Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It can affect both men and women and is curable. Understanding its potential indicators is important for health and preventing its spread. It often presents subtly, making awareness of its signs valuable.
Recognizing Chlamydia Symptoms
Men infected with chlamydia may experience a range of symptoms, though these are often mild and easily overlooked. Common signs include urethral discharge, which can be clear, watery, cloudy, or pus-like, oozing from the penis.
Another frequent symptom is painful urination, or dysuria, described as a burning or stinging sensation. Some men might also notice redness, swelling, or itching around the urethra’s opening.
The infection can spread to the epididymis, a tube at the back of the testicle, leading to epididymitis. This causes pain, tenderness, or swelling in one or both testicles. Chlamydia can also cause rectal pain, discharge, bleeding, or a sore throat from pharyngeal infection.
The Asymptomatic Reality
Chlamydia in men often lacks noticeable symptoms, earning it the term “silent” infection. Approximately 50% or more of men with chlamydia may not experience any signs, even though they can transmit the bacterium.
This asymptomatic nature challenges early detection, as individuals may unknowingly carry the infection. The bacterium is still present and can cause health issues or be passed to sexual partners. This silent spread underscores the importance of regular testing, particularly for sexually active individuals.
Risks of Untreated Chlamydia
If chlamydia remains undiagnosed and untreated, it can lead to several health complications in men. One notable risk is epididymitis, an inflammation of the epididymis. This condition can cause chronic scrotal pain and, in rare instances, affect fertility by damaging sperm-carrying tubes.
Untreated chlamydia can also trigger reactive arthritis, an inflammatory arthritis. Symptoms include joint pain and swelling, often affecting the knees, ankles, or feet, along with eye inflammation and urinary problems.
An untreated chlamydia infection can increase susceptibility to other sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. The inflammation can make mucous membranes more vulnerable, facilitating the entry of other pathogens.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing chlamydia in men typically involves simple, non-invasive tests. The most common method is a urine test, analyzing a sample for the bacterium. Depending on sexual exposure, a healthcare provider might also collect swab samples from the urethra, rectum, or throat.
Chlamydia is effectively treated with antibiotics. Common prescriptions include a single dose of azithromycin or a course of doxycycline for 7 to 14 days. Complete the entire course of medication to ensure the infection is fully eradicated.
During treatment, abstain from sexual activity for at least seven days after starting medication or until all symptoms resolve. Notifying and treating all sexual partners from the past 60 days is important to prevent reinfection and further transmission. Retesting three months after treatment is also recommended to confirm cure and check for reinfection.
Preventing Chlamydia
Several strategies can reduce the risk of contracting or transmitting chlamydia. Consistent and correct use of condoms during all types of sexual activity, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex, is an effective barrier method.
Regular STI testing is an important preventive measure, especially for sexually active individuals, those with new or multiple partners. Open communication with sexual partners about STI status and testing history contributes to safer practices. Limiting the number of sexual partners also reduces exposure risk.