Gonorrhea, also known as tulo, is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent complications and the spread of the infection. Diagnosis typically involves specific medical tests to confirm the presence of the bacteria.
Common Symptoms of Gonorrhea
- Unusual discharge. In men, this often appears as a white, yellow, or green discharge from the penis. In women, it may present as increased vaginal discharge.
- Pain during urination. A burning sensation while urinating is a common symptom for both men and women.
- Pelvic or abdominal pain. In women, this may occur if the infection spreads to the reproductive organs.
- Swelling or pain in the testicles. In men, gonorrhea can cause discomfort or swelling in one or both testicles.
- Throat discomfort. If contracted through oral sex, gonorrhea may cause a sore throat or swollen lymph nodes in the neck.
- Rectal symptoms. These may include itching, discharge, or pain during bowel movements if the infection affects the rectum.
Diagnostic Tests for Gonorrhea
To confirm the infection, healthcare providers may conduct one or more of the following tests:
- Urinalysis. A urine sample is tested to detect the presence of the bacteria in the urinary tract.
- Swab tests.
- Urethral swab for men. A sample is taken from the urethra to test for bacterial infection.
- Vaginal or cervical swab for women. This is used to identify bacteria in the reproductive tract.
- Throat or rectal swab. If symptoms suggest infection in these areas, a swab is collected and analyzed in the laboratory.
- Nucleic acid amplification test (NAAT). This highly accurate test detects the genetic material of the bacteria and is often performed using urine or swab samples.
When to See a Doctor
If you experience any symptoms of gonorrhea or suspect exposure to the infection, consult a healthcare professional promptly. Untreated gonorrhea can lead to serious complications, including infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, or epididymitis in men.
The Importance of Early Diagnosis
Gonorrhea is a treatable infection, typically managed with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Early diagnosis not only alleviates symptoms but also prevents the infection from spreading to others. Practicing safe sex and regular screenings are vital in protecting yourself and your partners from sexually transmitted infections like gonorrhea.
