Chlamydia, a common sexually transmitted infection, often presents without obvious symptoms, making it challenging to detect. Approximately 75% of infected women and 50% of infected men show no signs of the disease. When symptoms do occur, they typically manifest one to three weeks after infection.
Manifestations in Women: In women, chlamydia primarily affects the cervix and urethra, leading to the following acute phase symptoms:
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Pain or discomfort during urination
- Abdominal and lower back pain
- Nausea and slight fever
- Pain during intercourse or bleeding afterward
- Bleeding between periods
Manifestations in Men: Men with acute chlamydia may experience the following symptoms:
- Clear or cloudy discharge from the penis
- Pain or discomfort during urination
- Burning and itching around the urethral opening
- Testicular pain and swelling
Complications of Chlamydia: Chlamydia can lead to various complications if left untreated, including:
- Urethritis (inflammation of the urethra)
- Prostatitis (inflammation of the prostate)
- Epididymitis (inflammation of the epididymis)
- Vesiculitis (inflammation of the seminal vesicles)
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women, affecting the cervix, endometrium, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and pelvic peritoneum
- Increased risk of miscarriage and premature detachment of the placenta in pregnant women
- Newborns born to infected mothers can develop eye and lung infections
Transmission and Statistics: Chlamydia can be transmitted through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected partner. It can also be spread via the use of sex toys with an infected partner or from a sick mother to her newborn during childbirth. Sexually active individuals are at risk, with a higher likelihood of infection among those with multiple sexual partners. Young women under 25 years of age are particularly susceptible, with about 75% of new cases observed in this age group.
Diagnosis and Treatment: Diagnosing chlamydia involves observing clinical symptoms, conducting smears from cervical scrapings and urinary canal samples, and performing PCR (polymerase chain reaction) tests. Treatment requires a comprehensive approach, including antibiotics that penetrate infected cells, immunomodulating therapy to enhance the immune response, enzyme therapy to aid in cell permeability, and local therapy targeting infected organs.
Prevention and Partner Notification: Preventing chlamydia involves safe sexual practices, regular screenings for sexually active individuals, and informing sexual partners if diagnosed with the infection. Repeated examinations are recommended four weeks after treatment to ensure successful eradication. Early detection and prompt treatment are crucial to preventing complications and further spread of the infection.
