Which are the symptoms of Gonorrhea?

Symptoms of Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can affect both men and women and is primarily transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. While some individuals with gonorrhea may not experience any symptoms, it is important to be aware of the potential signs and symptoms that may indicate an infection.

Common Symptoms:

1. Painful Urination: One of the most common symptoms of gonorrhea is a burning sensation or pain while urinating. This discomfort is often accompanied by an increased urge to urinate.

2. Abnormal Discharge: Another typical symptom is an unusual discharge from the penis or vagina. In men, this discharge is usually white, yellow, or greenish, while in women, it may be white or yellow.

3. Increased Vaginal Discharge: Women with gonorrhea may experience an increase in vaginal discharge, which may be accompanied by a strong odor.

4. Painful or Swollen Testicles: Men infected with gonorrhea may experience pain or swelling in the testicles. This symptom is less common but should not be ignored.

5. Painful Bowel Movements: In some cases, gonorrhea can cause rectal discomfort and pain during bowel movements, particularly if the infection is transmitted through anal sex.

Less Common Symptoms:

In addition to the common symptoms mentioned above, gonorrhea can also present with less common signs, including:

1. Sore Throat: If gonorrhea is transmitted through oral sex, it can cause a sore throat. However, this symptom is less common and may be mistaken for a regular throat infection.

2. Conjunctivitis: In rare cases, gonorrhea can infect the eyes, leading to conjunctivitis (pink eye). This can occur if infected genital fluids come into contact with the eyes.

3. Anal Itching: Gonorrhea transmitted through anal sex may cause itching and discomfort around the anus.

Asymptomatic Cases:

It is important to note that many individuals infected with gonorrhea do not experience any noticeable symptoms. This is particularly true in women, making it crucial for sexually active individuals to undergo regular screenings to detect and treat gonorrhea and other sexually transmitted infections.

Seeking Medical Attention:

If you suspect you may have gonorrhea or have been exposed to someone with the infection, it is important to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional can perform tests to diagnose gonorrhea and provide appropriate treatment. Untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, and an increased risk of contracting HIV.