Gonorrhea Treatment and Follow-Up Care for Throat Infections

Q: Gonorrhea Treatment and Follow-Up Care for Throat Infections

Hello： Throat issues are not managed by urology, so if you have symptoms, please consult the relevant specialist. <br>If there are concerns about test results, seek evaluation at a major hospital. <br>Wishing you good health.

Gonorrhea Treatment Before and After

Hello Doctor, I have been experiencing a persistent sore throat and excessive phlegm for a long time.
Before starting a relationship with my new boyfriend, I had tested negative for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but I did not undergo a throat swab.
Over the past year, I have had recurrent urinary tract infections almost every season, which I find strange, and my throat symptoms have become more pronounced.
Concerned about affecting my partner, I asked him to get tested for STIs, and I specifically requested a throat STI test for myself.
The results showed that everything below was normal, but my throat tested positive for gonorrhea (Gonorrhea DNA; NG Positive).
My partner only had a genital test, which was normal.
I often perform oral sex on my boyfriend, and I am puzzled as to why his genital test came back normal.
I have some doubts about the accuracy of the testing.
Just to be safe, we both received a dose of the Sintrix vaccine.
During the treatment, we abstained from sexual intercourse, kissing, and oral sex.
However, it has been two weeks, and I still feel a foreign body sensation in my throat, and swallowing is somewhat painful.
I am hesitant about whether to seek further medical attention; the urologist we consulted previously said a follow-up was unnecessary, but I still feel uneasy.
Given this situation, would you recommend a follow-up appointment? If so, what kind of tests would be advisable? Also, I am unsure if the National Health Insurance will cover a follow-up test for gonorrhea.
Would you recommend going to the same urology clinic for testing since they have my medical history? The last time I had symptoms, I paid out of pocket for eight STI tests, including throat and genital tests, which cost over six thousand NT dollars.
To be honest, it is somewhat financially burdensome, so I am contemplating whether there is any coverage under the health insurance.
I would greatly appreciate your assistance in addressing my concerns.
Thank you very much.

Xiao Yu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/12

Dr. Du Shixi reply Urology

Hello: Throat issues are not managed by urology, so if you have symptoms, please consult the relevant specialist.
If there are concerns about test results, seek evaluation at a major hospital.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/05/12

More Info

Gonorrhea, caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can affect various parts of the body, including the throat. Your symptoms of throat discomfort and the positive test for gonorrhea in the throat indicate that you may have a pharyngeal gonorrhea infection, which can occur through oral sexual contact with an infected partner.

Treatment for Gonorrhea
The standard treatment for gonorrhea typically involves antibiotics. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) currently recommends a dual therapy approach, which includes:
1. Ceftriaxone: An injectable antibiotic, usually given as a single dose.

2. Azithromycin: An oral antibiotic, also given as a single dose.

This combination is effective against gonorrhea and helps prevent the development of antibiotic resistance. It is crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed, even if symptoms improve before finishing the medication.

Follow-Up Care
After treatment, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure that the infection has been cleared. Symptoms such as persistent throat discomfort or a sensation of a foreign body in the throat after treatment may warrant further evaluation. Here are some considerations for follow-up:
1. Re-testing: It is advisable to have a follow-up test for gonorrhea approximately one week after completing treatment, especially if symptoms persist. This can help confirm that the infection has been successfully treated.

2. Testing for Other STIs: Since gonorrhea can often co-occur with other STIs, it may be beneficial to get tested for other infections, such as chlamydia, syphilis, and HIV.

3. Consultation with a Specialist: If your symptoms continue or worsen, consider seeing an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or returning to your urologist for further evaluation. They may perform a throat culture or additional tests to rule out other causes of your symptoms.

Insurance and Costs
Regarding insurance coverage for STI testing, it varies by plan. Many health insurance plans cover STI testing, including gonorrhea, especially if it is deemed medically necessary. It is advisable to contact your insurance provider to inquire about coverage for follow-up testing and whether it will be covered if you return to the same urologist or seek care elsewhere.

Conclusion
In summary, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider if you continue to experience symptoms after treatment for gonorrhea. Persistent symptoms could indicate that the infection has not been fully resolved or that there may be another underlying issue. Re-testing and possibly seeing a specialist can provide clarity and ensure that you receive appropriate care. Additionally, understanding your insurance coverage can help alleviate some financial concerns associated with follow-up testing. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your symptoms and any concerns you may have.

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