Gonorrhea is a disease that is mainly transmitted through sexual contact. It affects both men and women. It can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated body fluids. For example, the mother may be a carrier and infect the baby during childbirth. It is caused by the bacterium neisseria, which spreads and multiplies rapidly through contact with infected body parts. The microbe is usually found in the urethra, cervix, rectum, pharynx, and conjunctivae.
Symptoms may not manifest in time, which makes treatment more difficult. If they do occur, symptoms appear within 10 days of contracting the bug.
Symptoms in men include:
- Greenish yellow or white fluid secretions from the penis
- Redness or irritation at the opening of the urethra
- Pain in the testicles and itching
- Burning sensation and pain when urinating
- Co-occurring urine
- Pain and burning in the throat
Symptoms in women include:
- Vaginal discharge (white or greenish-yellow fluids, foul smell)
- Synchronicity
- Pain and swelling in the neck
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Pain in the abdomen
- Discomfort in the anal area
In newborns, the eyes are affected.
REASONS
Risk factors that favour the transmission of gonorrhoea:
- Personal history of other sexually transmitted diseases
- Not using a condom
- Substance abuse
- Frequent change of partners without the necessary precautions
WHAT WE DO
- Condom use is essential in all forms of contact
- Avoiding sexual intercourse when the virus is at its peak
- Avoiding contact with partners who have unusual symptoms such as genital rashes
- In case someone shows symptoms, both sexual partners should be examined
THERAPY
Administration of antibiotic drugs (in the form of a ceftriaxone injection in combination with taking azithromycin or doxycycline by mouth). Re-testing should be done after the initial administration of antibiotics. Infants should be given special eye drops immediately after birth. If discomfort persists, antibiotics are necessary.
Source : www.edae.gr
