It is a very common bacterial sexually transmitted disease that affects both men and women. Gonorrhea most commonly affects the urethra, rectum, or throat, but it can also affect the cervix in women. In babies, gonorrhea primarily affects the eyes. In some cases, infected people show no symptoms. Being in a monogamous relationship, using a condom during sex, and abstaining from sex are ways to prevent STDs
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of gonorrhea usually appear 2-5 days after infection, but can take up to a month to appear in men. Others show no symptoms at all. This is especially dangerous given that they do not seek treatment and continue to spread the disease to sexual partners. It also puts them at risk for serious complications.
Men may experience the following symptoms:
- Burning and painful urination
- Increase in frequency of urination and urgency
- Pus-like discharge from the tip of the penis – this can be white, yellow or green
- tender or swollen testicles
- Sore throat (gonococcal pharyngitis)
In women, the following symptoms may occur:
- painful urination
- discharge from the vagina
- increased urination
- Sore throat
- painful sex
- severe pain in the lower abdomen – this symptom is due to an infection that has spread to the fallopian tubes and stomach area. It is usually accompanied by fever.
- vaginal bleeding between periods, e.g. B. after vaginal intercourse
- pain in the pelvic area
- conjunctivitis (red, itchy eyes)
TREATMENT
Gonorrhea can be treated and cured. The aim here is to treat the infected persons and their sexual partners. In adults, gonorrhea is treated with an antibiotic that can be given orally or by injection. It’s important to take all of your antibiotics, even if you’re feeling better. Never treat your gonorrhea with someone else’s medication. This only makes it difficult to treat yours. Due to emerging drug-resistant strains Neisseria gonorrheaa group of drugs known as cephalosporins are recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for treating uncomplicated cases of gonorrhea.
You can get infected again if your partner is not treated. It is important that your partner is tested and treated. Your partner will receive the same treatment as you. This helps prevent further spread of the disease.
Babies born to mothers with gonorrhea are given medicine in their eyes soon after birth to prevent infection. However, if an infection occurs, they will be given antibiotics to treat it.
CAUTION – Do not have sex during treatment.
PREVENTION
Abstinence is the only absolute method of preventing gonorrhea. You can also reduce your risk by being in a monogamous relationship and using condoms during sex. Also, ask your partner to get tested for the disease and consider getting regular gonorrhea screening if you’re at increased risk.
Thanks to Jeanne Abayie
