Understanding Chlamydia: Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment Options

Chlamydia is one of the most common STDs that infect almost 3 million people in the U.S. each year. It is most common among individuals aged 14 to 24 years old. Chlamydia is caused by a type of bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis. It is treatable and people who have the infection can remain healthy as long as they undergo treatment and practice safe sex.

Symptoms

Most people with chlamydia exhibit no symptoms at all. If they do develop, symptoms typically occur a few weeks after infection. Among women, symptoms can include vaginal discharge or a burning sensation during urination. Abnormal discharge and a burning sensation during urination may also occur in men who have this disease. Pain and inflammation of the testicles may also be present.

How is Chlamydia Spread?

The manner of infection for chlamydia is through direct contact with bodily fluids such as semen, pre-ejaculate, and vaginal fluid during sexual intercourse with a person who is infected. The infection can then infect the male and female genitalia, anus, urethra, throat, and eyes. Chlamydia can be spread through vaginal, oral, and anal sex.

In rare cases, the infection can also be spread by touching the eyes of an infected person. Infection through eye fluids may also occur through direct contact with contaminated towels. Interestingly, flies can spread the infection. Mothers who have chlamydia can also pass on the infection to their child during birth.

Chlamydia cannot be spread through indirect or casual contact, such as through holding hands, kissing, hugging, sneezing, or coughing. The bacteria do not survive long enough outside the body, so it is not likely that anyone could become infected through contact with toilet seats. It is also not likely that it can be spread through sharing of food and drinks.

How is Chlamydia Treated?

Many types of STDs respond well to appropriate and timely treatment. Chlamydia responds well to antibiotics such as doxycycline or azithromycin. Either azithromycin or erythromycin may be prescribed for pregnant mothers or babies who have the disease.

Treatment of chlamydia should also include the sexual partner/s or the infected person. Typically, patients are advised to refrain from engaging in sexual activity for at least a week until they are free from symptoms. Additionally, testing for other types of STDs such as syphilis, gonorrhea, and HIV may also be recommended. Once the treatment is completed, people are often asked to undergo testing after 3 months.

How Can Chlamydia Be Prevented?

Using condoms, abstaining from sex, and avoiding sexual contact with infected individuals can help prevent the spread of STDs, including chlamydia. Screening can also help in proper diagnosis especially among individuals who are sexually active or at a higher risk of infection.

What Happens If Chlamydia is Left Untreated?

In general, STDs do not clear up on their own and should be treated immediately to prevent complications and re-infection. If not treated, it could lead to serious health problems later, such as pelvic inflammatory disease among women, ectopic pregnancy, and infertility. If infection affects the eyes, it could lead to trachoma, a condition that causes blindness.