Oral gonorrhea, also referred to as pharyngeal gonorrhea, is a bacterial illness that, if left untreated, may be life-threatening. Infection occurs with the bacterium, which is capable of spreading through all body fluids and saliva, hence taking dangerous turns through complications arising from this.
02 October 2024
3 min read
3103
Oral Gonorrhea: Complications
It can lead to life-threatening complications: the infection can certainly be transmitted to the genital area, leading to debilitating conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease in women and inflammation of the sperm-carrying tube in men; these two conditions may then result in reduced fertility. Also, when the bacterium has invaded the bloodstream, it can give rise to systemic inflammation, arthritis, and skin sores-all of which may become life-threatening.
Understanding Oral Gonorrhea and Its Prevalence
Few studies have rigorously assessed the prevalence of oral gonorrhea, and most of the research involves groups of sexually active adults, such as men who have sex with men. The idea that STDs can't be spread via oral sex is an incredibly damaging myth. Along with gonorrhea, syphilis, and chlamydia can take up residence in the throat.
Who's at Risk?
Due to the nature of their sexual relations, the following groups are at a more or greater risk of developing oral gonorrhea:
Men who have sex with men. Anyone practicing oral sex. Anyone involved in polygamous relationships.
Symptoms of Oral Gonorrhea
At times, gonorrhea of the mouth may be entirely symptom-free, or symptoms maybe like that of strep throat. The signs and symptoms include:
A sore red throat. Difficulty swallowing. Painless sore in the mouth. Discharge-White or yellowish. Tonsillitis. Red with white spots strep throat-like symptoms. Cold sore-like lesions. Fever blisters on the mouth.
Diagnosing Oral Gonorrhea
Oral gonorrhea is usually diagnosed with a throat swab that is meant to isolate the bacteria N. gonorrhea.
Testing for gonorrhea, along with other STDs is an important prevention step before having sex with a new partner. Other ways to avoid getting oral gonorrhea include using condoms, although they don't provide absolute protection.
Effective Oral Gonorrhea Treatment
Treatment mainly consists of administration of antibiotics, supported by symptomatic relieving measures. However, because resistance to most the antibiotics is becoming a problem, it is important not to self-medicate but rather seek medical advice. Some of the recommended antibiotics then were: Cefixime, Doxycycline, Azithromycin, and Ofloxacin. Currently, CDC recommends dual therapy with ceftriaxone + azithromycin.
Keep in mind that even though it is curable, it is always better to prevent the spread of oral gonorrhea. Safe sex and good oral hygiene can do much to lessen its chances of development. If some of these symptoms appear, one should consult a doctor and undergo gonorrhea testing without hesitation. Remember that neglected oral gonorrhea may lead to serious health consequences.
For Men & Women
Results in Minutes
No Lab Needed
Private & Discreet
