CBSHealthWatch- Library - Arthritis Caused By Gonorrhea

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Arthritis Caused By Gonorrhea

Q: My doctor diagnosed me with gonorrhea. Is it true that gonorrhea can cause

arthritis?

A: Gonorrhea, a sexually-transmitted bacterial infection, can cause arthritis.

It usually has many other symptoms. The number of cases is on the rise in the

United States. Gonorrhea is commonly known as the " clap " or " drips. " A bacterium

called Neisseria gonorrhoeae causes gonorrhea. Patients acquire gonorrhea

through contact with infected secretions. Unprotected sexual intercourse is the

most common way of acquiring gonorrhea. But oral and anal sex are other routes

of transmission.

In males, gonorrhea typically causes burning on urination and a milky discharge

from the penis. Untreated, the pain can intensify and also cause pain in the

scrotum. Over time, untreated infections can lead to lesions (sores) within the

urethra. In females, gonorrhea can also cause burning on urination, increased

urinary frequency, and a vaginal discharge. Symptoms may be most noticeable

during the menstrual period. Untreated infections can lead to a generalized

abdominal infection. This condition is called pelvic inflammatory disease. Even

just one bout of gonorrhea infection can scar the fallopian tubes, resulting in

infertility. Infection of the rectum in either male or females can lead to

rectal symptoms and rectal discharge. Infection of the throat from unprotected

oral sex can lead to a sore throat and pus on the tonsils.

Occasionally, infection with gonorrhea can cause bacteria to spread to other

parts of the body by way of the bloodstream. When this occurs, patients can have

fevers, rash, and joint pains, depending on the location of the bacteria.

Arthritis is a common complication of gonorrhea that has spread this way. The

most commonly affected joints include the knees, ankles, and wrists.

Occasionally, the bacteria can be found by removing fluid from the affected

joints with a needle.

Gonorrhea can be prevented by education, sexual abstinence, or the proper use of

a condom. Fortunately, we do have antibiotics that can destroy the bacteria in

your body and treat the disease. Unfortunately, treatment of the infection may

not prevent the complications such as infertility. To prevent future infections

with gonorrhea or other sexually transmitted disease, please remember to

practice safe sex.

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