Wondering about Your Careless Sexual Encounter? Get tested for HIV in Arlington

 

Even in the times of today when the problems related with careless sex have been trumpeted from almost every medical and government office possible, people are still engaging in it. Such irresponsible acts sometimes have severe medical effects on the health of these persons.

A few common ones are syphilis, chlamydia, herpes, etc. HIV is one among these too. HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus. This dangerous virus causes AIDS (Auto Immune Deficiency Syndrome) in humans.

How it does so

Once the virus enters your body, it breaks cells down in your immune system. These cells are your body’s protection against infections and diseases. Once they die, your body becomes extremely vulnerable to catching even the simplest of infections. Over time, you become sicker and sicker and ultimately you may die.

More than a million people in the US are living with HIV. Once it enters your body, it may be years before the symptoms start exhibiting themselves and you carry on with your normal life unaware that you have HIV. 

This virus stays in your body forever, till you die. So far, there is no cure for HIV but there are medicines that can help you stay healthy. In fact, this medicine can keep the virus in check for a long time.

In most cases, it takes around 10 years for HIV to turn into AIDS. 

If you have had a careless sexual encounter, you should get tested for HIV in Arlington at the soonest. In case your result is positive, you will be able to start with the treatment as soon as possible to keep this condition under control.

Ways in which you can get HIV

The HIV virus can get into your system through:

• vaginal or anal sex
• a needle with HIV-infected blood on it
• sharing an infected needle or syringe for drugs, tattoo, piercings, etc.
• exposure of an open cut or sore on your body to infected vaginal fluid, semen, or blood

In most cases, HIV spreads through unprotected sex. It can pass from an infected mother to her baby via breastfeeding or even in pregnancy or childbirth.

However, HIV does not spread through saliva. So, if you have an infected friend or loved one, you can kiss or hug them without worrying about it. 

If you are wondering how to get tested for HIV in Arlington, it is easy to do so by visiting an urgent care clinic.

All you have to do is walk in and ask for a test. You don’t require a doctor’s note. Most of these clinics have a full STD panel and if you so desire you can go through the entire gamut to be on the safer side. The testing is quick and discreet and the billing can be kept anonymous.

Remember, your safety is in your hands. If you want to enjoy sex, do so with caution and use protection every time.

For more information, you can visit stdexpressclinic.com.

How to Get Tested for STDs in Arlington?

If you live in Arlington or are visiting this beautiful hamlet nestled in the foot of the Cascade Mountains, you can easily undergo a test for STDs. You might be wondering why we are emphasizing on testing for sexually transmitted diseases. 

Well, having sex is no sin; but having unprotected sex and risking your health to deadly infections is a sin. And this sin you commit to yourselves. You jeopardize your own health by not being responsible enough to practice safety. 

Arlington attracts tourists from around the world. It hosts several community events. People of different cultures mingle here. Yet, one thing common among cultures is the taboo on talking about sex and its diseases. 

Yes, we know it’s not easy to discuss STDs in front of family or even your family physician. But that should not deter you from ensuring your sexual health. In Arlington, you can get tested for STDs at your nearest clinic. 

Why choose Arlington clinic? 

• The clinic conducts discreet tests. This solves the problem of embarrassment or “what will people think,” and others such issues. 
• The clinic is open all days of the week and on extended hours. So, if you are here on a short trip and have no time, you can visit after hours. 
• The clinic does not mandate patients to have an insurance policy. 
• You can walk in the clinic and consult a doctor without an appointment. Testing needs no appointment either. 
• The clinic harbors qualified staff and doctors. The lab is well-equipped. The place is dedicated to providing excellent care and guidance to patients who come here. 

That’s the reason when you are in Arlington, you have a golden opportunity to get tested for STDs. Discreet, affordable, comfortable, and quick testing awaits you here. 

Importance of testing in this “outbreak-filled” world 

In the recent times, we have witnessed a series of outbreaks of diseases. Starting from the Coronavirus outbreak, the world saw multiple strains of viruses threatening humankind. The latest one is the Monkeypox, which is posing a serious threat to Earthlings. 

Amidst these viral attacks, it is important to ensure your health. Is there a virus lurking inside your body? 

STDs are notorious for being asymptomatic most of the time. You may be infected and unaware. Over time, the virus can weaken your immunity. An already infected body is more vulnerable to catching the new viruses doing the rounds in the world. 

In today’s world, the emphasis is on building strong immunity. For that, you must ensure you are free of all types of infections, including sexually transmitted infections. 

So, when you come to Arlington, get a quick STD test done. Enjoy this lovely place without worrying about your sexual health. Let’s pledge to be more responsible for our health. For this, we must practice safe sex, speak up when in doubt about diseases, and encourage others to do the same. 

Infections don’t go away by themselves. They need treatment. And only a test can tell you whether you are infected and need treatment. 

Urgent Care Clinics – Right Choice for Women More Vulnerable To Infections

Any sexually active person who does not practice safe sex is at risk of catching STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections). However, studies show that the risk aspect is highest for young women and teenage girls. This is primarily because the cervical passage in women that connects the vagina and the womb are rich in cells that are particularly vulnerable to getting infected. As a result, even a single episode of unsafe sex can prove to be detrimental fo young women and teenage girls. 

Another reason is that young women may often be not equipped with the knowledge or tools to prevent STIs. They may also have no idea about how to access reliable information and methods for STI prevention. More importantly, they may not have the money to spend on STI screening or treatment at an STI clinic in Arlington. 

A key factor that deters young women and teenagers from accessing medical help for their STIs is that STI prevention centers are designed to cater to adults. Such settings may not seem comfortable or trustworthy for them. Even a judgmental look from a healthcare worker can leave young women feeling vulnerable and doubtful about the confidentiality of the screening tests.

STI clinic near Arlington on VA provides a neat and affordable solution to help young women access the information, care and assistance they require. Read on to know how. 

Safe and positive ambience 

The staff at urgent care clinics has seen it all and they treat every patient with utmost care, compassion and understanding. You will not be judged just because you came in for STI screening or because you are not accompanied by an adult. The screening process at urgent care clinics is unbelievably affordable, thereby ensuring that young women do not struggle to raise the amount necessary for testing. 

Every bit of information you provide while registering for tests in STI clinic in Arlington will be kept confidential. The information in it will not be forwarded to your family doctor or shared with your family. You will however, receive reliable information on how to practice safe sex and how to lower the risk of contracting STIs. 

Counseling relief for the affected

Testing positive for an STI can be a disturbing and distressing experience for most people. They may worry about possible complications and about other people they may have unknowingly infected. Counselors at STI clinic in Arlington will extend necessary support so that you can forget all worries related to the STI and focus on healing instead. 

The counseling facility is especially invaluable when it comes to informing your partner/s that you have tested positive for an STI. Healthcare counselors at urgent care clinics will help you gently break the news to your partner and convince them to get tested. Never keep the positive test result to yourself and deny your partner the chance to seek medical assistance before it is too late. 

Even if you do not have symptoms but you are still worried about harboring an infection, the best course of action would be to trust the experts and get tested right away.  

Do Not Hesitate To Get Tested For Chlamydia - It Is Easily Treatable

Reports say a vaccine for the most commonly sexually transmitted infection, chlamydia, has passed an early test on its journey to availability for the public. 

This should serve as good news as, according to the American Sexual Health Association, chlamydia is causing close to 1.5 million new infections every year.

Till such time we get the chlamydia vaccine in the market, there can be no compromise with regular screening. 

According to a doctor in Arlington, chlamydia screening is essential because it often goes undetected in the human body. “If left untreated chlamydia can cause serious health issues in both men and women”. 

• In women, chlamydia can lead to urinary issues, discharge from cervix, and pelvic inflammatory disease (a serious infection of the reproductive organs) that can cause infertility. 
• In men, chlamydia if left untreated can cause prostrate inflammation, scarring of the urethra and even infertility. 

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about chlamydia.

How is Chlamydia spread?

A person can get chlamydia through vaginal, oral or anal sex with someone who has chlamydia. A pregnant woman with chlamydia can transmit the disease to her baby. 

Who are at risk for chlamydia?

Sexually active people are at a higher risk. This is due to behavioral characteristics among young people. Gay and bisexual men are also at risk since this sexually transmitted infection can spread through oral and anal sex. 

How will I know if I have this disease?

Chlamydia, more often than not, does not show any symptoms. Yet, even in a symptomless condition it can cause serious health problems. If symptoms do occur, they may not appear until several weeks after sexual intercourse with a partner having chlamydia. 

Women with symptoms may experience:

• Unusual vaginal discharge or / and
• Burning sensation while urinating 

Men may notice the following symptoms:

• Discharge from their penis
• Burning sensation while peeing
• Pain and swelling in one or both testicles 

How will a doctor know if I have chlamydia?

Lab tests can diagnose chlamydia. In Virginia chlamydia screening test is available. You may be asked to provide a urine sample for testing or they may use a cotton swab to get a vaginal sample. 

Is there a cure for this disease?

Yes, there is. The right kind of treatment can cure chlamydia. It is however, vital that you must take all the medicines the doctor has prescribed for you. If the medication is taken as per instructions it will halt the infection and minimize the possibilities of getting complications later. 

Here is a warning.

You must refrain from sex until you and your partner complete the treatment. If you have been given a single dose you must wait for seven days after taking the medication before resuming sex. 

If you are sexually active, inevitably you will be exposed to pathogens. It is no wonder healthcare providers recommend testing. In Virginia chlamydia screening test is not an issue at all. You can visit an urgent care center with no appointment needed. Just walk in during extended clinic hours. You even have the advantage of same day treatment. 

What are the First 3 Signs of Syphilis in Men? VA Doctors Answer

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that can happen during oral, anal, and vaginal sex and skin-to-skin contact with the infected person. Syphilis is quite easy to get. 

It is a curable disease. Timely test and treatment can make you free of this infection. When left untreated, the disease can wreak havoc with your body in its last stage. 

Here are the first 3 signs of syphilis in men, according to VA doctors at the STD clinic. 

1. Sores

Sores are the first sign of syphilis. Also called chancre, this sign signifies the onset of the first stage of infection. This stage is infectious. You must rush to your nearest clinic to undergo a test as soon as you see a sore on your penis, anus, anywhere around your genital area, or around the mouth. 

Sores generally appear about 10 days or 3 weeks after you get the infection. Some may get it after 3 months! 

Sores heal by themselves. That’s why men think they are only sores and nothing really to worry about. Little do they know that the bacterium is still lurking inside their body, ready to strike again. 

2. Rash

Rash signifies the second stage of syphilis. It typically appears on the soles of feet and palms. These are non-itchy rashes, which are deceptive, as men think it’s only some skin allergy. 

3. Flu-like symptoms

Along with rash, you may get flu-like symptoms. Sore throat, fever, headache, body ache, and fatigue hardly ever make a person think this is about syphilis! But if they are accompanied by rash and you had unprotected sex a few weeks before, you now know what it could be. 

Act before it’s too late

The first three signs of syphilis should be enough to make you act and visit a nearby STD clinic. You can easily avail of treatment for syphilis disease in Pentagon, VA, through qualified doctors at STD clinic. 

If you fail to undertake a test and treatment at the first or second stage, the bacterium becomes dormant in your body. It can stay like this for years without showing any symptoms. This is the latent stage. 

If you still don’t act in the latent stage, then you are in serious trouble because the bacterium strikes years after, this time, causing horrible health complications. 

The last stage

The bacterium attacks your brain, heart, and bones. At this stage, it is too late to do anything. The doctor finds it nearly impossible to save you because the bacterium may cause any of the following terrifying conditions:

• Blindness
• Paralysis
• Tumors
• Damage to nervous system
• Death

Syphilis bacterium can stay in your body for decades! After showing the initial symptoms, it goes dormant (latent stage) if you do nothing. It becomes active again after 10 or 20 or maybe 30 years! By then, you may have even forgotten when you had that one episode of unprotected sex that gave you this infection!

Do not let this happen to you, gentlemen. The first signs of syphilis in men are so obvious, say VA doctors, you can’t ignore them. Get tested. Get treated. 

Why it is important to be aware of the issues related to STIs

Let us know some key facts about sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

• Every single day, more than one million STIs are acquired worldwide – and a majority of these are symptomatic, which means their symptoms do not show themselves.
• It is estimated that more than 500 million people between the ages of 15 to 50 have HSV infection.
• Resistance to the drug used to combat gonorrhoea is causing concern worldwide as it is an impediment to reducing the associated health problems.
• STIs can lead to many other problems, like stigmatization, cancers, pregnancy complications, and enhance the risk of one’s contracting HIV.

Aren’t these alarming?

Any sane person would appreciate the fact that most of these infections can be caught in infancy through testing. It is vital to go in for a complete panel of comprehensive STD test in Pentagon City if you have had a casual sex encounter and are wondering if you have been exposed to infection.

A method of prevention

Look, the adage ‘Prevention is better than cure’ stands true in all times. If you are averse to abstinence, which is the one failsafe method to avoid STIs, you must always have sex using a condom to reduce your chances of contracting an infection.

However, you must know that condoms will not protect you from contact with infectious sores or warts.

If you are unsure about how to use male or female condoms, here’s how:

Using male condoms

• You should put the condom on before making any contact.
• Put the condom on the tip of the penis and unroll it towards the base. If you are uncircumcised, pull your foreskin back first.
• You must leave some space for semen collection; say about half an inch, in the tip of the condom. Do remember to squeeze it to remove the air.
• Once you have ejaculated, pull out before your penis turns soft. Make sure the condom doesn’t slip off by holding it at the rim.

Using female condoms

• Read the directions given on the package carefully regarding the placement of the condom. 
• Try to push the inner ring of the condom as far as it can go into the vagina. The outer ring of the condom must stay outside the vagina.
• Now, guide the penis into the condom.
• Once you are done, pull the condom out very gently before you stand up.

In both cases, never reuse condoms!

If you feel that you were careless and inadvertently exposed to an infection, you can go for affordable STD testing in Arlington by visiting an urgent care clinic.

Points to know

Most STIs do not show any symptoms, and oftentimes it is usually quite late into the infection that one comes to know they are infected.

If, however, you or your partner is being treated for an STI, you must avoid having sex.

Also, you should urinate and wash your genitals with soap and water soon after sex. This helps to remove some germs before they can cause an infection.

It is vital that you get yourself tested for STIs or STDs at clinics like stdexpressclinic.com so that even if you have contracted an infection, it can be diagnosed and treated at the earliest.

When In Arlington, Get Tested For STDs At The Earliest

There is a reason why so much importance is laid on maintaining sexual health and using protection in case of sex with strangers. It is because if one does not do that, they stand a chance of contracting a sexually transmitted infection or disease.

Look at the statistics.

Every year, one in every four teens in the US contracts an STD. What’s more, by the time they reach 25 years of age, almost half of all sexually active people get at least one STD. Isn’t that alarming news?

What are these?

An STI or STD is a sexual infection that passes from one person to another via sexual contact. The most common sexual routes are vaginal, anal and oral. Apart from these, these infections can also spread blood or pass from the mother to her child during delivery.

There are more than 20 types of STIs and STDs. The most commonly prevalent ones are:

·       Chlamydia

·       Gonorrhea

·       Syphilis

·       Trichomoniasis

·       Public lice

·       HIV/AIDS

·       HPV

·       Genital herpes

The main causes behind these are bacteria, viruses, and parasites, and they can affect both men and women.

Basically, you can get it if:

ü  You are sexually active.

ü  You are a man who has sex with men – you are more inclined to catching STIs.

ü  You do not use protection, like condoms.

ü  You change your sexual partners frequently.

How to stay safe

With most of these infections causing quite a bit of physical and mental misery and some of them being deadly, it makes a lot of sense to be careful regarding your sexual activity.

Here are some ways:

Ø  Use protection – always!

Ø  Educate yourself regarding good sexual practices.

Ø  If you feel you are at risk, go in for Arlington full panel STD test. This will help you catch the infection, if any, well in time.

Ø  Try and limit casual sex, and wear a condom every time you are with someone new. Women, ensure your new sexual partner wears protection!

General symptoms

While many STIs and STDs do not show symptoms immediately and there are some that do not have any symptoms at all.

Here are a few common ones:

o   Sores or warts in the genital region

o   Unusual discharge from the vagina/penis

o   Fever

o   Abdominal pain

o   Painful urination

o   Itchiness in the anal region

o   Itchiness and redness in the genital region

Hardly pleasant, any of them!

You will be glad to know that some of these infections and diseases are completely curable, such as chlamydia, syphilis, gonorrhea, and trichomoniasis.

You must speak with a physician if you fear you have contracted an STI/STD. do not feel embarrassed about this and do not ever delay getting a test done. STDs caused due to viruses cannot be cured but medication can keep your symptoms under control and prevent the infection from spreading to the others.