Gonorrhea Symptoms

Gonorrhea is a common Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) caused by the bacteria called "Neisseria gonorrhea". A person may suffer from this disease, when he/she comes in contact with an infected person, through sexual activities, including oral, vaginal and rectal sex. The bacteria usually grow in the moist areas of the body, such as vagina, penis, eyes, throat and rectum. The primary affected area found in women is the cervix. If this disease is left untreated, the infection may spread to the uterus and eventually, to the fallopian tubes.

The symptoms of gonorrhea depend upon the parts of the body, where the bacteria were introduced. This may also depend upon the duration of the infection. The common signs and symptoms of Gonorrhea vary in men and women. In men, the symptoms usually appear within 5 days after infection. Their female counterpart will not show signs of this disease in the beginning or will exude only mild symptoms. However, if left untreated, this disease may lead to serious health problems in both men and women. Given below is the information about the symptoms of gonorrhea.

Signs & Symptoms Of Gonorrhea

In Males

Pus like discharge from the tip of penis
Burning sensation and stinging during urination
Blood in the urine
Drastic increase in the frequency of urination
Thick white or yellow discharge from penis
Redness and tenderness in the head portion of penis
Swollen glands in groin area

In Females

Abnormal bleeding
Irritation in the outer portion of vagina
Thick yellow or bloody vaginal discharge
Infection in reproductive tract
Frequent and painful urination
Bleeding after sexual intercourse
Infection in the inner part of uterus
Difficulty in urination
Soreness and pus-filled growth in tonsils
Infection in fallopian tubes

Complications Associated With Gonorrhea

Gonococcal eye infection, which may result in blindness in children, in case the woman is pregnant at the time of being infected.
Blood poisoning (gonococcal septicemia), which is more common in females than in males
Infectious arthritis, which brings bacterial infection in the fluid and tissues of joints. It might be caused by virus and fungi too.
Pelvic inflammatory disease, usually strikes women with inflammation of the female uterus, fallopian tubes, and/or ovaries.
Epididymitisis in men, which is a painful condition of the testicles that can lead to infertility, if left untreated
Inflammation of the inner layer of heart called endocardium, with the disease named endocarditis
Higher risk of getting infected with HIV infection

Some General Tips

Wash hands with soap, especially after urination and bowel movements, to avoid the infection.
Avoid sexual activity until after full treatment, plus testing and treatment of partner (s).
Use separate utensils and linens for the patient, when the treatment is going on.
Get the patient checked for other harmful diseases, like HIV, syphilis and Chlamydia.

How to Cite

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