Lymphogranuloma venereum (LGV) is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis. It is usually the fallout of unprotected anal, vaginal, or oral sex and affects sexually active individuals aged between 15 and 40 years. An infected person may detect swollen, painful lymph nodes in the groin, pelvis, or rectum areas. If these LGV symptoms show, seek immediate professional medical help. Untreated LGV can cause long-term damage to the lymphatic system and may increase a person’s chances of contracting HIV and other STDs.
What are the Symptoms of Lymphogranuloma Venereum?
Lymphogranuloma venereum symptoms can appear within 3-12 days after infection, while some cases do not show symptoms even after 30 days. LGV symptoms depend on the stage of infection:
First stage
- Small blisters filled with fluid and 1-6 mm in size may appear on the penis or in the vagina. These blisters do not cause pain and heal quickly.
Second stage
Infection period - About 2-6 weeks with the symptoms worsening:
- Swollen, tender lymph nodes in the groin area are especially seen in men.
- Swollen, painful lymph nodes in the pelvic region and near the rectum are most commonly seen in women.
- The skin over the lymph nodes may break down and open a passage that drains out the blood or pus onto the skin.
Other symptoms may include:
- Inflammation of the rectum
- Inflammation of the anus
- Rectal bleeding
- Itching in the groin
- Painful urination (dysuria)
- Pain while passing stool
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abdominal pain
- Pelvic pain
- Anal pain
- Back pain
- Full body ache
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Fever
Third stage
This stage indicates the treatment for LGV has not been effective. The symptoms are mostly scars from sores that have not healed properly. The other symptoms that may appear include:
- Abscesses
- Anal fistulas
- Deformed genitals
- Narrowing of the rectum
- Pelvic floor dysfunction
- Swelling of the genitals
Conclusion
Thus, LGV is a sexually transmitted disease that usually occurs from unprotected sexual intercourse. The symptoms are based on the duration of the infection and are divided into three stages. The symptoms include blisters filled with fluid followed by painful swollen lymph nodes in the groin, inflammation in the rectum, constipation, problems in bowel movement, etc. It is important to treat LGV symptoms as they can cause infertility if left untreated. Another important factor you must not overlook is obtaining health insurance, as it will protect you and your family from unforeseen medical emergencies, which could be problematic financially.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your general physician or another certified medical professional for any questions regarding a medical condition. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.