Gonorrhea: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

Gonorrhea is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacteria Neisseria gonorrhoeae. These bacteria thrive and multiply rapidly in moist and warm areas of the body, such as the cervix in women, the urethra, mouth, and rectum.

Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Men:

1. Burning sensation during urination
2. Yellow, white, or green discharge from the penis accompanied by severe pain
3. Swollen testicles or pain in the testicular area
4. Itching in the anal region, sometimes with bloody stools; applicable to both men and women

Symptoms of Gonorrhea in Women:

1. Symptoms may be subtle or absent, but they can include:
2. Burning sensation during urination
3. Increased yellow or blood-tinged vaginal discharge
4. Bleeding before or after menstruation
5. Nausea, fever, vomiting

Diagnostic Tests for Gonorrhea:

1. Swab for Culture:

Laboratory test involving swabbing secretions from the genital area to check for the presence of gonorrhea-causing bacteria.

2. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR):

A costly test that examines the DNA of the bacteria.

Treatment for Gonorrhea:

Gonorrhea treatment often involves addressing Chlamydia as well since these infections commonly occur together. The choice of treatment depends on the patient's age and pregnancy status. 

For non-resistant gonorrhea affecting the cervix, urethra, and rectum, medications such as cephalosporin and macrolide antibiotics (e.g., azithromycin) along with penicillin-type antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline) for Chlamydia may be prescribed. Injections are often administered, especially for those under 18 and pregnant women.

It is crucial to seek a doctor's advice before taking medications, particularly for pregnant women, as some drugs may have adverse effects.

Consequences of Untreated Gonorrhea:

1. Infertility in both men and women
2. Potential damage to the heart, brain, skin, etc.
3. Joint inflammation
4. Increased risk of Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID) in women
5. Complications during pregnancy and childbirth, risking premature labor and neonatal infections.

Preventing Gonorrhea:

1. Consistent condom use during sexual activity
2. Maintaining monogamous relationships
3. Pregnant women should attend early clinics for thorough examinations and appropriate treatment if diagnosed with gonorrhea or other infections.
4. Pregnant women should give birth in a hospital to ensure prompt treatment for infants if they are affected.

Note: There is no foolproof method for safe sex, and the only effective way to prevent sexually transmitted infections is to abstain from or protect against sexual activities. Those who have had gonorrhea before are susceptible to reinfection without proper treatment.