Written by Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can affect the genitals, rectum, throat, and eyes.
The most common symptoms of gonorrhea in men are:
- Painful or burning urination
- A white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis
- Pain or swelling in the testicles
The most common symptoms of gonorrhea in women are:
- Painful or burning urination
- Increased vaginal discharge
- Vaginal bleeding between periods
- Pain during sex
Gonorrhea can also cause symptoms in the rectum, throat, and eyes. Symptoms of rectal gonorrhea can include:
- Discharge from the rectum
- Anal itching or pain
- Bleeding from the rectum
Symptoms of throat gonorrhea can include:
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
Symptoms of eye gonorrhea can include:
- Redness, pain, and discharge from the eye
- Sensitivity to light
Gonorrhea can be diagnosed with a simple swab test of the affected area. The test can be done by a doctor, nurse practitioner, or other healthcare provider.
Gonorrhea is treated with antibiotics. The antibiotics are usually given as a single dose or a course of pills.
It is important to get treated for gonorrhea even if you do not have any symptoms. Gonorrhea can cause serious health problems if it is not treated, including:
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, which can cause infertility
- Infertility in men
- Disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI), which is a serious infection that can spread to the blood, joints, and other parts of the body
If you think you may have gonorrhea, it is important to see a doctor right away. Gonorrhea is a treatable infection, but it is important to get treatment as soon as possible to prevent serious health problems.
Here are some ways to prevent gonorrhea:
- Abstaining from sexual activity
- Using condoms every time you have sex
- Getting tested for STIs regularly
- Getting vaccinated against gonorrhea (the vaccine is not 100% effective, but it can help protect against the infection)
If you are sexually active, it is important to talk to your doctor about ways to prevent STIs.