GONORRHEA: SYMPTOMS, CAUSES, AND EFFECTIVE TREATMENT OPTIONS

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are more widespread than many people realize, and Gonorrhea Disease, caused by the bacteria Neisseria, remains one of the most prevalent and concerning. Known for its stealthy symptoms and potential for serious complications, it can affect various parts of the body. .

In this blog, we’ll unpack everything you need to know about the disease, including why you might experience symptoms but receive a negative test, how to use STD home test kits, and the current treatment options available.

What is Gonorrhea?

It is a sexually transmitted infection that targets mucous membranes of the reproductive tract, urethra, rectum, throat, and even the eyes. The Disease bacteria name is Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and it’s a gram-negative diplococcus, meaning it appears as pairs of round cells under a microscope.

This disease spreads through vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Babies can also contract it during childbirth if the mother is infected.

Left untreated, this disease can lead to serious health issues, including infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and increased HIV susceptibility. Known for being sneaky, this condition can show mild symptoms—or none at all—especially in its early stages.

Causes:

The primary cause is sexual contact with someone who has the infection. The bacterium passes from person to person through fluids and direct contact with infected mucous membranes. It doesn’t take long—it is highly transmissible, even from a single encounter.

Risk Factors:

• Having multiple sexual partners
• Unprotected sex
• Prior history of STIs
• Inconsistent condom or dental dam use

Symptoms: Know What to Watch For

Common symptoms:

1. Burning sensation during urination
2. Unusual green or yellow discharge from the penis or vagina
3. Painful or swollen testicles
4. Unexpected vaginal bleeding between periods
5. Throat soreness, especially after oral sex

Did You Know?

Symptoms take between 2 and 14 days to show after exposure.

Always consult a Doctor (Family Medicine) if you experience any STI or STD symptoms

Anal Gonorrhea Symptoms:

1. Itching or soreness in the rectal area
2. Painful bowel movements
3. Discharge or bleeding from the anus
4. Feeling the need to have frequent bowel movements

Throat Soreness and Oral STIs

A lesser-known but rising sexually transmitted infection can affect the throat after unprotected oral sex. It’s caused by bacteria transmitted through contact with an infected partner’s mouth or genitals.

The main symptom is a persistent sore throat that doesn’t respond to typical cold or strep treatments. Though it may resemble tonsillitis or a mild cold, it’s bacterial and sexually transmitted. Many people show no symptoms, making it easy to pass on without knowing. If you’ve had unprotected oral sex and develop unexplained throat discomfort, consider getting tested.

Symptoms of Oral Gonorrhea:

• Redness and irritation in the throat
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• Pain or discomfort while swallowing
• Occasional white patches on the tonsils (mistaken for strep)

Diagnosis: How It’s Confirmed

1. Nucleic Acid Amplification Test (NAAT)
   This is the most common and reliable method. It detects the DNA of Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It works on samples like:
   • Urine (mainly for men)
   • Cervical or vaginal swabs (for women)
   • Throat or rectal swabs (for oral or anal infections)
2. Swab and Culture
   Swabs from the affected area are grown in a lab to identify the bacteria. While slower, this method is excellent for detecting antibiotic resistance.
3. Rapid Tests
   These are fast and give results within an hour. Especially useful in emergency settings or areas without easy lab access.

Do rapid tests work?

Yes, they’re helpful in urgent situations or areas with limited lab access.

Is it Possible to get a false negative?

Sometimes people feel symptoms like burning urination or discharge, but get a negative test result. Why? Here are a few possible reasons:

• Testing too soon after exposure (before the bacteria multiply enough)
• Inadequate sample collection
• The infection is in a site not tested (e.g., throat or rectum)

Always consult a healthcare provider if you experience any STI or STD symptoms, but negative test results. You may need additional site-specific testing.

At-Home STD Test Kits

These kits are discrete and effective:

• Urine collection for men and women
• Vaginal swab for women
• Clear instructions for packaging and mailing

What Happens If Left Untreated

Unchecked, this condition can lead to severe complications:

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women
• Infertility in both sexes
• Epididymitis in men (painful testicle inflammation)
• Proctitis in rectal infections
• Disseminated gonococcal infection (a rare but serious condition where the bacteria spread to the blood and joints)

Can it be cured completely?

Yes, cure is possible—especially if caught early. But you can get it again if you are exposed to it.

Here’s how it’s typically treated:

• Ceftriaxone: a powerful antibiotic given via injection.
• In some cases, Gentamicin and Azithromycin may be used as alternatives.

Important steps post-diagnosis:

• Start treatment immediately
• Inform sexual partners so they can be tested and treated
• Avoid sexual activity until both you and your partner(s) complete treatment and symptoms clear
• Get re-tested in 3 months, as reinfection is common

Prevention: What You Can Do

• Use condoms and dental dams consistently
• Limit your number of sexual partners
• Get routine STI screenings, especially if you’re sexually active with new or multiple partners
• Avoid sex with anyone showing symptoms of an STI

Conclusion

Gonorrhea Disease is more common than most people realize, and understanding its symptoms, diagnosis methods, and cures can help you stay safe and informed. Early detection is key, especially if you’re experiencing signs like burning urination, anal symptoms, or unusual discharge. Whether it’s from throat swabs or STD home test kits, regular screening and open communication with your partners can keep you protected from this easily curable, but potentially dangerous, STI.

Reference: DOH