Gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is one of the most common STIs worldwide. It can affect both men and women, but the symptoms in men are often more noticeable and can cause serious health problems if left untreated. It’s important to be aware of the key symptoms of gonorrhea in men so that it can be identified and treated promptly.
The most common symptoms of gonorrhea in men include:
1. Pain or burning during urination: One of the most common and noticeable symptoms of gonorrhea in men is pain or a burning sensation when urinating. This is caused by the inflammation of the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside of the body.
2. Penile discharge: Another key symptom of gonorrhea in men is an unusual discharge from the penis. The discharge may be white, yellow, or green in color and can be thick or thin in consistency.
3. Swelling or pain in the testicles: In some cases, gonorrhea can lead to inflammation of the testicles, which can cause pain and swelling in the scrotum.
4. Sore throat: Gonorrhea can also be transmitted through oral sex, leading to a sore throat in men who have been infected.
5. Rectal symptoms: Men who engage in anal sex can also experience symptoms of gonorrhea in the rectum, including discharge, itching, and painful bowel movements.
It’s important to note that some men may not experience any symptoms at all, making it easy to unknowingly pass the infection on to sexual partners. This is why regular testing for STIs is important, especially for those who are sexually active with multiple partners.
If you suspect that you may have gonorrhea, it’s important to seek medical advice and get tested as soon as possible. Gonorrhea can be easily diagnosed with a simple urine test or swab from the infected area. If you test positive for gonorrhea, it can be easily treated with antibiotics.
Left untreated, gonorrhea can lead to serious health problems, including infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and an increased risk of HIV transmission. It can also be passed on to sexual partners, leading to further spread of the infection.
With the prevalence of gonorrhea worldwide, it’s important for men to be aware of the key symptoms of the infection and to seek medical attention promptly if they suspect they have been infected. Prevention is also key, and practicing safe sex, including using condoms, can help reduce the risk of contracting gonorrhea and other STIs.
