What is Chancroid?

This is a bacterial disorder that is transmitted by sexual contact. It is common in tropical nations but rare in other areas of the world.

Location of Chancroid

Each of these ulcers arises in particular spots. The most common spots where these ulcers arise are glans (tip of the penis), shaft of the penis, Coronal Sulcus or the groove posterior to the tip of the penis, scrotum and Urethral Meatus or aperture (opening) of the penis.

In women, these ulcers commonly arise on the Labia Majora or outer lips of the vagina. In some cases, an ulcer in one labium of vagina may give rise to a corresponding ulcer in another labium. These are known as “Kissing ulcers”.

Chancroid Symptoms

This infectious disorder is marked by bubo formation, painful ulcers and painful chronic enlargement of the lymph nodes in the groin (Inguinal Lymphadenopathy).

An individual usually develops a small lump in the groin within a day or even a week or two after getting Chancroid. This becomes an ulcer within a day after its origin. The ulcer is soft, painful and its diameter varies from 1/8 inch to 2 inches. It has clearly defined edges though some are also seen with ragged borders.

The base of these ulcers is covered with a grey or grayish-yellow substance. They bleed easily if scraped or injured.

Approximately half of all infected men suffer from only one ulcer. Women are seen to have 4 ulcers or more.

Chancroid in Women

These ulcers are frequently seen to be asymptomatic in women. These may arise within the body and can go unnoticed. Women may not become aware of these lesions due to absence of symptoms. A medical study isolated the Haemophilus ducreyi bacteria from the urogenital tract of women who are healthy. This indicated that women may be the carriers of the bacterium which suggests why there is a low incidence of the condition in women.

In women, these lesions can be found on regions like

• Clitoris
• Fourchette
• Labia Majora
• Labia Minora

In women, the condition involves direct extension of the anus. It appears on the anus as a cleft encircled by hypertrophic growths. These may be mistaken for hemorrhoids or warts.

A person may be regarded as infectious due to the presence of these lesions. The disease has not been reported in kids born to women who have active Chancroid at the time of childbirth.

Chancroid Causes

This disorder mainly results from an infection caused by a kind of bacteria that is known as Haemophilus ducreyi (abbreviated as H. Ducreyi). It is a gram-negative bacterium that is generally situated in the spaces outside cells.

As aforesaid, this disease is generally spread by sexual contact. The bacteria may invade the sexual organs during physical intimacy, particularly at points where there is a pre-existing trauma, such a small scratch or cut. If the person is sexually active and has an improper sexual hygiene, he or she can be at greater risk of transmitting this disease.

Chancroid Diagnosis

These ulcers are generally diagnosed by physical observation and checking for inflammation of lymph nodes. An experienced doctor can generally make a prompt identification of this disease simply by looking at the sores or inflamed lymph nodes in the groin.

Chancroid Treatment

This condition is generally treated with the aid of antibiotics such as

• Ceftriaxone
• Erythromycin
• Ciprofloxacin
• Azithromycin

Antibiotic medications are typically prescribed to destroy the bacteria. Large lymph node inflammation requires draining, either with local surgeries or needle operation. In case of inflammation of the inguinal lymph nodes, a doctor will generally make a perforation on the surface of the ulcer skin with a needle or by cutting out the top surface. These are important for removing the infected fluid if the lymph nodes are still under the surface of the skin.

Chancroid Pictures

Here are some images of Chancroid that will provide you with an idea of how these ulcers look like. You may find these photos of Chancroid quite useful for reference.

Picture 1 – Chancroid
Source – magazine.ayurvediccure.com

Picture 2 – Chancroid Image
Source – mjbovo.com

Chancroid and Haemophilus Ducreyi

As aforesaid, the Haemophilus Ducreyi is the causative factor of this disorder. This bacterium is the major cause of this condition in Southeast Asia and Africa. It is also becoming a cause of concern in the United States.

Chancroid and STD

Individuals having chancroid lesions should be diagnosed to detect the presence of any other sexually transmitted diseases (STD) like genital herpes infection, HIV infection and Syphilis. Patients with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) must be particularly careful not to get this disorder as they have a weakened immunity that prevents complete healing of the sores. The transmission of this disorder can be avoided by using condoms during sexual intimacy. This infection is not generally life-threatening.

Chancroid Prognosis

These ulcers can get better without any external cure. However, some individuals may suffer from pain and drainage from their ulcers for several months. Antibiotic drugs usually clear up the ulcers rapidly with very little formation of scars.

Chancroid Prevention

This disorder can be prevented by avoiding all forms of sexual activity. However, a person may reduce the risk of contracting this condition by proper use of condoms. A person needs to keep wearing the condom from the beginning to the end of sexual activity.

Chancroid Statistics

In recent years, the practice of safer sexual habits has reduced the incidence of this disorder. In the United States alone, there are only about 143 individuals suffering from this condition on an annual basis.

Is Chancroid Curable?

This is a curable bacterial STD infection. Though extremely contagious, it can be cured with antibiotic medications. A follow-up examination should be carried out 3-7 days after beginning of treatment. On successful treatment, lesions usually show an improvement within this period.

If you suspect yourself to be suffering from symptoms of this disease, immediately get in touch with your healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment will help you evade further complications and make a faster recovery.

References:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001659/

http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/c/chancroid/

http://www.space-age.com/std/chancroid02.html

http://www.idph.state.il.us/public/hb/hbchancroid.htm

The post Chancroid appeared first on Prime Health Channel.

What Is Condyloma?

Condyloma the medical term for a condition known more popularly as Genital Wart Infection. This is a sexually transmitted disorder (STD) and mainly affects older teenagers and young adults. It is known to be the most common STD in the US and has shown a four-fold jump in the last two decades.

Who Gets Condyloma?

Condyloma affects both men and women. It is seen in people belonging to the 17-33 age group but is more prevalent in individuals aged between 20 and 24. Condyloma is not seen in kids. A child having genital warts is possibly a victim of sexual abuse.

Symptoms of Condyloma

Condyloma is usually characterized by the appearance of warts or swollen rashes on the body surface. The warts are usually small, elevated and are pinkish in appearance. Some people may also have grayish bumps on their body.

Genital bumps of Condyloma in men are usually hidden from view due to pubic hair around the foreskin. These are soft, elevated and tender to touch. These are generally grouped together and are dark in color. The lesions typically develop around the urethra, scrotum, rectal and penis region.

Warts of Condyloma in women appear around the vaginal aperture and Labia Minora. The lesions can arise on the external parts of the body or may appear within the vaginal canal, cervix or anorectal area. Women can also suffer from vaginal bleeding during copulation. There may also be some rare symptoms like increased vaginal discharge, itching around the private organ or dampness in the area having lesions.

When Condyloma warts occur inside the body, there are rarely any external symptoms. However, people with Condyloma warts arising internally in a body area may experience symptoms like heightened sensitivity in the region, itching and also burning feeling.

Condyloma Causes

Condyloma can be caused by a number of factors like :

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) Infection

A number of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infections can act as Condyloma causes. Over 70 forms of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) are known to exist. Several kinds of these can cause Condyloma. These can affect various parts of the body such as vagina, urethra, vulva, penis, larynx and the anus.

Multiple Sexual Partners

Some people can be at greater risk from this disease than others. People who have more than one sexual partner are at greater risk of developing this condition as it is difficult to say which partner suffers a Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI). Men and women who turn sexually active from an early age can also contract this disorder.

Other Conditions

People suffering from too much stress, viral infections or compromised immunity are also highly susceptible to this disease. Those using too much alcohol or tobacco are also at high risk from Condyloma.

Condyloma Testing

Condyloma diagnosis usually begins with a physical examination of the genitals. This is usually enough to reveal genital warts in men. Penile warts are usually white or flesh-colored. These may be flat or elevated in appearance and can appear as a single lesion or as multiple lesions.

A Pelvic Examination in women reveals Condyloma rashes on the cervix or the vaginal walls. Colposcopy is needed to see very small lesions in magnified view. In some cases, dilute vinegar (acetic acid) may be applied over cervical or vaginal tissues to make warts visible.

A Pap Smear Test is effective in showing changes resulting from HPV infection. Women with HPV infection need frequent Pap Smear exams over a period of time to reveal these alterations.

In some cases, HPV infection can give rise to Cervical Cancer in sufferers. A Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) DNA Test can help in the identification of such a complicated case. This test is usually carried out in women above 30 years of age and exhibiting slight abnormalities in Pap Test result.

Condyloma Differential Diagnosis

The differential diagnosis for Condyloma involves distinguishing the disease from conditions like Psoriasis that produces similar symptoms.

Condyloma Treatment

Treatment for Condyloma usually begins with physical observation of the genital warts. It is advisable that you refrain from using any over-the-counter medications for cure unless your doctor suggests one to you. The doctor may himself use a topical medicine like Podophyllin, Imiquimod (Aldara), Podofilox (Condylox) and Trichloroacetic acid (TCA).

In complicated cases involving pregnancy, doctors may skip using topical medicines. Topical application of drugs may be unsafe for the health of pregnant women as well as their unborn infants. In such cases, surgical techniques may be used. This involves methods like

Cryotherapy

This process involves using extremely low temperatures, usually liquid nitrogen, to destroy genital warts.

Laser Therapy

The warts are subjected to laser rays and removed effortlessly. This is a painless way of Condyloma removal.

Electrocauterization

A chemical agent or device is used to curdle or destroy the tissues beneath the warts thus ensuring their removal.

Surgical Removal

This involves direct Condyloma ablation with the aid of Condyloma surgery. The surgical Condyloma excision involves use of local anesthesia.

Condyloma Pictures

Want to know how Condyloma warts look like? Here are some useful Condyloma photos. Check out these Condyloma images and get an idea about the main external symptoms of this disease.

Picture 1 – Condyloma
Source – uptodate

Condyloma Incubation Period

The incubation period for Condyloma is typically within one to eight months. However, longer periods of incubation have also been reported as the condition may remain dormant for years.

Condyloma Prognosis

Condyloma Progonosis is slightly unpredictable. In some cases, HPV infection goes away naturally. In a few cases, individuals treated for Condyloma may still pass on HPV virus to their present or future sexual partners.

Condyloma Risk Factors

In rare cases, there are some types of Condyloma warts that can give rise to Vulva Cancer or Cervical Cancer in women.

If you note warts around your partner’s or your own genital region, get in touch with a doctor immediately. Timely medical assistance will help in quicker diagnosis and a faster treatment of this discomforting health condition and help you enjoy life to the fullest.

References:

http://www.wrongdiagnosis.com/c/condyloma/intro.htm

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-condyloma.htm

http://www.buzzle.com/articles/genital-warts-symptoms.html

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Condyloma

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001889/

http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/781735-overview

https://health.google.com/health/ref/Genital+warts

The post Condyloma – Symptoms, Causes, Pictures, Treatment and Cure appeared first on Prime Health Channel.

Pubic Lice Definition

Picture 1 – Difference between Body Lice and Pubic Lice
Source – missouri

Pubic Lice is a disease that affects hair, especially of the pubic region – the area of the body that is just above the genitals. The term “Pubic Lice” actually refers to lice, the bloodsucking parasites that infest the pubic region. The Pubic Lice can also be found in other hairy areas of the body such as eyebrows and armpit.

Pubic Lice Description

Pubic Lice are small creatures with six legs that infect and lay eggs on the pubic area of the body. The six-legged Pubic Lice are also known as ‘Pubic Lice crabs’ or simply ‘crabs’ because of their appearance.

Symptoms of Pubic Lice

The main Pubic Lice symptoms are :

Itchiness

Sufferers of this disease typically experience an itchy sensation in their pubic region. The itchiness usually gets worse at night and affects sleep. It is one of the main Pubic Lice effects.

Skin Color Change

The color of the skin in the pubic region may also change and become bluish-gray in appearance.

Sores

Affected people may also suffer from sores in the pubic area due to the lice infection.

Pubic Hair Eggs

The affected area is also infested with tiny eggs laid by the lice. Pubic Lice eggs or nits are grayish-white in color and stick to the hair shaft in the pubic region.

Pubic Lice Causes

Pubic Lice is actually caused due to an infection by a group of lice named ‘Phthirus pubis’. Phthirus pubis lice are commonly known as Pubic Lice. It is one of the three main types of lice affecting humans, the other two being Head Lice or ‘Pediculus humanus capitis’ and Body Lice or ‘Pediculus humanus corporis’.

Picture 2 – Pubic Lice Image
Source – okstate

The disease is caused when the Phthirus pubis lice is transmitted from one person to another. Pubic Lice transmission occurs during sexual activity with an infected person or by sharing clothes or bed with that individual.

People who are sexually very active and have multiple sexual partners are particularly vulnerable to this disorder.

Pubic Lice Diagnosis

This condition can be diagnosed by physical observation as well as microscopic examination. A naked eye observation is enough to reveal the presence of oval, grayish-white lice eggs attached to hair over the pubic region. Redness and scratch marks on the area can be signs of a contagious Impetigo infection.

In some cases, samples of pubic hair are observed under microscope. This is usually done to detect adult lice.

Pubic Lice disease in the eyes can result in a type of eye infection known as Blepharitis. This is particularly true in case of young children. Pubic Lice on eye is usually detected by examining the eyelashes with the aid of a high-powered magnifying glass.

Treatment for Pubic Lice

Pubic Lice untreated can lead to quite serious and discomforting symptoms. The common ways adapted for Pubic Lice treatment include :

Prescription Wash

Pubic Lice can be treated by washing the pubic region with a prescription wash like Kwell or Elimite. These work well as Pubic Lice remedies.

Shampoo Wash

In Pubic Lice Treatment Shampoo washes work really great. Thoroughly rub the region with a good Pubic Lice shampoo, leave it to work for five minutes and then wash it away. Pyrethrin or Permethrin Lice shampoos are great for curing the condition.

Over The Counter Drugs

In Pubic Lice Treatment over the counter medicines like Nix. Malathione lotion and Rid can be used. These Pubic Lice lotions are found to be quite effective in treating itchiness resulting from the infection.

Ointments

Pubic Lice eyelashes can be treated using Petroleum Jelly, Phenothrin, Carbaryl or Malathoin. These work great as pubic lice remedy.

Pubic Lice Natural Treatment

Here are some natural methods that you can use for Pubic Lice cure. These help in Pubic Lice removal.

Comb the Pubic Hair

Comb the hair in the pubic area with a comb having fine tooth. Even gentle combing will help remove the eggs. Do this when your hair is dry. Apply a little vinegar to the pubic hair before combing. It is one of the best Pubic Lice home treatments.

Wash Clothes Thoroughly

Wash all your clothes and undergarments in hot water. Apply medicated spray over all items that you use and which cannot be washed. This will kill pubic lice present in these objects and prevent further transmission of the disorder.

Can Pubic Lice Be Cured?

With effective treatment, Pubic Lice can easily be cured. The condition usually takes just a few days to go away.

Pubic Lice Prevention

Pubic Lice can be prevented by following good hygiene. Avoid using towels, clothes and undergarments of other people. Pubic Lice on women often arises due to trying swimsuits in shops. You should keep your underwear on while doing this. This will prevent transmission of the disorder.

If you are sexually active and have one or more partners, practice safe sex to avoid getting lice. If your sexual partner is infected, avoid sexual contact until he or she recovers.

Pubic Lice Health Risks

What happens if pubic lice goes untreated? This is a common worry for sufferers of this disorder. Pubic Lice left untreated can cause complications that can range from mild to severe. As this disease causes itchiness, affected people are forced to scratch their pubic area. Constant digging and scratching chafes the area, makes it raw and can give rise to secondary infections.

Itchiness can also be a sign of some sexually transmitted disease. It is important that you check yourself well by an experienced professional during diagnosis to rule out any STD.

Pubic Lice Pictures

Want to know how Pubic Lice look like? Here are some useful pubic lice images to help you out. Check out these Pubic Lice Photos and get an idea about the appearance of the condition.

Picture 3 – Pubic Lice Photo
Source – livingwithbugs

Picture 4 – Pubic Lice Image
Source – bookdrum

Pubic Lice disease is a highly discomforting condition. If pubic lice home remedies and over-the-counter medications fail to bring about any improvement, you should visit a doctor. Early treatment by a medical expert will help you make a faster recovery and avoid further irritations.

References:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001844/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pubic_lice

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000841.htm

http://www.wisegeek.com/how-do-i-get-rid-of-pubic-lice.htm

The post Pubic Lice – Pictures, Symptoms, Causes and Treatment appeared first on Prime Health Channel.

Dyspareunia is the painful sexual intercourse due to medical or psychological causes.

The word dyspareunia is pronunciated as dis′pa-rū′nē-ă.

Male Dyspareunia

Dyspareunia in men is not commonly seen, if occurs it is due to underlying medical causes.

Causes of Dyspareunia in Men

Dyspareunia in men can result from allergic rashes over the penis, physical abnormities like tight foreskin or a bowed erection and infection of testes or prostate gland.

Interstitial cystitis and gonorrheal infections in men causes intense pain during ejaculation.

Urethritis makes erection of penis painful. Post ejaculation dyspareunia is a rare case of male dyspareunia in which there is persistent pain in the genitals during or after ejaculation.

Female Dyspareunia

Female dyspareunia is a common condition that can be due to various causes. Pain may be superficial or deep; in the external genitalia or in the pelvic area. The pain is often described as burning or cramping pain as in menstrual cycle. In most of the women, development of dyspareunia results in fear or loss of interest in sexual activities.

Causes of Dyspareunia in Women

Dyspareunia causes vary depending on the type of pain whether it is superficial or deep.

Superficial Dyspareunia or Introital Dyspareunia Causes

• Lack of vaginal fluid: If woman is not sexually aroused, there may not be adequate vaginal fluid for lubrication. The reason for lack of vaginal fluid may be insufficient foreplay. This results in painful intercourse.

Other causes of decrease in vaginal fluid are :

Atropic Vaginitis– As age advances, the vaginal lining becomes thin and dry because of decreasing level of estrogen hormone. Dyspareunia menopause is also associated with low hormonal level and vaginal dryness.

Breast feeding– Breast feeding can be another reason for low estrogen level and subsequent dryness of vagina.
Long term administration of antihistamines causes temporary dryness of vagina and painful sex.

• Increased sensitivity near the vaginal area causes entry dyspareunia while inserting the penis inside.
• Infection or Inflammation of urinary tract, external genitalia or Bertholins glands.
• Allergy to condoms and artificial lubricators.
• Injuries near external genitalia.
• Abnormal structure of vagina which may be congenital.
• Surgery in the vagina (stitches to repair episiotomy or to correct pelvic disorders).
• Thick hymen- Hymen is a thin membrane that encircles the vaginal opening. Hymen tears during the first intercourse if it was not previously stretched (use of tampons, sexual play using fingers) causing mild pain and bleeding. Congenitally tight hymen causes pain during sex.
• Vaginismus or insertional dyspareunia- It is the painful muscle spasm around vagina. It is often difficult to differentiate between dispareunia and vaginismus. Any type of dyspareunia may trigger onset of vaginismus.
• Post partum dyspareunia- It is mainly due to the perineal tear during child birth.

Deep Dyspareunia Causes

Deep pain at the time or after sexual intercourse can be due to;

• Dyspareunia Endometriosis– Endometriosis is a gynecological condition in which tissues similar to uterine lining (endometrial- like cells) is found in the pelvic wall, ovaries or the fallopian tubes. Endometriosis makes sexual intercourse painful. Endometriosis also grows over the uterus lining and the condition is known as Adenomyosis.
• Abnormal Pelvic Growth– Tumors or cysts in the ovaries cause discomfort during sexual act. The cysts may rupture or bleed causing pelvic pain.
• Infection of Reproductive Organs– Pelvic and other reproductive organs infection is mainly due to Chlamydia or Gonorrhea organisms. Infection of lining of uterus is called endometritis. Salpingitis is the infection of fallopian tubes. Infection in any of the reproductive structure cause severe pain and fever.
• Adhesions– The band of scar tissue that joins two parts of tissues together are called adhesions. Some times adhesions seen between the organs within the pelvis causes pain during sex. Adhesions may be formed after surgery, infections or after radiotherapy for cancer.
• Retroverted Uterus– Retroverted uterus is a condition in which the uterus is tilted backwards. This condition can make sex painful.
• Fibroids– Fibroids are non cancerous tumors found inside the uterus. Large fibroids can be a cause of painful sex.
• Misplaced Ovaries– Sometimes, during a hysterectomy surgery, ovaries are conserved. As there is no proper support to hold the ovaries in place, it moves down in the pelvis.
• Tumors or cancerous growth in the genital tract.
• Prolapsed uterus.
• Deep Thrust Dyspareunia– Deep thrust dyspareunia is the common type of pain during intercourse dyspareunia caused due to the deep penetration of penis. This condition is common in passionate sexual relation and to an extent depends on the position adapted during sex.

Symptoms of Dyspareunia

Researches show that one in every five women experience dyspareunia. The location of the pain varies greatly in each individual. The common dyspareunia include;

• Pain while inserting a tampon or during penis penetration
• Pain with particular partners.
• Deep pain during thrusting

When to Consult a Professional

Sexual intercourse for the first time may be uncomfortable. However, intense pain during or after sex, must taken into a doctor’s consideration. Care must be taken at an early stage, if not; you may start avoiding sex due to fear of pain.

Diagnosis of Dyspareunia

Dyspareunia is diagnosed mainly based on the symptoms. A complete medical and sexual history and physical examination will help the doctor to come into a conclusion on the cause of dyspareunia.

The doctor may enquire about;

• The exact location, time and duration of pain.
• If the dyspareunia was there from the first intercourse or there were times of painless sex.
• A few questions about your sexual history to eliminate the risk of sexually transmitted diseases.
• If you are over 40 years, you will be asked whether you have reached menopause, if not, if the periods are regular or irregular.
• New moms will be asked about breast feeding as there will be hormonal changes and subsequent dryness of vagina.

Physical examination includes checking the vaginal wall for signs of dryness, infection, inflammation, warts, scars etc. Internal pelvic examination will be done to look for endometriosis and abnormal masses.

Treatment of Dyspareunia

The husband and wife are encouraged to involve in mutual pleasure without penetration. Mutual pleasure can be stimulation that involves mouth, hand or a vibrator that leads to orgasm or ejaculation. Exercises help in relaxation of pelvic muscles. Changing the sexual posture may help in reducing deep pain. Superficial pain can be treated with anesthetic gels or ointments applied before intercourse. Oil based lubricant tends to dry the vagina and damage the latex condoms. Increasing the duration of foreplay is a natural way of increasing vaginal lubrication.

Specific dyspareunia treatments include;

• Antifungal creams for yeast infections.
• Estrogen cream or pills inserted into vagina is helpful in reducing the dryness of vagina after menopause.
• Antibiotics in case of infections.
• Surgical removal or cysts, abscess or large fibroids.
• Surgical correction of a congenitally rigid hymen.
• Uterine prolapse is corrected either by surgery or insertion of pessary that resembles diaphragm.
• Analgesic and antispasmodic drugs for dyspareunia vaginismus.
• Combined medical and surgical treatment is necessary in women with endometriosis dyspareunia.

Dyspareunia Prevention

Sexual intercourse must be avoided for 6 weeks after childbirth. Safe sex must be practiced to avoid sexually transmitted diseases. Sufficient foreplay before sex ensures good lubrication of the vagina. Use cotton under pants, avoid tight garments, and practice good personal hygiene to avoid genital infections.

References :

http://www.hawaii.edu/hivandaids/Dyspareunia%20%20%20Eliciting%20the%20Source%20of%20the%20Pain.pdf

http://www.bmj.com/content/328/7452/1357.full.pdf

http://www.laboratoriosilesia.com/upfiles/sibi/GI081073.

The post Dyspareunia – Definition, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment appeared first on Prime Health Channel.