Understanding Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
Sexually transmitted diseases, commonly referred to as STDs, are infections primarily transmitted through sexual activity, usually affecting the genital area. Traditionally, the term “STDs” encompassed conditions such as syphilis, gonorrhea, soft chancre, lymphogranuloma venereum, and granuloma inguinale, historically known as "aids to disease." Today, there are over 20 recognized STDs globally, including the classic five as well as non-gonococcal urethritis, genital warts, herpes simplex virus infections, HIV/AIDS, bacterial vaginosis, vulvovaginal candidiasis, trichomoniasis, scabies, pubic lice, and hepatitis B.
Main STDs to Know
The eight primary STDs currently monitored include:
- Syphilis
- Gonorrhea
- Soft Chancre
- Lymphogranuloma Venereum
- Chlamydia Infection
- Genital Warts
- Herpes
- HIV/AIDS
Treatment Options for Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is a common STD caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), presenting unique challenges for treatment. Here are some effective treatment protocols:
Antiviral Treatments
1. Primary Genital Herpes
Acyclovir 200 mg taken orally five times daily for 7 to 10 days, or Valacyclovir 300 mg taken orally twice daily for the same duration, or Famciclovir 250 mg taken orally three times daily for 5 to 10 days.
2. Recurrent Genital Herpes
It is advisable to start treatment within 24 hours of the onset of prodromal symptoms or lesions, using Acyclovir 200 mg five times daily for 5 days, or Valacyclovir 300 mg twice daily for 5 days, or Famciclovir 125-250 mg three times daily for 5 days.
3. Frequent Recurrences
For patients experiencing more than six recurrences a year, suppressive therapy can be employed. This includes Acyclovir 400 mg taken twice daily, or Famciclovir 125-250 mg taken twice daily, typically for a duration of 4 months to a year.
4. Severe Infections
In cases where primary infection symptoms are severe or lesions are widespread, administer Acyclovir 5 mg/kg via intravenous infusion every 8 hours for 5-7 days, or until clinical symptoms improve.
Topical Treatment
Maintaining cleanliness and dryness in the affected area is crucial. Topical creams such as 3% Acyclovir cream, 1% Penciclovir cream, or lidocaine cream can be applied to ease discomfort.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Approaches
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) adopts a holistic approach towards treating genital herpes based on syndromic differentiation.
1. Damp-Heat Syndrome
Characterized by clustered vesicles, this condition can be treated with Long Dan Cao San formula, which includes ingredients such as 10g of Gentiana, 10g of Gardenia, and 10g of Scutellaria, focused on clearing heat and dampness.
2. Toxic-Heat Accumulation Syndrome
Presenting with large, red vesicles, this form requires clearing heat and detoxifying. The detox formula Xie Du Tang can include 30g of Honeysuckle and 30g of Trichosanthes and is aimed at purging toxins.
3. Kidney Qi Deficiency
Here, the primary goal is kidney replenishment alongside detoxification. The classic formula Six Flavor Rehmannia may be used, incorporating ingredients like 10g of Rehmannia and 15g of Yam to nourish Yin.
Conclusion
Understanding and addressing STDs, particularly genital herpes, is essential for maintaining sexual health. With numerous treatment options available, both modern medicine and traditional practices offer effective solutions. Consultation with healthcare providers is recommended for personalized health management.