Gonorrhea transmits through sexual activity and is one of the common sexually transmitted infections around the globe. In women, the infection targets cervix and urethra, and in some cases, both. In men, the disease targets the urethra. In addition to these, the bacteria also cause infection in rectum, throat, anus, and pelvic organs.
Identifying it early is helpful in providing treatment to the same and prevent the occurrence of severe health problems, which occurs when left untreated. In women, not treating the infection leads to the development of scar tissue and inflammation. The condition is known as pelvic inflammatory disease. The disease causes infertility.
What Causes Gonorrhea?
A particular type of bacteria causes gonorrhea. It is a sexually transmitted disease. It means that it passes from one person to another during sexual activity. In women, it passes from her to a newborn during delivery. Therefore, identifying it is necessary to prevent it from spreading to others.
What Are The Signs Of Gonorrhea In Men?
Symptoms in men are so evident that they will cause their partner to seek medical assistance before developing complications. However, not all men show the signs, which makes it difficult to find it in its early stage. Due to this, men pass the infection to their partners unknowingly. The symptoms include:
- A sore throat
- Pain after urination
- Abnormal discharge from the penis
- Anal itching, bleeding, discomfort, and discharge
- Conjunctivitis
How Long Does It Take To Notice Gonorrhea?
The symptoms appearing due to gonorrhea are easy to notice in men. However, a few do have mild or show no signs at all. The time taken by the bacteria to develop infections begin at least two days after exposure to the bacteria. However, in some instances, the appearance of the symptoms may take at least 30 days after exposure to the virus. It is still probable to spread the virus to your partner even if you show no signs of the symptoms.
Diagnosing Gonorrhea
As it is difficult to find the presence of the infection solely based on the symptoms, taking STI test is preferable. Additionally, the doctor will ask questions related to your sexual life and history to understand the condition and order a test.
A urine test and blood test is necessary to identify the presence of the disease. It takes at least a week to receive the results. In rare cases, the doctor starts the treatment program before the results are out. Taking the test is the preferable method to ensure that there is no spread of the virus within the body and to others. It also provides the chance for the doctor to prepare the treatment that helps in killing the bacteria without compromising on the overall health.
Treatment of Gonorrhea
As bacteria causes gonorrhea, antibiotics are useful in treating the disease. The doctor prescribes antibiotics according to the prevailing condition or based on the reports. It is crucial for the patient to follow the medication to ensure that the bacteria do not spread. Also, you have to restrain from participating in sexual activities during the entire period.
If the results are positive, it is necessary to bring the sex partner or partners to test for gonorrhea and receive the treatment. Such a step helps in preventing re-infecting from the person. Receiving the treatment in early stages is necessary to prevent the growth of other ailments such as pelvic inflammatory disease. People suffering from gonorrhea are prone to show signs of other STIs such as chlamydia. Even after curing, the chances of acquiring it are high. Therefore, practicing safe sex is essential.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Gonorrhea: https://www.cdc.gov/std/gonorrhea/default.htm
- Planned Parenthood – Gonorrhea: https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/stds-hiv-safer-sex/gonorrhea
- Mayo Clinic – Gonorrhea: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gonorrhea/symptoms-causes/syc-20351774
- American Sexual Health Association (ASHA) – Gonorrhea: https://www.ashasexualhealth.org/stdsstis/gonorrhea/
Also Read:
- How Long Does Gonorrhea Last & What are Its Long Term Effects?
- What Kind Of Disease is Gonorrhea?
- Can Gonorrhea Go Away On Its Own?
- Can You Die If You Have Gonorrhea?
- How Does Gonorrhea Look Like?
- How Do You Know You Have Gonorrhea?
- What are the Signs and Symptoms of Gonorrhea in a Male and in a Female?
