Gonorrhea: Symptoms, Treatment, and Follow-Up Care - Urology

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Suspected Gonorrhea Issues


Hello Doctor, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with a woman on September 18th (oral sex without a condom).
A week later, on the 25th, I noticed pain while urinating after masturbating in the morning, but after drinking more water, the pain subsided by the afternoon.
Two days later, I noticed two pimple-like bumps on my glans and foreskin.
On September 30th, I consulted a doctor who suspected gonorrhea and prescribed me Azithromycin 250mg, 4 tablets to be taken all at once after a meal, and also administered an injection of Sodium Chloride 0.9% + Ceftriaxone.
Do I still need to get blood tests and a urine test? Thank you.
Additionally, I would like to ask if gonorrhea treatment typically requires a one or two-week course of injections and medication? Is this one-day treatment a new regimen? Thank you for your kind response, Doctor!

Alexi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/09/30

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology


Hello: This is the standard treatment recommended by the CDC in the United States, which can lead to a cure.
However, it is advised to practice safe sex, as repeated or multiple infections can lead to drug resistance.
Testing can certainly be done.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2019/09/30

More Info


Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It can affect various parts of the body, including the genitals, rectum, and throat. Understanding the symptoms, treatment, and follow-up care for gonorrhea is crucial for effective management and prevention of complications.


Symptoms of Gonorrhea
Symptoms of gonorrhea can vary between individuals and may not always be present. Common symptoms include:
- In Men: Painful urination, pus-like discharge from the penis, swollen or painful testicles, and sometimes sore throat if oral sex was involved.

- In Women: Increased vaginal discharge, painful urination, bleeding between periods, and pelvic pain. Many women may be asymptomatic, which can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment.

In your case, the symptoms you experienced—painful urination and the appearance of bumps on the glans and foreskin—are concerning and warrant further investigation.


Treatment of Gonorrhea
The treatment for gonorrhea typically involves antibiotics. The regimen you received—Azithromycin 250 mg taken as a single dose along with an injection of Ceftriaxone—is a common and effective treatment protocol. This combination is recommended due to increasing antibiotic resistance seen in gonorrhea cases.
The treatment you received is indeed a new approach that is effective for uncomplicated gonorrhea. Historically, treatment regimens required multiple doses over a week or more, but the current guidelines have shifted towards single-dose therapies for certain cases, especially in uncomplicated infections.


Follow-Up Care
After treatment, follow-up care is essential to ensure the infection has been cleared. Here are some steps you should consider:
1. Testing: It is recommended to have a follow-up test to confirm that the infection has been successfully treated. This is typically done about one week after completing the antibiotic regimen. You should discuss with your healthcare provider whether you need to undergo urine testing or blood tests to confirm the absence of the infection.

2. Partner Notification: It is crucial to inform any sexual partners about your diagnosis so they can also get tested and treated if necessary. This helps prevent reinfection and further spread of the disease.

3. Avoiding Sexual Activity: It is advisable to refrain from sexual activity until you and your partner(s) have been treated and cleared of the infection to prevent transmission.

4. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep an eye on any recurring symptoms. If you experience persistent pain, unusual discharge, or any new symptoms, it is important to return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

5. Regular STI Screening: If you are sexually active, especially with new or multiple partners, regular STI screenings are recommended as part of routine healthcare.


Conclusion
Gonorrhea is a treatable infection, but it is essential to follow through with testing and treatment protocols to ensure complete recovery. The single-dose treatment you received is effective, but follow-up testing is crucial to confirm that the infection has been eradicated. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns, and do not hesitate to seek further care if needed.

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