Gonococcal Urethritis: Symptoms, Treatment, and Care - Urology

More Info

---

Gonococcal urethritis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It primarily affects the urethra, leading to a range of symptoms and requiring specific treatment. Based on your description, it seems you are experiencing symptoms consistent with this condition, including painful urination, discharge, and swelling of the foreskin.

Symptoms of Gonococcal Urethritis
The symptoms of gonococcal urethritis can include:
- Painful urination (dysuria): This is often described as a burning sensation during urination.

- Discharge: Typically, the discharge is purulent (pus-like) and can be yellow or green in color.

- Swelling or inflammation: This can occur in the urethra or the surrounding areas, including the foreskin.

- Increased frequency of urination: You may feel the urge to urinate more often, even if little urine is produced.

- Pain during intercourse: This can occur due to inflammation and irritation.


Treatment Recommendations
1. Continue with prescribed antibiotics: If your doctor has prescribed Dolcol (which contains the antibiotic doxycycline), it is important to complete the course as directed. However, if you are not experiencing any improvement in your symptoms, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider sooner rather than later. Gonococcal infections can sometimes be resistant to certain antibiotics, and your doctor may need to adjust your treatment based on your symptoms and test results.

2. Seek immediate medical attention: Given that you are still experiencing significant symptoms, including persistent pain and discharge, it would be advisable to contact your healthcare provider before your next scheduled appointment. They may want to perform additional tests or change your treatment plan based on your current condition.

3. Managing foreskin swelling: For the swelling of the foreskin, it is generally recommended to avoid tight clothing, as this can exacerbate discomfort and restrict blood flow. Wearing loose-fitting underwear can help alleviate pressure and allow for better drainage of any discharge. If the swelling is severe or accompanied by pain, it may require further evaluation by a healthcare professional.
4. Avoid self-treatment: While it may be tempting to try home remedies or over-the-counter treatments, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan. Self-treatment can lead to complications or worsen the infection.


Follow-Up Care
- Monitor your symptoms: Keep track of any changes in your symptoms, including the severity of pain, changes in discharge, or any new symptoms that develop.

- Testing for other STIs: Gonococcal urethritis often occurs alongside other sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia. It may be beneficial to get tested for other STIs as well.

- Partner notification: If you are diagnosed with gonococcal urethritis, it is important to inform any sexual partners so they can also seek testing and treatment to prevent reinfection.


Conclusion
Gonococcal urethritis is a serious condition that requires prompt and effective treatment. Given your ongoing symptoms, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider and seek further evaluation as needed. Proper management will not only help alleviate your current symptoms but also prevent potential complications associated with untreated infections. Always prioritize your health and do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for guidance.