Signs of HPV in Men
The HPV, commonly known as human papillomavirus, is a more frequently occurring condition that we think. There are currently over 40 known varieties of this virus and it is considered to occur in two forms, as a sexually transmitted disease and as a common virus spread through simple skin to skin contact. The HPV virus can cause warts which are a fairly common occurrence and, although they are not dangerous or painful in any way, can cause embarrassment and discomfort, while also being difficult to get rid of. The most embarrassing type of wart is warts which are easy to transmit and, again, difficult to get rid of. Warts generally indicate that you may have a weak immune system and can even be a sign of a precancerous problem, there are some very strong HPV strains which can lead to cancer.
Tell Tale Signs – The HPV infection is actually a difficult one to prescribe as it often doesn't show any symptoms at all. Many people will spend there time going about their day to say lives without even knowing they are infected. The current predication is that around 50% of men will suffer with this condition at some point during their lives. This results in an average of 1% of all sexually active men at one time carrying the HPV virus. Although it often shows no symptoms and will go away on its own, there are times when warts will occur in frequent outbreaks. These appear as raised, misshapen lumps on the skin and can vary in their appearance and size. In men, the warts can appear on both the penis and the anus, it is a good idea to get regular screening checks to catch any early warning signs.
Who is at Risk? - Any sexually active individual is at risk of contracting HPV and more promiscuous and unprotected activity will increase your chances of being exposed to the condition. There is a higher risk of gay and bisexual men contracting the diseases and people with compromised immune system and carriers of the HIV virus are also at a greater risk.
Treatment – There is no direct treatment for the HPV virus, though the resulting warts can be treated with several different topical creams or even surgically. There are a few home remedies that people have used and over the counter treatments can be found for using on common warts. These should generally be avoided for warts and you should seek medical attention instead.
How to Avoid HPV – Abstinence is the only fool proof way of completely avoiding the HPV virus, though condoms are able to reduce the risk drastically. You should try to avoid promiscuity and make sure you and your partner both get regular screening to ensure that neither of you is carrying or contracted the disease.
Avoidance is a much better option that trying to treat the virus, always have protected safe sex in order to prevent your chances of infecting yourself and others.
 |