Many people are at risk of gonococcal infections without their knowledge. Likewise, many carry the bacterium in their bodies without realizing it. Women are more resilient in tolerating the disease in their bodies than men. It is not clear why the disease can incubate in the host for a certain period without showing any signs of sickness. The risk is you may still be active and infecting others during this period. That is why it is highly necessary to have a culture of regular screening and testing.
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Vulnerable Groups
Though everyone is in danger of the infections, some persons are highly exposed to the disease. These include
- Persons who have unsafe sex
- Gay community
- Lesbians
- Persons with multiple sexual partners
- Drug addicts sharing needles
- Caregivers
- If you suspect any risk exposure to the bacteria
Diagnosis of Gonorrhea
Testing for the disease can be in two areas. If you have any indication of gonorrhea symptoms, you can visit the hospital for checking. At the clinic, the doctor will start by inquiring about your sexual data. Then, why you think you should have a test. After the formalities, the doctor will proceed for a physical examination for any indications.
Gonorrhea testing depends on suspicion. There are four types of tests that you may have. These are testing for gonorrhea in the genitals, rectum, throat, and eye. Mostly, genital and anal testing is standard. The medical practitioner will collect samples from the affected area using a clinical swab. Some doctors will prefer a blood or urine sample. The laboratory test will single out any presence of the gonococcal bacteria. Depending on the outcome, the prescription will follow or not.
Some people prefer a home test kit for testing at their homes. This is available in most chemists and online platforms. The testing instructions are simple, and the results precise. If your results come back positive, then you can opt for a clinical confirmation.
Read More: Gonorreha Symptoms
Effects of Late Diagnosis
The late diagnosis of gonorrhea can cause severe damage to other body organs. Since it can take some time before it manifests in your body, you can quickly treat symptoms thinking of other ailments. Then the bacteria find a way into the bloodstream. This opportunistic disease goes into your liver, eyes, stomach, heart, and other vital organs.
Besides that, your reproductive organs will suffer irreparable damage. For women, you may experience loss of your fallopian tubes and uterus. In the case of pregnancy, you may have bouts of ectopic pregnancies or even pass the bacteria to the child. In men, your urethra may damage and end up with prostate malfunction. Other severe cases include loss of your testicles, erectile dysfunction, and getting HIV.