Introduction:
The disease you are referring to is gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted infection that affects the urinary tract. It is characterized by inflammation, pain, and the formation of pustules in the urethra. Symptoms typically appear within 24 hours to five days after exposure and may sometimes manifest later.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of the disease include initial itching at the tip of the genitalia, increased pain during urination, and as the infection progresses, the pain becomes unbearable. The opening of the urethra becomes red, swollen, and moist, and there is tenderness, swelling, and pain in the testicles, foreskin, and the perianal area. After a week, there is a significant increase in the discharge, which becomes thick, white, and sometimes tinged with blood. Urination becomes extremely painful, and the urethra becomes constricted, leading to difficult and dribbling urination. Fever may also accompany the infection.
Causes of the Disease:
Gonorrhea is primarily transmitted through sexual contact with an infected partner. Individuals with gonorrhea or those with infections in their genital organs can spread the disease, even if they haven’t experienced the symptoms yet. Engaging in sexual intercourse with such individuals can lead to the transmission of the infection. In some cases, men can also contract the disease when having intercourse with a woman who has gonorrhea, especially if she is menstruating or has leucorrhea (a vaginal discharge condition).
Other factors contributing to the infection include excessive alcohol consumption, exposure to cold or damp conditions, general weakness, a phlegmatic temperament, gout, kidney stones, etc. In some cases, inflammation of the urinary tract can occur due to the excessive use of alcohol or exposure to cold air, leading to the formation of pustules.
Stages of the Disease:
1. First Stage or Initial Stage:
– Lasts for 24 hours to two days.
– Initial itching at the tip of the genitalia.
– Thin, transparent, or milk-like discharge.
2. Second Stage:
– Redness and swelling of the genitalia.
– Thick, white, yellow, or greenish discharge.
– Increased pain and burning during urination.
– Discomfort and pain in the genital area, including the bladder, foreskin, and prostate gland.
3. Third Stage:
– Increased severity of symptoms.
– Pain and burning during urination.
– Pus in the urine.
– Inflammation of the bladder, urethra, and prostate gland.
4. Fourth Stage or Ulcer:
– Scarce discharge, often transparent or milky.
– Scar formation on clothing.
– No significant pain or discomfort.
– The risk of transmission remains.
Prognosis:
The prognosis of gonorrhea is challenging to predict as it varies from person to person. Some individuals may recover quickly with minimal complications, while others may experience prolonged symptoms and increased complexity. Gonorrhea can lead to serious complications if left untreated, affecting the reproductive organs and increasing the risk of transmission to sexual partners.
It is crucial to seek medical attention promptly for diagnosis and appropriate treatment to prevent the spread of the infection and mitigate potential complications. Practicing safe sex and avoiding contact with infected individuals are essential preventive measures.