Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases that occurs due to a bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It happens in both men and women but most frequently visualized in young women.

Chlamydia is a severely contagious condition and it is easily treatable if diagnosed in the initial stages. But if the symptoms are not understood on time, it can even cause permanent reproductive damage or infertility.

chlamydia causes and symptoms

There are certain factors that increase the chances of getting contracted with this infectious disease such as having multiple partners or being sexually active before the age of 25. Any past history of sexually transmitted infection or not using any kind of protection can also lead to chlamydia.

Chlamydia is very common mostly in the western countries. It is very easily transferred to the partner in case of unprotected sex. A person can also get infected through sexual devices.

Chlamydia also spreads by coming into contact with the partner’s genitals even if there is no penetration, infected semen or vaginal fluid of the partner or even if it goes into the eye.

Chlamydia can also get transferred to the unborn baby, if the mother has already contracted it. People having this bacterial infection have higher chances of getting infected with HIV, AIDS as the virus present in the body already weakens the immune system. In some cases, women having chlamydia have also risks of getting cervicitis and salpingitis, where complications in men include urethritis and epididymitis.

Symptoms

Chlamydia is mostly sneaky and spreads unnoticed inside an infected individual. Signs and symptoms usually occur 1 to 2 weeks after the person has been exposed to this infection. Some signs are so mild, they are often mistaken as something else. But since there are minute or no symptoms at all, there are higher chances of this infectious disease to unknowingly pass on to the sexual partners.

  • Painful intercourse
  • Bleeding after intercourse
  • Lower belly pain
  • Pain or burning while urination
  • Frequent urination
  • Swelling in and around the genitals
  • Abnormal vaginal discharge (may be yellowish and have a strong smell)
  • Pus or a watery/milky discharge from the penis
  • Bleeding between menstrual cycles and irregular periods
  • Pain, discharge and/or bleeding around the anus
  • Swollen or tender testicles

Diagnosis and Treatment

Once you notice the symptoms, it is advisable to get it prognosed by a doctor. Diagnosing this bacterial infection may include the patient's past medical history followed by a physical exam which helps them to check the presence of any discharge, sores, or unusual spots that may be related to a possible infection. The doctor may also run out some tests like urine test or swab test of the genitals for both male and female.

Much to the relief, since it is caused by a bacterium, it is easily treatable once diagnosed correctly. The doctor may prescribe for antibiotics. In severe cases, the patients might require hospitalization and a proper dose of intravenous antibiotics and pain medication.

Home remedies for this potent infection include the use of plants like goldenseal and echinacea. These plants, when added to the diet, helps to boost the body’s immune system and prevent contracting infectious diseases.

Chlamydia can also be avoided by using proper protections and by getting screened regularly or twice a month.