Internal Medicine in Lagos
Genital Sores and Ulcers
The signs, what causes it, and when to see a internal medicine specialist in Lagos.
Signs to look for
Genital Sores and Ulcers
- Painful blisters or shallow sores on the genitals or around the anus (often herpes)
- A single painless, firm sore (often syphilis)
- Tingling or burning before sores appear
- Swollen, tender glands in the groin
- Pain on passing urine when urine touches a sore
A sore, blister or ulcer on or around the genitals is most often caused by genital herpes or syphilis, and less often by chancroid, an injury or a skin condition. Herpes usually starts as painful blisters that break into shallow sores and can come back. Syphilis usually causes a single painless sore that heals on its own while the infection carries on. Because they look alike and are treated differently, a swab and a blood test are the way to know which it is.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- Painful blisters or shallow sores on the genitals or around the anus (often herpes)
- A single painless, firm sore (often syphilis)
- Tingling or burning before sores appear
- Swollen, tender glands in the groin
- Pain on passing urine when urine touches a sore
- Fever and aches with a first herpes outbreak
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor for any new sore on the genitals, ideally while it is still there, because a swab from the sore gives the clearest answer. A blood test for syphilis and HIV belongs with it. See a doctor the same day if you are pregnant, or if you cannot pass urine because of the pain.
Treatment options
- A PCR swab from the sore for herpes and syphilis
- Blood tests for syphilis and HIV
- Antiviral tablets for herpes, which shorten an outbreak
- A penicillin injection for syphilis
- Treatment of partners where the cause is passed on through sex
- Longer-term antiviral treatment if herpes keeps returning
Common Questions
Is genital herpes curable?
Herpes stays in the body, but antiviral tablets shorten outbreaks, make them less frequent and lower the chance of passing it on. Many people have few outbreaks after the first.
My sore healed. Do I still need a test?
Yes. A syphilis sore heals on its own while the infection continues. A blood test shows whether you have it.
Can I get a sore checked by video?
A doctor can assess it by video and arrange the swab and blood tests, but a sore usually needs to be seen and swabbed in person to be sure.
Need Help?
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