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3 Minutes Read

Which Sexually Transmitted Diseases Are The Hardest To Treat?

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are infections that are passed on from one person to another through sexual contact. While some STDs can be cured with antibiotics or antiviral medications, others are harder to treat and can lead to serious long-term health problems if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss the sexually transmitted diseases that are the hardest to treat.



Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)

HIV is a viral infection that attacks the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight off infections and diseases. While antiretroviral therapy can help manage the virus, there is no known cure for HIV. Once a person is infected with HIV, they will have the virus for life.


Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)

HSV has two types, type 1 is oral while type 2 is genital. The most transmissible type is oral sex. While antiviral medications can help manage the symptoms of herpes, there is no known cure for the virus. Once a person is infected with HSV, they will have the virus for life. If you have a current outbreak or have a recent outbreak, refrain from all sexual activity.


Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

There are 9 types of HPV. These viral infections cause cervical cancer in women that is only detected by a cervical swab test. Cervical screening begins at age 21 when a woman has been sexually active for at least 4-5 years. They also cause throat and rectal cancer in men, though there are no current screening tests for men. While there is no cure for HPV, there are vaccines being offered beginning at age 10. Three full doses are required to be considered fully vaccinated.

Hepatitis B and C

Hepatitis B and C are viral infections that attack the liver. While antiviral medications can help manage the virus, there is no known cure for either hepatitis B or C. If left untreated, hepatitis B and C can lead to serious liver damage, including cirrhosis and liver cancer.


Syphilis

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can cause serious long-term health problems if left untreated, including brain damage, blindness, and even death. While syphilis can be cured with antibiotics, it can be difficult to diagnose in its early stages and can easily be spread to sexual partners.


Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a bacterial infection that can cause serious long-term health problems if left untreated, including infertility in both men and women. While gonorrhea can be cured with antibiotics, it is becoming increasingly resistant to certain types of antibiotics, making it harder to treat.


Chlamydia

Chlamydia is a bacterial infection that can cause serious long-term health problems if left untreated, including infertility in both men and women. While chlamydia can be cured with antibiotics, it is often asymptomatic, meaning that many people who are infected may not even know they have it.


In conclusion, while all sexually transmitted diseases can be serious, some are harder to treat than others. It is important to practice safe sex and get tested regularly to help prevent the spread of these infections and ensure early diagnosis and treatment. If you suspect you may have an STD, seek medical attention as soon as possible to help prevent long-term health problems.


If you or someone you know is concerned about possible infection, please contact your physician or IMG Health Clinic immediately.

STDs

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