:
- Small bumpy warts on genitalia and/or inside the vagina and anus
- Bumps are sometimes cauliflower like in appearance
- Itching or burning around genitalia
- Warts go away, but can come back. Lifetime STI.
- Warts tend to grow in more than one area and cluster in large groups.
How you get Genital Warts?
Vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has Genital Warts, also can be through skin to skin contact with an infected area.
How can I know for sure that I am infected?
There is no test for genital warts unless a wart is present. Pap tests can pick up some abnormal cell changes that may be a result of genital warts. If either a man or a woman has symptoms they should go immediately to their health care provider.
Is it curable?
NO, warts can be removed with a number of different techniques (freezing, topical solutions, creams, surgery or laser therapy), but they can come back. This is a lifetime STI. The goal is for the immune system to control outbreaks, but you can still give it to others even if there is not an outbreak.
What happens if I don’t get treated?
- You can give genital warts to your sexual partners.
- Warts may go away on their own or they can grow and spread.
- A mother with Genital Warts can give it to her child during birth.
- Women are at greater risk of contacting cervical cancer (80% of all cervical cancer is caused by HPV)
- Men could be at risk for penile cancer.
How do I prevent getting Genital Warts?
- Abstain from oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
- If you do have sex, use a condom/dental dam each time you have oral, anal or vaginal sex.
- Only have sex with one partner when you both have been tested and are free from STIs and are positive that person is only having sex with you.
- Do not have sex with people when you do not know their STI status.
- Look at your partner’s body before sexual contact; if anything looks suspicious do not have sexual contact.
Back to the Top
Gonorrhea
- Prevalence
- 650,000 new cases each year
- Highest incidence in 15-24 age group
- Symptoms
If any appear they will show up approximately 2-21 days after being exposed.
- Women
Most women with Gonorrhea have NO symptoms
Symptoms can include:
- Thick yellow or white discharge from the vagina
- Burning or pain when you urinate
- Abnormal periods or bleeding between periods
- Cramps or pain in lower abdomen
- Swelling or redness of the throat
- Men
Some men with Gonorrhea have NO symptoms
Symptoms can include:
- Thick, white or yellow discharge from the penis
- Burning or pain when you urinate or have a bowel movement
- Need to urinate more often
How you get Gonorrhea?
Vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has Gonorrhea.
How can I know for sure that I am infected?
You need to get tested by your healthcare provider. The doctor or nurse practitioner will do a simple test to see if you are infected.
Is it curable?
Yes, Gonorrhea can be cured with antibiotics; partners should be treated at the same time. It is very important to get tested every six months if you are having unprotected sex and once a year if you are practicing safer sex and are sexually active, or every time you have a new sexual partner.\
What happens if I don’t get treated?
- You can give Gonorrhea to anyone you have sex with. In women you can get Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). PID can lead to tubal scarring, infertility, and tubal pregnancy, which could cause death.
- Both men and women may not be able to have children.
- A mother with Gonorrhea can give it to her child during birth.
- Can cause heart trouble, skin disease, arthritis, and blindness.
How do I prevent getting Gonorrhea?
- Abstain from oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
- If you do have sex, use a condom/dental dam each time you have oral, anal or vaginal sex.
- Only have sex with one partner when you both have been tested and are free from STIs and are positive that person is only having sex with you.
- Do not have sex with people when you do not know their STI status.
Back to the Top
Hepatitis B
- Prevalence
- 120,000 new cases each year
- Highest incidence in 25-39 age group
- Symptoms
If any appear they will show up approximately 1-9 months after being exposed.
Women & Men
Usually both men and women have NO symptoms
Symptoms can include:
- Flu like feelings that won’t go away
- Fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite
- Tiredness
- Jaundice (yellow skin)
- Dark urine, light colored bowel movements
How do you get Hepatitis B?
- Vaginal, anal or oral sex with someone who has Hepatitis B
- By sharing needles to inject drugs or for any other reason
- Contact with infected blood
- Kissing and other intimate contact.
- It is 100 times more infectious than HIV
How can I know for sure that I am infected?
You need to get tested by your health care provider. The doctor or nurse practitioner will do a blood test to see if you are infected.
Is it curable?
90-95% of people infected with Hepatitis B will fully recover. There currently is a vaccine to prevent Hepatitis B (you can get this at the Health & Wellness Center). Some people do remain contagious for the rest of their lives.
What happens if I don’t get treated?
- You can give Hepatits B to anyone you have sex with or share a needle with.
- It can cause permanent liver damage and death.
- You will need to abstain from sexual activities during outbreaks.
- A mother with Hepatitis B can give to her child during childbirth.
How do I prevent getting Hepatitis B?
- Get the Hepatitis B vaccine.
- Abstain from oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
- If you do have sex, use a condom/dental dame each time you have oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
- Only have sex with one partner when you both have been tested and are free from STIs and are positive that person is only having sex with you.
- Do not have sex with people when you do not know their STI status.
- If you have been diagnosed with Hepatitis B, avoid kissing or other contact until your healthcare provider says it is ok. Do not share needles with anyone.
Back to the Top
Syphilis
- Prevalence
- 70,000 new cases each year
- Highest incidence in 20-24 age group for women and 25-29 for men.
- Symptoms
Symptoms usually show up approximately 3-12 weeks after being exposed for stage 1 and 1 week to 6 months after first stage sore heals.
Women & Men
Stage 1 symptoms can include:
- Painless reddish brown sore/ulcer called chancre on the mouth, genitals, anus, breasts, or fingers.
Stage 2 symptoms can include:
- Rash, can be anywhere on the body.
- Flu like symptoms.
- Bumps and spots on palms of hands and bottom of feet.
- Some hair may fall out.
- May be sores in the mouth.
- Warts in genital areas.
Even if symptoms go away, without treatment you still have Syphilis.
How do you get Syphilis?
Vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has Syphilis.
How can I know for sure that I am infected?
You need to get tested by your healthcare provider. The doctor or nurse practitioner will give you a blood test to see if you are infected.
Is it curable?
Yes, Syphilis can be cured with penicillin; partners should be treated at the same time. It is very important to get tested every six months if you have had unprotected sex and every year if you are sexually active and practicing safer sex, or every time you have a new sexual partner.
What happens if I don’t get treated?
- You can give Syphilis to anyone you have sex with.
- It can cause mental illness.
- It can cause blindness and heart disease.
- A mother can give it to her baby or possible have a miscarriage.
- Increases your risk of HIV infection.
- It can cause death.
How do I prevent getting Syphilis?
- Abstain from oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
- If you do have sex, use a condom/dental dame each time you have oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
- Only have sex with one partner when you both have been tested and are free from STIs and are positive that person is only having sex with you.
- Do not have sex with people when you do not know their STI status.
Back to the Top
Trichomoniasis
- Prevalence
- 5 million new cases each year.
- Symptoms
If any appear, they will show up approximately 3-28 days after being exposed.
- Women
Some women with Trich have NO symptoms
Symptoms can include:
- Discharge from the vagina
- Itching, burning, or pain in the vagina
- Discharge smells or looks different (maybe green and frothy)
- Blood spotting in the discharge
- Swelling in groin
- Burning during urination and having to urinate often.
- Men
Most men have NO symptoms
Men can carry Trich with no symptoms.
How do you get Trich?
Vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has Trich.
How can I know for sure that I am infected?
You need to get tested by your healthcare provider. The doctor or nurse practitioner will do a simple test to see if you are infected.
Is it curable?
Yes, Trich can be cured with antibiotics; partners should be treated at the same time.
What happens if I don’t get treated?
- You can give Trich to anyone you have sex with.
- Symptoms can continue.
- Men can get infections in urethra or prostate gland.
How do I prevent getting Trich?
- Abstain from oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
- If you do have sex, use a condom/dental dam each time you have oral, anal, or vaginal sex.
- Only have sex with one partner when you both have been tested and are free from STIs and are positive that person is only having sex with you.
- Do not have sex with people when you do not know their STI status.
Back to the Top
HIV/AIDS
AIDS stands for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. AIDS is currently the leading cause of death in men between the ages of 25 and 44 in the United States. AIDS is the fourth leading cause of death in women in this age group. AIDS is caused by HIV, the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, which attacks the body’s immune system. Without immunologic protection, people with AIDS suffer from fatal infections and cancers.
- Symptoms
- You can be infected with HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, and have no symptoms at all. On average, it takes about 7 to 9 years for symptoms to develop. Most symptoms of AIDS are not caused directly by the HIV virus, but by an infection or other condition acquired due to the weakened immune system. Symptoms can include severe weight loss, fevers, headaches, drenching night sweats, fatigue, severe diarrhea, shortness of breath, and difficulty swallowing. The symptoms tend to last for weeks or months at a time and do not go away without treatment. Since these symptoms are commonly seen in other diseases, you can’t assume any symptoms is HIV/AIDS-related until you get laboratory tests. See a doctor if you think you may be at risk or if you have symptoms.
- Testing
- The only way to tell if you have been infected with HIV is by taking an HIV blood test. The test can be performed at an AIDS testing site, a doctor’s office, or clinic. HIV testing includes pretest counseling and an explanation of the benefits of testing. You may want to seek anonymous testing. When you undergo anonymous testing, you’re identified only by number, and you are the only one who finds out the test results. The CDC National AIDS Hotline, 800-342-AIDS, can help you find a test site in your area. Home test kits are available.
- Treatment
- There is no cure for HIV infection or AIDS.
- If you have been exposed to HIV, you need to tell your sex partners and anyone with who you have shared needles and syringes that they too may have been exposed to the virus. They should all be tested for HIV infection. Health departments can help you contact former partners if you don’t want to do this yourself.
- Anti-HIV treatment is usually indicated once the T-cell count goes below 500 (indicating a very weakened immune system).
- Therapy for the viral infection, with antiretroviral drugs, uses two classes of drugs: the nucleoside analogs (AZT, ddi, ddc, D4T) and the new protease inhibitors. Treatment is complex and is shown to prolong life.
- A major focus of HIV treatment is preventing other infections (opportunistic infection prophylaxis). For example, pneumocystis (PCP), tuberculosis, and systemic fungal infections can be effectively prevented, and all of these are big problems in HIV patients.
- Treatment of pregnant women with AZT has been shown to substantially reduce transmission of HIV to the unborn baby.
- Prevention
- HIV is spread two main ways: through unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person or through sharing drug needles or syringes with an infected person.
- Women infected with HIV also can pass the virus to their babies during pregnancy or birth.
- HIV is not passed by everyday social contact. Touching, hugging, and shaking hands with an infected person are safe. Some people think they may get HIV by donating blood. This is not so. A new needle is used for every donor, and you do not come into contact with anyone else’s blood. Donated blood is now always screened for HIV; therefore, the risk of getting it from a blood transfusion in the United States is very low. Kissing an infected person on the cheek or with dry lips is not a known risk. No cases of AIDS or of HIV infection due to kissing have ever been reported.
- Short of avoiding sex entirely, you can protect yourself by having safer sex. State with one partner with whom you have discussed AIDS and who is prepared to have safer sex. Latex condoms have been shown to prevent HIV infection and other sexually transmitted diseases. Personal items such as razors and toothbrushes also may be blood-contaminated. Do not share them with an infected person.
If you would like to speak with someone right away, call:
National AIDS Hotline
7 days/week, 24 hours/day
800-342-AIDS (English)
7 days/week, 8AM-2AM ET
800-344-7432 (Spanish)
|
|
