Chlamydia Trachomatis

Chlamydia Trachomatis: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Chlamydia trachomatis, also known as Chlamydia, is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). It is caused by a bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis, which can infect reproductive organs including the cervix, urethra, rectum and throat. It is spread through sexual contact and can be found in both men and women of all ages.

Although there are usually no outward symptoms in those who are infected, noticeable symptoms can develop if the bacteria are left untreated. These may include burning during urination, an increased urge to urinate and unusual discharge from the genital area. Infection of the rectum can cause rectal pain, discharge and bleeding. If left untreated, the infection can spread to the uterus, fallopian tubes, bladder, liver and/or lungs bringing about more serious symptoms including fever, nausea and abdominal pain.

Diagnosis

In order to diagnose Chlamydia, your physician will perform a physical examination and take a medical history. Stool and urine samples may also be taken for laboratory analysis. If it is suspected that the infection has spread to the uterus, fallopian tubes, bladder, liver or lungs, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans may be conducted.

Treatment

The most commonly prescribed medication for treating Chlamydia is a combination of antibiotics such as doxycycline, azithromycin and erythromycin. Treatment should be completed for the entire course as prescribed byyour physician in order to ensure that the infection is completely eliminated. In addition to medication, abstinence from all sexual activity and any contact with an infected person should be observed until treatment is completed.

Prevention

The best way to prevent Chlamydia is to practice safe sex. Use a condom in any sexual encounter, since Chlamydia can even be transmitted through oral sex or skin-to-skin contact. Regular STD testing is important for anyone who is sexually active. If you’re pregnant, An important step in the prevention of Chlamydia trachomatis is avoiding contact with anyone who is infected. It can also be spread from an infected mother to her infant during childbirth.

Complications

If left untreated, Chlamydia can lead to a wide range of complications like:

• Infertility in women
• Ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that occurs outside the uterus)
• In vitro fertilization failures
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Eye infections (conjunctivitis)
• Liver infections
• Respiratory infections
• Vaginal infections