When pointing out how and when gonorrhea symptoms present, it would be worthwhile to mention here that this particular infection acquired through STIs (Sexually Transmitted Infections) may or may not present with any symptoms. Acknowledging this fact has, therefore, incited an interest in exploring the nature of the gonorrhea infection, and why symptoms occur late.
The current article thus sets out to identify specific symptoms, if any occur, in both male and female partners. Additionally, it examines methods to test/detect gonorrhea as a way to relieve people afflicted with this condition. Finally, available treatment options will be discussed to prevent further occurrence of the infection.
Gonorrhea – Causes And Symptoms
Gonorrhea refers to an infection in the series of those acquired through sexually transmitted diseases or STIs. Caused by the bacteria, Neisseria gonorrhea or N. gonorrhea, this disease is spread through sexual fluids, such as those from the vagina and the semen.
It can be typically interpreted here that one can be inflicted with gonorrhea when one indulges in sexual activity of any type involved there, namely oral, vaginal, etc.
That gonorrhea presents with no symptoms, especially in women, adds to the concern regarding this infection. To prove this argument wrong, a report from NHS (National Health Services) in England has, however, come out with facts regarding how gonorrhea symptoms present in females. The following are a few that stand out:
- Unusual vaginal discharge that is thin/watery in texture and greenish-yellow in color.
- Pain or a burning sensation with passing urine.
- Pain and tenderness in the lower abdomen.
- Heavier periods, bleeding between periods, and bleeding after having sex, though not commonly noticed,
In males, gonorrhea can present in the following ways:
- Unusual discharge from the penis’ tip. The discharge can be white, yellow, or green.
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Foreskin inflammation and swelling
- Rare pain and tenderness in the testicles
The worst part of the gonorrhea infection is that partners infect or get infected unknowingly. This is because symptoms arrive late – as early as within two weeks of getting infected, At other times, these may not appear at all until several months have passed.
Also Check: Why STD Education For Young Adults Is Important? Ensure A Safer Future
How Can Gonorrhea Be Detected Or Confirmed?
The only way to confirm Gonorrhea infection would be to get it checked through lab tests that are applicable for diagnosis. Tests that would accurately help in detecting gonorrhea and that too promptly are the most preferred in this regard.
Apart from helping prevent life-threatening complications, these tests can also ensure that babies born from gonorrhea-infected parents are free from such infections.
Methods for detecting gonorrhea are mostly gender-centered. For males, this is done by testing their urine, which if positive, will most probably present as urogenital gonorrhea. Their urethra also needs to be checked to detect this infection.
For women, it is usually the endocervical or vaginal specimens that help detect/diagnose gonorrhea. The process is carried out by Nucleic Acid Amplification Testing, shortened as NAAT. Of note, a gonorrhea culture also helps diagnose this infection in both men and women. This involves taking a swab specimen of their urethra and endocervix respectively.
What Are The Applicable Treatments For Gonorrhea?
As per the CDC, the treatment and cure for gonorrhea depend on how appropriate these are in treating this STI-borne infection. A single dose of ceftriaxone 500 mg administered intramuscularly should be effective enough for this purpose.
However, in cases that may prove this drug to be ineffective in treating urogenital or rectal gonorrhea, an additional or alternative treatment regimen needs to be applied.
Amid these treatment options, one should be aware of the fact that any permanent damage caused to any sexual organ because of gonorrhea infection cannot be wholly repaired by any sort of treatment. In such situations, medications administered for the irritation and infection caused can only be stopped or prevented.
Secondly, with increased concerns regarding the fact that treatment for a complete cure from gonorrhea is highly difficult, these tend to convey the seriousness associated with this infection. As of note, resistance to antimicrobial drugs is the one major concern in the treatment of gonorrhea.
Read More: Does Creatine Affect Sexual Health? Uncovering The Myths
Conclusion
The delayed onset of symptoms, ineffectiveness of some of the treatment regimes for gonorrhea, and antimicrobial resistance have all pointed towards the fact that prevention is the only best method to stop this infection from invading and affecting the sex organs in both males and females. This mandates staying away from unprotected sex as best as one can.
