Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by Chlamydia trachomatis bacteria. This infection is treatable and curable, yet its symptoms are frequently unnoticeable.
Understanding Oropharyngeal Chlamydia
Chlamydia can infect the throat, a condition known as oropharyngeal chlamydia. This occurs when the Chlamydia trachomatis bacterium infects the throat’s mucous membranes. Transmission occurs through oral sexual contact with an infected partner, including oral-penile, oral-vaginal, and oral-anal sex. While less common than genital infections, the bacteria can affect areas such as the tonsils, pharynx, and larynx.
Recognizing Symptoms
Oropharyngeal chlamydia is often asymptomatic, with many infected individuals experiencing no noticeable signs. This “silent infection” characteristic makes routine testing important for detection. When symptoms do manifest, they can include a sore throat, redness in the throat, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Some individuals might also experience a mild fever or mouth pain. These symptoms are often subtle and can easily be mistaken for common infections like a cold or strep throat.
Testing and Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis of oropharyngeal chlamydia requires specific testing, as symptoms are unreliable indicators. Diagnosis involves taking a throat swab, often from the pharynx or tonsillar fossae. This specimen is sent for laboratory analysis, typically using Nucleic Acid Amplification Tests (NAATs) to detect the bacteria’s DNA. While urine samples can diagnose genital chlamydia, a throat swab is necessary to confirm an oral infection. Individuals who have engaged in oral sex with new or multiple partners, or if a partner has been diagnosed with chlamydia, should consider getting tested.
Treatment and Prevention
Oropharyngeal chlamydia is curable with antibiotics. Common treatment regimens include a single dose of azithromycin or a seven-day course of doxycycline. A healthcare professional should be consulted for proper diagnosis and prescription. It is important to complete the entire course of prescribed medication, even if symptoms improve. Abstain from sexual activity for at least seven days after a single-dose treatment, or until the full course is completed and symptoms have resolved.
Prevention involves practicing safer sex, including consistent and correct use of barrier methods like condoms during oral sex. Dental dams can also be used during oral sex to reduce the risk of transmission. Regular STI screening is another important preventive measure, especially for individuals who are sexually active or have multiple partners. Discussing STI history and testing practices with sexual partners contributes to overall sexual health.