Sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs, are the most common type of infectious disease, affecting more than 19 million people in the United States each year, according to health officials at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. People who develop any of the early symptoms of a STD should seek medical care immediately to prevent spreading the infection to an intimate partner.
Asymptomatic
Most people who are infected with a STD do not experience symptoms during the early stage of infection. It is important to know that asymptomatic patients can still pass a STD to another partner, warn medical professionals at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore. To ensure a STD is detected early-on, sexually-active people should be routinely screened and tested for STDs. Questions regarding STD testing can be discussed with a local health clinic or medical care provider.
Genital Irritation or Discharge
A patient who contracts a STD can experience genital irritation or unusual discharge as early symptoms. The genital region of an affected patient can burn or itch and may appear red, inflamed or swollen, explains the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Men and women with STDs may also develop genital discharge that appears discolored or emits an unusual or foul odor. These early symptoms of a STD can be signs of alternate medical conditions and should be discussed with a medical professional immediately.
Pain During Urination
Pain during urination is a common, early symptom of a STD in patients, explains MedlinePlus, a medical information website established by the National Institutes of Health. Affected patients can experience an intense burning sensation while urinating, which may be accompanied by genital irritation or unusual discharge. These early STD symptoms typically become progressively worse if affected patients do not seek treatment immediately. Patients who develop pain during urination should discuss these symptoms with a doctor, as urinary pain can also be a sign of another medical problem, such as a urinary tract infection.
Flu-like Symptoms
General flu-like symptoms can arise as early symptoms of a STD in certain patients. These symptoms can include fever, chills, fatigue, body aches, headache, stomach upset or malaise, explains the U.S. Health and Human Services. Flu-like symptoms of a STD typically persist for several days or weeks and may progressively worsen until an affected patient receives treatment. General flu-like symptoms are a common sign of a number of different medical conditions and should be discussed with a doctor if they occur.
