Gonorrhea in Men

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted disease caused by infection with the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. This infection mainly affects the reproductive organs, but can also spread to the rectum and throat and is particularly common among young people. (1)


What are the symptoms of gonorrhea in men?

In many cases, gonorrhea infection causes no symptoms. If there are symptoms, they most often affect the reproductive system, but they may also occur in other places. It is common for an affected man to experience the following: (2) (3)


  • Pain or burning when urinating.
  • White, yellow, or green, pus-like discharge from the tip of the penis.
  • Redness around the penis opening.
  • Pain or swelling in one testicle.


Gonorrhea can also affect other parts of the body, with symptoms appearing as: (2)


  • Rectum: Anal itching, pus-like discharge from the rectum, bright red blood after defecation, and the need to strain during defecation.
  • Eyes: Eye pain (ophthalmalgia), photophobia and pus-like discharge from one or both eyes.
  • Throat: Sore throat, swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
  • Joints: Warmth, redness, swelling, and pain in the affected joint, especially during movement.




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How is Gonorrhea transmitted in men?

Gonorrhea is contagious and spreads easily when the bacteria that causes the disease enter your body through sexual fluids, such as semen or vaginal discharge - often when having unprotected sex with an infected person. These bacteria can to intervene your body through Penis, vagina, mouth, or anus. It is not necessary for you or your partner to ejaculate to transmit the bacteria.


Gonorrhea does not spread through: (4)

  • Kissing, hugging, or holding hands.
  • Sharing food, drinks, or utensils.
  • Using the toilet after an infected person.
  • Inhaling droplets after coughing or sneezing.


Diagnosis Gonorrhea in men

Gonorrhea in men can be diagnosed by taking a urine sample and examining it to detect the bacteria causing gonorrhea. In some cases, the doctor may take a swab from the genitals or other suspected infected areas, such as the urethra, throat, or eye secretions. (5)


Can gonorrhea in men be treated?

Yes, gonorrhea can be easily treated with antibiotics. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend a single 500 mg intramuscular injection of the antibiotic ceftriaxone or alternative treatments if ceftriaxone is unavailable. Keep in mind that while the medication will completely treat the infection, it will not repair any permanent damage caused by the disease if treatment was delayed. (5)


warning:

  • You should wait at least 7 days after receiving the medication - and until symptoms disappear, which may take longer - before having sex with your partner.
  • The test should be repeated 3 months after the initial infection has been treated; because recurrence is common. (1)


What happens if gonorrhea is not treated?

If gonorrhea in men is not treated, it can lead to serious complications, such as: (1)

  • Infertility in rare cases.
  • The infection spreads to the blood or joints, which is a life-threatening condition.
  • Increased chances of having other sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV (AIDS).


Gonorrhea prevention in men

Abstaining from sex is the only surefire way to prevent gonorrhea, but these practices can significantly reduce your risk of infection :( 2)


  • Use a condom: This is the most effective way to prevent the spread of gonorrhea, and be sure to use it correctly every time.
  • Get regular STD checks: If you are sexually active, especially with new partners.
  • Avoid sexual intercourse with someone who has symptoms: Gonorrhea can sometimes be asymptomatic, but if your partner has symptoms, avoid sexual activity until being tested and treated.



References