NGU

Nongonococcal urethritis (NGU) is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis, which affects the urethra, the tube that carries urine from the bladder to outside the body. This condition most often affects men between the ages of 15 and 30, and is considered one of the most common STDs in the US. Women are less likely to be affected by this condition because their urethra is not as easily infected during sexual intercourse.
In addition to sexual transmission, NGU can also be contracted as a result of a urinary tract infection, urethral stricture or catheterization of the penis, among other causes. Pregnant women may pass this infection on to their child during birth, which may lead to infections within the eyes, ears or lungs. Fortunately, most cases of NGU can be successfully treated with no major complications and no long-term damage.

Symptoms

Symptoms of NGU often develop within one to five weeks after infection, and may include a clear discharge, itching or burning during urination. Women with NGU will likely not experience any symptoms, although some may experience burning or itching in or around the vagina.

Diagnosis

Your doctor at Family Care Torrance can diagnose NGU by eliminating the possibility of other STDs, such as gonorrhea and chlamydia, and by taking a sample of fluid from the penis. Many cases of NGU are caused by the same bacteria that causes chlamydia, and many patients with this condition are also infected with other STDs. If a patient tests negative for gonorrhea or chlamydia with relevant symptoms, a diagnosis of NGU will likely be made. A urine test may also be performed to detect signs of NGU.Being tested for other STDs, including HIV, is often recommended to detect any abnormalities as early as possible and prescribe proper treatment.

Complications

If left untreated, NGU may continue to spread through the body, beginning in the testicles and causing pain, swelling and sterility in some cases. This infection may also spread to other areas of the body and lead to severe illness. Women with untreated NGU may develop pelvic inflammatory disease or chronic pelvic pain, and may also be at an increased risk for miscarriage during pregnancy.

Treatment

Since it is caused by the same infection, NGU is most often treated using the same medication used to treat chlamydia, which may include tetracycline, doxycycline, azithromycin or other antibiotics. Most cases of NGU can be successfully cured through antibiotics. A urine test may be performed at the completion of treatment to ensure that the infection is fully cleared.
Patients and their partner should both be treated for NGU at the same time to ensure that re-infection does not occur. Sex should be avoided until treatment is completed, even if symptoms disappear before the end of treatment.

Prevention

Patients can prevent NGU and other STDs by practicing safe sex, which includes using a condom every time you have sex and maintaining open and honest communication with your partner about protection and any infections you may have. Regular testing can also help detect NGU and other infections in their earliest stages to ensure the most effective and plentiful treatment options.Your doctor at Family Care Torrance will help you develop a personalized treatment and prevention plan to help you and your partner continue to lead active and healthy lifestyles.