Can STD Kill You

As one of the most contagious diseases, the CDC estimates that one in every five Americans have STDs. There are over 25 different types of STDs, out of which some are curable and some incurable.  Trichomoniasis, Syphilis, Chlamydia, and Gonorrhea are some examples of curable STDs. On the other hand, STDs like HIV, hepatitis B, and human papillomavirus are incurable.  Experts suggest that over one-fourth of the U.S population suffers from incurable STDs. Consequently, you may question, ‘can STD kill you?' 

It is a given that if left untreated, there are STDs that can lead to deaths too. Though most STDs are treatable, they account for over 2.7 deaths per 100 thousand during 2010 in the U.S. The leading causes of these deaths are due to HIV and human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. As per records of 2010, the mortality rates of HIV and the HPV were 1.3 deaths per 100 thousand. However, with the advancement in the treatment methods and medicines, there is a gradual improvement in the statistics. Another reason that helps reduce the infection rate is being aware and knowing whether can std kill you.

The three leading causes of STD infections are bacteria, parasites, and viruses. Bacteria are responsible for diseases like Chlamydia and syphilis, while parasites are responsible for trichomoniasis infections.  Viruses are the most fatal among the three and are accountable for STDs like HIV, genital herpes, and HPV. These germs spread from person to person through sexual fluids like saliva, semen, vaginal secretions, and blood. Using protection while performing oral, vaginal, or anal sex can considerably reduce the chances of infection. If you take necessary precautions, you won’t need to question, ‘can STD kill you’ again.

Whether curable or incurable, STDs can cause significant damage to your body and result in life-threatening difficulties. Can STD kill you if you prolong the infection? That can happen when you fail to take regular STD tests and treatments even after risky sexual activities. Some complications that occur after prolonged infections are cancers, stillbirth, neurologic damage, infertility, spontaneous abortions, blindness, and even death.   With early diagnosis and proper medication, you can even treat the symptoms of incurable STDs.

Understanding that can STDs kill you, you should consult your doctor if you are doubtful. In HIV infections, there are treatments available that can significantly slow down the progression rate. As a result of the delay, it can take decades for an HIV infection to develop into AIDS. The danger of contracting most STDs is that they show no signs of infection until the condition worsens. Hence, to prevent such outcomes, you must go for regular STD checks once in a while. Therefore, if you don’t take proper care, it is a yes for ‘can STD kill you.’