Symptoms and Treatments of Chlamydia Infections

Chlamydia is one of the most common genital infections in the industrialized world. It is estimated that between four and six million people are infected each year in the United States. Chlamydia is often asymptomatic and may be passed between partners unknowingly. It is referred to as a silent epidemic as sufferers may be unaware of their infection. Young women are more likely to become infected because of the anatomy of their cervix.

What are the Symptoms of Chlamydia

After being infected with Chlamydia, a person may show symptoms weeks, months or years later. In over 50% of cases, people remain symptom-free for life. If symptoms do develop, they commonly include the following:

• Discharge from the penis or vagina

• Burning on urination

• An itchy feeling in the urethra

• Lower abdominal pain

• Redness on the tip of the penis

• Bleeding between periods

• Mucous rectal discharge in those who have engaged in anal intercourse

• Rectal bleeding, diarrhea and pain on bowel movements in those who have engaged in anal intercourse

What Damage can Chlamydia Cause

Chlamydia can cause a number of problems including internal scarring and sterility so it is important to seek immediate treatment if a case is suspected. In women, the infection can involve the uterus, fallopian tubes and cervix. In men it can travel to the scrotum and cause epididymitis. If there is any possibility of a Chlamydia infection, the person should seek medical advice and ask to be tested. This can be done by analyzing a urine sample or taking swabs from the infected areas. A physical examination will also be needed to determine the extent of the infection.

What Treatments are Used for Chlamydia Infections

Chlamydia infections can be treated with antibiotics with great success. The most common forms of treatment are a week course of doxycycline or a single dose of azithromycin. Doctors recommend abstinence while being treated or re-infection may occur. If the infection has caused further infections in the pelvic or prostrate area, a longer course of treatment may be necessary. A pregnant woman can be safely treated with erythromycin. It is important that both partners are tested for the infection and any previous sexual partners be informed that they may also be infected.

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection that responds well to treatment. Leaving it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and infertility. If a person suspects they may be infected, they should seek medical advice as soon as they possibly can.

Reference:

Sexually Transmitted Diseases , Lisa Marr, The John Hopkins University Press, 2007