Urethritis is inflammation of the
urethra (the passage in the penis that urine and semen pass through). It can be
specific or non-specific caused by gonorrhoea or chlamydia respectively. NSU one
of the most common STDs can be acquired through vaginal sex or, less commonly,
through anal or oral sex with men or women. It can also be contracted with out
sexual contact. NSU can be caused by a number of different micro-organisms, one
of them is Chlamydia trachomatis which is responsible for around 50% of the infections.
It is commonly found in the rectum, urethra, conjunctiva of the eye, vagina, cervix
and mouth.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually appear
7-28 days after infection.
• White, clear or
yellowish discharge from the penis
• Stinging or burning sensation
during urination
• Itching, tingling, burning or irritation inside the
penis.
• Pain or swelling in the testicles in advanced infections.
Adverse
effects If nonspecific urethritis is left untreated,
it can cause complications. It can spread to the bladder which will cause pain
during urinating and perhaps some bleeding. It may also spread to the testicles
and cause infection or inflammation which will result in pain, swelling and tenderness
of the testicles and/or rectum. If NSU spreads to the prostate there will be pain
in the groin. Less commonly there may be conjunctivitis or pain and inflammation
in the joints. In extreme cases it can cause pelvic inflammatory disease in women
and infertility in both men and women.
Tests A
sample of the discharge is taken to detect the micro-organism present. The sample
is then examined in the laboratory for signs of infection. Samples should be taken
3 or 4 hours after you last passed urine. Although NSU does not cause symptoms
in women, female partners of men with NSU may need to be examined.
Treatment The
infection is treated with tetracycline or alternative antibiotics if allergies
are a concern until the infection is clear. It is completely curable but symptoms
can reoccur and may require further treatment. It is better not to have sex
until all results of your tests are back and you have finished taking all the
tablets. Antibiotics treatment should be given to sexual partners, even if they
do not show symptoms and barrier methods of contraception should be used to prevent
re-infection.
Note : All statements given are only for information purpose. We are not responsible or liable for any problems related to the utilization of information on this site. We suggest that you consult a qualified doctor before trying any alternative health care remedies.
