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The symptoms of HPV have to do with the appearance of warts in specific areas of the body. Many people have this infection, but do not know it because it does not cause visible manifestations.
It is very important to be attentive to the symptoms of HPV (human papillomavirus), since it is a condition that should be consulted with the doctor. Some varieties of this pathogen do not cause major problems, but others can be fatal.
In any case, it must be taken into account that the majority of people who contract it do not present symptoms of HPV. Therefore, when any sign appears, it is necessary to go to the professional.
This is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) or by skin-to-skin contact. The incubation period of the virus is 3 or 4 months. However, the signs can take up to 2 years to manifest.
The human papilloma virus (HPV)
The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a contagious agent that causes an infection in both men and women. There are more than 100 types of this virus and at least 14 of them can cause cancer.
However, most HPV cases do not lead to oncological pathologies. Even so, types 16 and 18 are the cause of 70% of cancerous lesions in the genital organs. It can also cause cancer of the mouth, pharynx and anus.
Some forms of this condition cause growths on the skin and in the mucous membranes. That is considered the most common of the symptoms of HPV types 6 and 11. If such warts appear, it is important to consult with the health provider.
HPV symptoms in women
In both men and women there may be no symptoms of HPV. The usual thing is that in these cases the disease disappears by itself, without any consequence. Instead, if the condition persists, warts may appear.
Such warts are variable in size. Sometimes they are isolated, but at other times they are grouped together and form highly visible plaques.
They usually appear on the vulva, vaginal wall, uterus, or anus. They may also appear on the inner cheeks, tongue, or throat. They look like little ridges.
If the disease progresses, other symptoms of HPV are likely to appear:
- Anal discharge or bleeding.
- Pain or itching in the anus.
- Abnormal discharge, bleeding, or spotting.
- Heavier period than normal.
- Bleeding after having sex.
- Persistent sore throat or ear.
- Pain in the genital area that lasts more than 3 months.
HPV symptoms in men
HPV symptoms in men are similar to those of women. The disease is more often asymptomatic in males.
If warts appear, they will do it on the penis, scrotum or anus. These look like broccoli-shaped bumps.
As in the case of women, they may be isolated or may be grouped in plaques. Sometimes they disappear and reappear later. They can also grow or change size.
There are times when other symptoms of HPV appear that warn us of cancer:
- Changes in the color or thickness of the skin on the penis.
- Sores on the penis that do not heal and cause pain.
- Anal bleeding or discharge.
- Pain or itching in the anus.
How to know if you have HPV?
Unfortunately, there is no standardized screening test to detect human papillomavirus in men. The only option is to be vigilant for the symptoms of HPV.
In the case of women, in addition to the symptoms, There are two screening methods and diagnosis that can detect the presence of the virus:
- Human papilloma test: allows detecting the presence of high-risk types in the cervix. The gynecologist will tell each woman how often she should have this test.
- Pap test: It allows detecting abnormal cells in the cervix, a product of HPV. It is recommended that women between the ages of 21 and 24 have this exam every 2 or 3 years, according to the recommendations of the local health authority. Those between the ages of 25 and 65 should undergo it every 2 to 5 years, also according to the local recommendations of each country. Women over the age of 65 do not need this test.
Prevent with vaccinations and controls
The presence of HPV symptoms does not mean that it will turn into cancer. However, it is a sign that medical help should be sought to treat the condition and maintain continuous monitoring of its evolution.
The vaccine is an effective measure to prevent infection with the human papillomavirus. Similarly, the practice of safe sex is usually a good preventive measure, as well as regular visits to the gynecologist for routine exams.
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