We all know the dangers of contracting an unwanted STD, one of which is the possibility of the reproductive tracts being infected and damaged in the process. In some cases, the STD may even affect systems and organs that have little relation with sexual health.
But what if we told you that some STDs can affect your eyes, causing vision or ocular-related symptoms? In this article, we will dive into the connection between the two.
An overview of the two’s relationship
Considering how STDs are transmitted from one person to another, it is pretty clear that STDs can affect the eyes.
STDs are highly transmittable through a mucosal surface, with the eyes being an example of it. No matter where they are located, mucous surfaces have similar porous structures, allowing pathogens and microorganisms to enter the body.
Which STDs result in ocular issues
Most common STDs can result in visual issues.
Gonorrhoea and chlamydia cause conjunctivitis, and it is pretty easy for them to infect the eyes. It happens when a) infected bodily fluid comes into direct contact with the eyes, or b) the individual rubs their eyes with unclean hands.
When chlamydia causes ocular issues, the disease is termed trachoma. In fact, Chlamydia trachomatis, the bacterium that causes chlamydia, is one of the primary causes of blindness. Even if the STD does not cause total blindness, it can still result in permanent ocular damage and impairment. Hence, immediate treatment is imperative.
Ocular syphilis is another STD that results in vision-related symptoms. It can happen throughout an active syphilis infection and affects any part of the eye’s structure, causing blurry vision, redness, and, in more severe cases, blindness.
While it can affect any sexually active individuals, it is found predominantly among homosexual men, especially those who are also HIV-positive. Fortunately, ocular syphilis can be treated with a course of intravenous antibiotics.
Hepatitis B is another STD that can cause ocular symptoms and is characterised by the yellowing of the eyes, also known as jaundice. Chronic hepatitis B results in retinal blood vessel inflammation affecting the optic nerves.
Lastly, herpes simplex virus (HSV) is another example of an STD that results in ocular symptoms. On top of that, it causes face lesions to develop. And because herpes, whether genital or oral, is a viral condition, there is no cure for either the root viral cause or the ocular issues that may develop. In the long run, ocular herpes symptoms lead to a significant reduction in the individual’s quality of life.
How to protect yourself from STD-related ocular symptoms
First and foremost, sexual responsibility is fundamental to reducing the risk of contracting an STD. Observing safe sex and using barrier contraception, such as condoms, is the way to go, even if you are in a committed monogamous relationship and not trying for a baby at the time being.
Secondly, as long as you are sexually active, it is vital to conduct periodic STD tests that cover the most common STDs. You can get it done in most STD clinics in Singapore, such as Elyon Clinic, which offers a comprehensive range of STD testing packages that cover varying degrees of coverage depending on the package itself.
Lastly, practising good hygiene when having sex can help reduce the risk of developing ocular symptoms. For example, washing up after having sex and making it a habit not to rub your eyes or touch your face post-coitus can help to reduce the possibility of eye infections.
Conclusion
Safe sex is a guaranteed way to reduce the risk of developing STDs and any related ocular symptoms significantly. If you are sexually active, whether in a committed monogamous relationship or having casual sex and want to protect yourself and your partner by conducting STD testing, then look no further than Elyon Clinic. Contact us to make a confidential appointment today!
