There are over twenty five separate diseases that qualify as STDs. Sexually transmitted diseases are a huge problem in America. Huge. It is approximated that one in three people are positive for the virus that causes herpes. Think about that number. It's truly mind blowing. And yet on we go with our lives, only casually thinking about statistics such as these. Maybe that's a good thing. Maybe it's the only way to get from one day to the next. Another way to live stress free is to receive STD testing on a regular basis as to make sure we are healthy or at least keeping our infection in check with good healthy living and medicine.
Of all the STDs in America-and the world at large-there's a good argument to be made that herpes is one of the worst non-potentially fatal ones. Why? Well, while suffering through an outbreak it is possible that the world will know. Other diseases are not so obvious. With herpes, it is very possible that you will be wearing your infection on your sleeve, so to speak. Sort of like a twenty first century scarlet letter. And really, who wants that in their life? This is just one reason why testing is so important. Once one knows one's status, they can do their best to keep the illness from rearing its-quite frankly-ugly head.
Let's break it down, shall we? What exactly is it we are discussing when we discuss herpes? Herpes is a viral infection that includes a large variety of strains. For instance, how many people realize that chicken pox are a strain of herpes? What about shingles? Shingles are a strain of herpes, as well. However, today, when people discuss herpes, they are usually referring to two other distinct strains. And quick and easy testing is available for both.
The first one is called HSV 1 (herpes simplex virus 1). This strain is commonly known as oral herpes because it concentrates its symptoms in and adjacent-to the mouth. HSV 2 is generally known as genital herpes, as its symptoms are generally concentrated around the genital area, both inside and outside. This can include the shaft of the penis, the head of the penis, the outer or inner lips of the vagina and anywhere else "below the belt." Again, thankfully, testing is available at any certified STD clinic for these two rather popular strains of herpes.
What about the symptoms associated with herpes? There is no one exact science when it comes to symptoms. Symptoms vary in each and every individual. Sometimes, symptoms almost seem nonexistent. Although this is rare, it does occur and is another very good reason why testing is so important. Let's look at the common traits of the symptoms of herpes. The early, or first outbreaks, are typically more severe than the latter ones. Basically, as the disease matures in your system for longer and longer, the outbreaks become less and less severe. This is done very slowly. Do not believe that after several outbreaks the symptoms will no longer be obvious. This is just not the case.
Symptoms occur very quickly after infection takes place. In fact, be on the lookout for symptoms to appear just two to three days after initial contact takes place. These symptoms may be mild and difficult to detect, but the infected area of the body-either around your mouth or around your genital region-may be itchy, burning or tingly. This is followed by an outbreak of red blisters. Once these blisters break, they scab over, forming quite painful sores.
During this part of the infection you are very contagious. Be aware that even though the visible sores are such a big part of this virus that it is possible to infect someone else with herpes even when there are no sores present. It's hard to believe, but it's very true. Herpes test is the only way to definitively find out if you are infected with herpes. If the test comes back positive, there are many things you can do to protect against spreading the infection.
What about STD testing? Well, there are different means of testing available. These include a herpes viral culture, the herpes virus antigen test, and the polymerase chain reaction test. Only a certified STD clinic can recommend the right test for you. Whether testing the sore or a quick and easy blood test, results for herpes testing are highly accurate.
For those of us that who live in NYC there is an easily accessible certified NYC STD testing available to see new patients quickly-just log onto herpes testing NYC for more information. The clinic is located just several blocks from Grand Central Station and is highly professional and discreet. Call 1-212-696-5900 to arrange an appointment today. Let's keep America as healthy as possible.
