Gonorrhea Treatment Challenges and Symptoms

Q: Gonorrhea Treatment Challenges and Symptoms

Hello： If tests do not show any evidence, then there is no indication of a problem. <br>For urinary issues, it is important to drink plenty of water; beverages other than water are not recommended, and alcohol and spicy foods should be avoided. <br>Aim for at least half an hour o

Gonorrhea treatment issues

Hello Doctor, I suspect that I have contracted gonorrhea, but I have tested negative for abnormalities in my urine on three occasions.
Although I no longer have any discharge and have been taking the antibiotics prescribed by my doctor for over two weeks, I do not experience any discomfort while urinating.
However, the area near the glans penis, close to the urethral opening, is still red, and sometimes I feel a stinging sensation in the urethra.
Occasionally, I also experience mild dull pain in my lower abdomen and testicles.
My doctor believes that I do not have any inflammation, so he did not prescribe any additional antibiotics.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Do these remaining symptoms indicate that I still have a bacterial infection? 2.
After taking antibiotics for such a long time, why does it seem like there is no effect? Could it be that I was taking antibiotics during the urine tests, which prevented the detection of an infection? 3.
Is there anything specific I should pay attention to in my diet during this period? Thank you.

Da, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/06

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: If tests do not show any evidence, then there is no indication of a problem.
For urinary issues, it is important to drink plenty of water; beverages other than water are not recommended, and alcohol and spicy foods should be avoided.
Aim for at least half an hour of walking each day, ensure adequate sleep, and avoid prolonged standing or sitting.
Wear loose-fitting underwear, and make sure to dry the area thoroughly after bathing.
For now, avoid using soap or body wash on that area continuously.
Thank you for your inquiry.

Reply Date: 2017/01/06

More Info

Gonorrhea, caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can lead to various complications if left untreated. Your concerns regarding persistent symptoms despite antibiotic treatment and negative urine tests are valid and warrant further discussion.

1. Persistent Symptoms and Infection: The symptoms you describe—redness near the urethral opening, occasional stinging during urination, and dull pain in the lower abdomen and testicles—could indicate several possibilities. While it's reassuring that your doctor did not find signs of inflammation, persistent symptoms do not always correlate with an active infection. It's possible that you may be experiencing post-infectious symptoms, which can occur even after the bacteria have been cleared. However, it is also possible that a different infection or condition could be causing these symptoms, such as a non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU), which can be caused by other bacteria or irritants.
2. Antibiotic Efficacy and Testing: Regarding your concern about the effectiveness of the antibiotics, it is indeed possible that the antibiotics you were taking during the urine tests could have interfered with the detection of the bacteria. Antibiotics can suppress the growth of bacteria, leading to false-negative results. If you were treated with antibiotics for a suspected gonorrhea infection, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may recommend a different type of test, such as a swab test from the urethra or a nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT), which can be more sensitive than urine tests.

3. Dietary Considerations: While there are no specific dietary restrictions for someone undergoing treatment for gonorrhea, maintaining a healthy diet can support your immune system. It's advisable to stay hydrated and consume a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoiding alcohol and recreational drugs is also recommended, as these can interfere with your body's ability to heal and may interact with medications.

In summary, while your symptoms may not necessarily indicate an ongoing gonorrhea infection, it is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns. They may consider further testing or a referral to a specialist if symptoms persist. Additionally, if you have had unprotected sexual contact, it is crucial to inform your partners so they can also get tested and treated if necessary. Remember, timely and appropriate treatment is key to preventing complications associated with STIs.

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