The Impact of Gonorrhea on Men's Health
Gonorrhea, a common sexually transmitted infection, can have severe consequences on male health. One of the significant complications of gonorrhea is prostatitis, which appears in both acute and chronic forms.
Acute Gonococcal Prostatitis
Acute prostatitis typically arises as a complication of gonococcal urethritis, usually occurring during the third week after infection. Men may experience symptoms such as frequent urination, pain during urination, and intensified discomfort following urination. Additionally, dull pain can radiate to the perineum and near the anus, often exacerbating during bowel movements. Upon rectal examination, the prostate may appear swollen, irregular, and tender, with potential purulent discharge from the urethra.
Chronic Gonococcal Prostatitis
When acute prostatitis is not completely treated, it can evolve into chronic prostatitis. Individuals may report a sensation of heaviness in the perineum, persistent tenderness, and frequent urges to urinate, often accompanied by lower back pain. A rectal examination might reveal an enlarged prostate with multiple hard nodules, tenderness upon palpation, and mucus discharge upon massage. Laboratory analyses often indicate the presence of white blood cells.
Gonococcal Epididymitis
Gonococcal epididymitis results from the spread of gonococci through the ejaculatory duct to the epididymis, making it one of the most common complications of acute gonococcal urethritis. The condition is characterized by an enlarged epididymis, which may present as hard nodules on physical examination. Patients frequently experience radiating pain, and during the acute phase, body temperature may rise to approximately 39 degrees Celsius.
Gonococcal Seminal Vesiculitis
This condition arises when the bacteria invade via the ejaculatory duct, vas deferens, or lymphatic pathway. Symptoms include a feeling of heaviness in the perineum, increasing discomfort during urination and bowel movements, and pain radiating towards the vas deferens and testicles, while urine typically appears clear.
Gonococcal Balanoposthitis
Caused by the irritation from purulent discharge, gonococcal balanoposthitis leads to initial symptoms like local burning sensations, itching, and mild pain. This condition might lead to swelling of the foreskin and ulceration of the inner surface. Patients may notice a reddened glans and moderate erosion, with the foreskin becoming significantly swollen, making it impossible to retract and potentially resulting in inflammatory phimosis.
Gonococcal Urethritis of the Accessory Glands
Urethral glands located near the external urethral orifice, subpreputial area, or along the dorsal midline of the penis are susceptible to infection in gonorrhea patients. It is critical to note that any inflammation in these glands can be significant as they might contain the bacteria and serve as sources of gonorrhea transmission.
Gonococcal Urethral Stricture
Chronic gonorrhea, lasting several months or years, can lead to the development of urethral stricture. Initially, patients may be asymptomatic, gradually experiencing difficulty urinating, frequent urination, and weak urinary streams. If left untreated, progressive urethral stricture can result in severe consequences, sometimes posing a life-threatening situation.
Conclusion
Overall, gonorrhea poses a substantial risk to men's health, leading to various serious complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to mitigating these risks and ensuring optimal health outcomes.