When you’re feeling under the weather, you may assume that you’ve simply caught the latest bug that’s going around. Especially during cold and flu season, symptoms like headaches, nausea, fatigue, or fever are easy to dismiss as a common illness. With any luck, you’ll take a couple days at home to rest and be back on your feet in no time – right? What you may not realize is that your flu-like symptoms may be signs of something far more serious: a sexually-transmitted disease.
STDs: More Common Than You Might Think
According to the American Sexual Health Association, one out of every two sexually active adults will deal with an STD by age 25, and yet less than 15 percent of young adults receive regular STD testing. With undiagnosed STDs potentially leading to severe illness, infertility, and other health issues, consistent, reliable STD testing is critical to your sexual health.
It’s not uncommon to contract an STD without realizing it, especially because many STDs have no detectable symptoms. Furthermore, because so many common STD symptoms are extremely similar to those of the cold or flu, it’s easy to misdiagnose yourself. However, being aware of basic STD symptoms can help you take the proper steps to protect your sexual health.
Possible Signs of an STD
While you may be familiar with the more well-known symptoms of STDs, such as painful urination and visible skin lesions, there are many other signs that are harder to pinpoint. Here are a few of the most commonly missed STD symptoms, most of which mimic the flu or a common cold:
- Chronic fatigue is a possible sign of several different STDs, including late-stage gonorrhea, chlamydia, and Hepatitis A, B, and C. You might think you’re feeling extra tired because of a few late nights, but if the fatigue persists even after getting good rest, it’s time to consider an STD test.
- A fever is an indication that your body is trying to fight off some type of infection and can easily signal an STD. Syphilis, HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia, herpes, and Hepatitis A all cause a spike in body temperature.
- If you’re experiencing nausea and vomiting, it might not be the stomach flu or something you ate. Instead, it may very well be HIV, syphilis, Hepatitis C, or Hepatitis A. Especially in cases where the symptoms persist past a day or two, it’s important to get tested quickly to allow for proper medical care.
- Body aches or a sore throat may signal a range of STD infections, with joint paint often indicating an STD that’s been left untreated for a considerable amount of time.
- Even headaches can signal a sexually-transmitted disease, such as herpes, syphilis, or HIV.
- Finally, many STDs are asymptomatic, meaning they show no symptoms at all. For this reason, regular STD testing is important for all sexually active individuals, even those that feel perfectly healthy.
Taking quick action can make the difference between simple treatment for your STD and more serious, long-term medical implications. Protect your health and future by committing to regular STD tests, as well as a proactive response to when you’re feeling under the weather.
Fast, Confidential STD Testing in Fort Myers
Get your peace of mind with a quick, accurate STD test from ARCpoint Labs of Fort Myers. Our lab is a trusted provider of professional lab services, including STD testing options. At ARCpoint Labs, our highly-trained technicians eliminate the hassle and stress often associated with STD testing. Your testing experience will be fast, discreet, and simple, completed in the privacy of our clean, comfortable facility.
If you’re experiencing flu-like symptoms and are sexually active, an STD test is a smart, proactive way to take charge of your health. Learn more about your testing options by contacting ARCpoint Labs of Fort Myers today.