Gonorrhea
Gonorrhea is a sexually-transmitted disease caused by the bacteria, Neisseria gonorrhea.
It starts out as an infection of the genito-urinary tract but may spread to other systems.
Although few infected individuals have no symptoms (especially noted in women), the most common symptoms experienced are burning sensation during urination, unusual sore or rash and yellowish, pus-like discharge noted in the underwear.
Transmission is through unprotected sexual intercourse with an infected person.
It can also be transmitted from the mother to baby during normal spontaneous delivery, when the baby passes thru the birth canal.
Infection with N. gonorrhea causes urethritis (inflammation of the urethra) for both sexes; epididymitis for men; and vaginitis or cervicitis for women.
It is important to note that vaginitis or cervicitis can lead to a more severe infection called pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), as the bacteria spreads in an ascending fashion.
This is a severe complication of gonorrhea and involves the female reproductive organs.
PID is one of the most important causes of infertility.
In men, epididymitis may affect the testicles and result in infertility too.
Another complication of gonorrhea is septic arthritis, or the infection and inflammation of big joints that can cause disability.
For babies who get the infection from their mother, this can result in blindness and sepsis, a life-threatening infection in the blood.
In diagnosing gonorrhea, a doctor or nurse obtains sample (blood, urine or swabs) for testing.
Swabs may be taken from the cervix, urethra, rectum or throat and sent to the lab for analysis.
Gram stain is used to directly visualize the bacteria under a microscope.
Important in treating gonorrhea is the utilization of appropriate antibiotics. There is no substitute for this.
Since there are many serious complications arising from gonorrhea, it is best to seek medical consult once this disease is suspected.
However, there are some home remedies and natural cures used for relieving symptoms of gonorrhea.
Natural Cures for Gonorrhea:
Sour Sop:
The sour sop or guyabano fruit which belongs to the family of Annonaceae, can be juiced and taken in orally as a herbal home remedy and natural cure for urethritis.
It naturally contains high amounts of Vitamins C, B1 and B2, potassium and dietary fiber.
Mangosteen:
Considered to be a natural cure for gonorrhea, Mangosteen has antibacterial properties such that a decoction of its rind (skin) can be used to treat gonorrhea and to get rid of its symptoms.
Nevertheless, this is not to take the place of the antibiotic medications prescribed by your physician.
These are just some natural cures and home remedies that one can consume which will support in the treatment of gonorrhea.
Of course, prevention is always better than cure. It is important to be mindful of your sexual activities.
Safe sex, with the use of latex condoms can greatly reduce chances of transmission but does not totally eliminate the risk.
Monogamous relationship with a person free of this infection is still your best bet in avoiding gonorrhea and other sexually transmitted diseases. The same applies to pregnant women.
