Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can affect both men and women, but the symptoms may differ. In men, STIs often go unnoticed as many of their symptoms can be subtle or can be misdiagnosed for other health problems. While most of us are familiar with symptoms like genital discomfort or unusual discharge, it’s essential to know that STIs can occur in unexpected ways. We got in touch with Dr Amit Goel, Director and Head of Unit - Renal Transplant, Uro-oncology, Urology and Robotic Surgery, Max Super Speciality Hospital Gurugram who shares signs and symptoms of STIs in men.

Dr Amit explains that a persistent sore throat could indicate a pharyngeal infection caused by oral contact with an infected partner. "Gonorrhea, for example, can cause gonococcal pharyngitis, leading to a sore throat that often goes undiagnosed," he said. A study published in 2019 in The Lancet Infectious Diseases found that oropharyngeal gonorrhoea is becoming increasingly common among sexually active men. If left untreated, it can lead to complications like systemic infections.

STIs such as chlamydia and gonorrhoea can cause eye infections, widely known as conjunctivitis or "pink eye," if the bacteria come into contact with the eye, Dr Amit shares. He warns that gonococcal conjunctivitis can lead to severe eye pain, swelling, and discharge, potentially resulting in vision loss if left untreated.

Rashes are another sign of STI especially syphilis. The second stage of syphilis occurs as a non-itchy rash on the palms of the hands. Dr Amit shares that untreated syphilis can lead to neurological and cardiovascular problems.

Pain or a burning sensation while urinating is one of the more classic signs of an STI, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, Dr Amit shares. The infection irritates the urethra, leading to discomfort. A study published in 2020 in the Journal of Urology shows it is essential to get tested at the first sign of painful urination, as if left untreated, the infection can spread to the reproductive organs, causing further complications like epididymitis or prostatitis in men.

Discharge from the penis, whether clear, white, or yellowish-green, can be a sign of an STI, particularly chlamydia or gonorrhoea, Dr Amit explains. The CDC reports that nearly 50 per cent of men with chlamydia might not experience any symptoms, making this a critical sign to look out for. Gonorrhea, on the other hand, produces more discharge.

STIs can also cause pain or swelling in the testicles, which could signal epididymitis, a condition where the epididymis (the tube that stores sperm) becomes inflamed due to infections like chlamydia or gonorrhoea. If untreated, this can lead to infertility, according to research by the American Urological Association.

Dr Amit shares that men who engage in anal sex may experience rectal symptoms from STIs such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or syphilis. This may manifest as pain, discharge, or even bleeding. Rectal infections often go unnoticed because they can be asymptomatic, but if untreated, they can lead to severe inflammation and other health issues.

“As a urologist, I stress the importance of paying attention to these lesser-known symptoms. Other uncommon signs may include joint pain, swollen lymph nodes, changes in urination patterns, or flu-like symptoms. STIs are often manageable with early diagnosis, but if left untreated, they can lead to serious complications such as infertility, chronic pain, and systemic infections," he said.

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