Don’t Ignore These: 7 Unmistakable Gonorrhea Symptoms You Need to Know

Gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, is becoming increasingly common. In the United States, more than 550,000 cases are reported every year. Unfortunately, it’s also becoming more resistant to antibiotics, which is why it’s crucial to recognize the symptoms early on.

Here are seven unmistakable symptoms of gonorrhea:

1. Painful and frequent urination
One of the most common symptoms of gonorrhea is painful and frequent urination. This happens because the bacteria invade the urethra, causing inflammation, pain, and a burning sensation when peeing.

2. Discharge
If you notice a yellowish or greenish discharge coming out of your genitals, it’s a clear sign of gonorrhea. The discharge can be thick and sticky, and it usually has a foul odor. In men, the discharge comes out of the penis, while in women, it comes out of the vagina.

3. Rectal pain and discharge
Gonorrhea can also infect the rectum in people who engage in anal sex. If you experience pain when passing stool, itching, or discharge from the anus, it’s a warning sign of gonorrhea.

4. Sore throat
If you engage in oral sex with someone infected with gonorrhea, you may develop a sore throat. The throat may feel swollen, and you may experience difficulty swallowing.

5. Painful intercourse
Gonorrhea can cause inflammation of the cervix in women and the urethra in men. This can lead to pain during intercourse, along with vaginal bleeding in women.

6. Swollen testicles
In men, gonorrhea can cause the testicles to swell and become painful. This can happen if the bacteria travel up the urethra and infect the epididymis, which is a tube located behind the testicles.

7. Eye infection
Gonorrhea can cause an eye infection if infected genital fluids come into contact with the eyes during sex. This can lead to eye pain, redness, and discharge.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention right away. Gonorrhea can be cured with antibiotics, but untreated cases can lead to serious complications, such as pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility. Remember, the best way to prevent gonorrhea is to practice safe sex, use condoms, and get tested regularly.