Sexually transmitted infections can result in alarming symptoms that many do not know to look out for, according to an expert.
As individual bodies often take a different approach when fighting an infection, the "classic" STI symptoms may not be the only ones an infected person experiences.
From a burning sensation to sores, most are aware of the typical signs of infections including chlamydia and gonorrhoea but Director and Founder of Clarewell Clinics, Dr Manoj Malu, has issued a warning over symptoms that may not be "usual".
Speaking to the Daily Star, the medical professional said: "When someone thinks of STIs, they generally think of the genital symptoms. It is important to be aware that most STIs are quite capable of producing symptoms away from the genital area."
He further explained that symptoms may begin to appear around a variety of areas around the body if the infection is left untreated.
Here are some lesser known signs that should be looked out for...
Anal lumps
The medic said that many patients suffering from lumps around the anus have understandably believed they have piles. Anal warts can sometimes be confused with piles, and be treated incorrectly.
Redness and stickiness of the eyes
Dr Manoj explained: "It is easy to dismiss sticky red eyes as hay fever.
"However, it is important to remember that chlamydia and gonorrhoea also can cause similar symptoms, especially if you have had intimate contact with someone with these infections.
"I leave it to your imagination as to how these genital infections can get into our eyes. Syphilis can also produce redness of the eyes along with some floaters and disturbance of vision.
"One may have developed some symptoms which are easy to dismiss- like subtle skin rash, feeling a bit feverish and tired.
"A syphilis infection affecting the eyes is a serious matter not to be taken lightly."
Hair loss
Losing hair is also a sign, according to Dr Manoj. He added: "Syphilis in its second stage, which can occur any time from a couple of months up to 2 years after first getting it can produce hair loss.
"This can be distressing when it appears on the scalp, but can also be noted from eyes brows, eyelashes, armpits as well as from arms, legs and the trunk."
Joint pains
Dr Manoj said joint problems can also be a sign. He said: "Some patients present with painful swelling of large joints (elbow, wrist, knee and ankles) due to underlying chlamydia infections. This happens because the lining of our joints have some antigens very similar to ones found in these bacteria.
"A more serious one is septic infection joints with gonorrhoea where the joint becomes acutely red, hot and swollen. It must be treated as an emergency in hospital settings.
"Destruction of knee joints due to late syphilis was a common sight before the advent of penicillin but fortunately rare now."
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