Chlamydia: The "Silent" Infection

Symptoms of Chlamydia in Men

When symptoms do occur in men, they typically appear 1 to 3 weeks after exposure. They can include:

• Pain or a burning sensation during urination.
• A white, cloudy, or watery discharge from the tip of the penis.
• Pain and swelling in one or both testicles (less common).
• Rectal pain, discharge, or bleeding (if the infection is in the rectum).

Because these symptoms can be mild and intermittent, they are often ignored. It is crucial to get tested if you have any of these signs or if a partner has tested positive.

Complications of Untreated Chlamydia

If left untreated, chlamydia can cause serious health problems. In men, it can spread to the testicles and epididymis (the tube that carries sperm), causing a painful condition called epididymitis, which in rare cases can lead to infertility.

Testing and Diagnosis

Testing for chlamydia is simple and painless. The most common methods are:

• Urine Test: You simply provide a urine sample, which is then tested for the bacteria.
• Swab Test: A small swab may be taken from the urethra (the opening of the penis) or the rectum, depending on your sexual practices.

Effective Treatment

The good news is that chlamydia is easily cured with a short course of antibiotics. The most common treatments are a single dose of azithromycin or a one-week course of doxycycline.

It is vital that you:

• Take all of your medication as prescribed, even if symptoms disappear.
• Abstain from sexual activity for 7 days after completing treatment to avoid re-infecting yourself or spreading it to a partner.
• Ensure your recent sexual partners are also tested and treated to prevent reinfection and further spread.