This is an inflammation of the urethra which is not caused by gonorrheal infection. Its incubation period is between 2-7 days. This means that the victim begins to see symptoms of this disease between 2-7days after having sexual intercourse with the person carrying the disease. It is the commonest STD in our environment. There are many causes of Non- Gonococcal urethritis. The causes include bacteria, viruses, parasites and mechanical injury (e.g. from a urine catheter) or by an irritating chemical (e.g. antiseptics or some spermicides).
HOW TO KNOW WHEN YOU HAVE THE DISEASE (GENERAL)
- Pain or a burning sensation upon urination (dysuria).
- White/cloudy discharge.
- There may be itching in the palms and feet.
- Feeling that one needs to pass urine frequently.
MALE
- Discharge from the penis
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Itching in the palms and feet
- Itching, irritation or tenderness and
- Underwear stain.
FEMALE
- Discharge or pain when urinating
- Burning or pain when urinating
- Anal or oral infections
- Itching of the palms and feet
- Abdominal pain or abnormal vaginal bleeding
However, men are frequently, and women are occasionally asymptomatic.
OTHER MODES OF CONTRACTING THE DISEASE
In addition to transmission during sexual intercourse, this disease can also be contracted by sharing the same towel and toiletries with someone having the disease. But transmission through these means is very uncommon.
DIAGNOSIS
Because the definition of having NGU means that you have an inflammation of the urethra not caused by gonorrhea, the first step of diagnosis is to rule out these other causes. These days, this can be done with a simple urine test called NAAT that is very effective in detecting NGU
TREATMENT
Antibiotics are used to treat NGU. Some are single doses, and others require taking pills for seven or fourteen days.
Oral antibiotic regimens
- Metronidazole 2 g orally in a single dose OR Tinidazole 2 g orally in a single dose PLUS Azithromycin 1 g orally in a single dose (if not used for initial treatment)
- Ofloxacin 400mg twice daily for 14 days
- Metronidazole 400mg twice daily 14 days Or Doxycycline 100mg twice daily for 14 days
- Metronidazole 400mg twice daily for 14 days
- Ceftriaxone 1g intramuscular stat.
Single dose treatment for N gonorrhoea:-
- Amoxyl 3g orally with 1g probenicid CW+E
- In pregnancy, erythromycin 500mg twice daily for 14 days should be used as an alternative to doxycyline.
If a long acting preparation is not available four times daily dosing is required
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