• When to call the doctor
  • Call your doctor if you suspect gonorrheal infection and any of the following signs or symptoms are present:
    • Fever
    • Abdominal pain
    • Discharge from the penis or vagina
    • Pain with urination
    • Arthritis, joint pain
    • Appearance of a rash with dark centers
    • Lethargy
    • Rectal pain  or discharge
    • Pharyngitis, sore throat
    • Sexual contact with an infected person
• When to go to the hospital
  • Gonorrhea can develop into more serious medical conditions if not treated. The infection may spread through the bloodstream and affect mucous membranes throughout the body. Symptoms of more serious disease can include joint pain andrash. Complications of gonorrhea can also include meningitis (inflammation of the brain) or endocarditis (an infection of the heart).
  • If you have any of the following serious symptoms, you need to go to a hospital's emergency department immediately for treatment with antibiotics (given through an IV).
    • Women: Pelvic inflammatory disease is a serious medical condition that can lead to infertility. Fever, abdominal pain, and vaginal discharge can be symptoms of this disease.
    • Men: Fever, discharge from the penis, and painful urination may signal an infection, especially involving inflammation of the testicles.

Gonorrhea can develop into more serious medical conditions if not treated. You must see a doctor for treatment.

• Use latex condoms when having sexual intercourse.
• Avoid sexual contact with high-risk partners.
• Treat infected sexual partners or have them tested before having sexual relations.
• Other sexually transmitted disease include syphilis, chlamydia, and HIV/AIDS.

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