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Johns Hopkins Symptoms and Remedies

Johns Hopkins Medicine

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Gonorrhea

What is it?

Gonorrhea is a contagious bacterial infection, most commonly acquired through sexual contact with an infected partner. In men, the disease often infects the urethra (the conduit in the penis that carries urine and sperm) and may spread to other structures in the genitals or urinary tract. In women, gonorrhea usually infects the cervix but may eventually spread to other parts of the reproductive system (uterus and fallopian tubes), a condition known as pelvic inflammatory disease, which can lead to infertility. Less commonly, infections may occur in the throat, rectum, or eyes. Symptoms usually develop within two to 10 days after exposure, although many people, particularly women, experience no symptoms at all.

This disease generally strikes people between the ages of 18 and 30, particularly those who have had multiple sexual partners. Left untreated, the infection may spread via the bloodstream to the joints and tendons as well as to valves in the heart. Gonorrhea also increases the risk of HIV infection. With proper treatment, however, prognosis is excellent, although reinfection is common.

What Causes It?

  • Gonorrhea is most often contracted via sexual contact, including anal, oral, and vaginal intercourse.
  • An infected pregnant mother may transmit the disease to her baby during childbirth. This may cause blindness in the infant.
  • Touching the eyes with contaminated hands can result in a gonococcal eye infection.

Prevention

  • Abstinence or maintaining a monogamous sexual relationship are the only sure ways to prevent sexually transmitted gonorrhea.
  • Men are advised to use a latex condom during sex.

Diagnosis

  • Diagnosis is confirmed by taking a culture or other diagnostic test of the discharge or infected tissue.

How to Treat It

  • A doctor will prescribe an antibiotic such as cefixime, ciprofloxacin, or ofloxacin. In addition, all people with gonorrhea should be treated for chlamydia, usually with azithromycin or doxycycline. Take antibiotics for the full term prescribed.
  • Abstain from sexual activity until you are assured by your doctor that the infection is completely cured.
  • Nonprescription pain relievers may be used to ease discomfort.
  • Gonorrhea in the eye is treated with intravenous antibiotics as well as irrigation of the eye with an antibiotic solution.
  • Sex partners should be referred for treatment.

When to Call a Doctor

  • See a doctor if you develop any of the symptoms of gonorrhea.
  • If you discover that a sexual partner has gonorrhea, consult a doctor.