| In
order to prevent contracting a sexually transmitted disease, annual
physical check-up is recommended; particularly for sexually active
adults 20 and over. Moreover, annual screenings are recommended
for older women with certain risk factors, multiple sex partners
or a new sexual companion. The
long term effects of Chlamydia are unusual in the male gender.
In certain cases, the infection may spread to the epididymis
(the tube that transports sperm from the testis). In a few cases
fever coupled with pain have been reported; however, there are
not many cited cased of sterility.
Other infrequent
cases of genital Chlamydia infections may trigger arthritis
followed by an inflammation of the urethra and eye and skin
lesions.
In newborn
babies, Chlamydia is one of the major causes of early infant
pneumonia and pink eye (conjunctivitis).
Laboratory
tests may be conducted to diagnose chlamydia. The tests may
analyze urine, a specimen collected from the cervix or penis.
The treatment
of Chlamydia is curable or treatable with antibiotics. The most
prevalently prescribed medications include a single dose of
azithromycin or weekly usage of doxycycline.
Patients
diagnosed with HIV should be administered the same treatment
as individuals who do not have HIV.
Until the
Chlamydia infection is cleared entirely, individuals afflicted
with the STD should not engage in sexual intercourse.
Multiple
Chlamydia infections may render a women susceptible to permanently
damaging their reproductive system or even infertility.
Between
three to four months preceding chlamydia infection, a reevaluation
is recommended to ensure that they have not been re-infected
by an untreated sex partner.
Abstinence
along with latex condoms are the best ways to avoid contracting
Chlamydia and other sexually transmitted diseases.
To learn
more about sexually transmitted diseases such as Chlamydia visit
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) at www.cdc.gov/std
|
