Dealing with Chlamydia Infection

Just like Aids, Chlamydia infection too is a silent killer and though it may not result in fatalities as the former is reputed for, if left untreated, Chlamydia too can result in some serious health issues which may spring up in the short span or over a period of many years.

Causes of Chlamydia infection and its consequences

Chlamydia infection is a common sexually transmitted infection which has been known to affect more than 1 million people in the US alone. There are several others across the globe who fall victim to it but few come to know about it until the disease strikes them. The ailment is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis which is a bacteria found living inside human cells. The bug can be transmitted from human to human during sex (vaginal, anal or oral) or can be passed down from mother to child during childbirth.

The maladies from Chlamydia infection can vary depending on the part it infects. If it affects the cervicitis in women, it can cause infections in the uterus, fallopian tubes or ovaries resulting in reproductive problems. In men, it can lead to unusual discharge from the penis or swollen or sore testicles and it is also known to be one of the major causes for blindness. There have also been cases where the infection has led to premature birth and sicknesses such as pneumonia.
Treatment for Chlamydia

There is good news on this front as Chlamydia is an infection which can be 100 percent cured with antibiotics, once it is detected. Azithromycin (also known as zithromax) is a drug that can be taken either in the form of tablets or via injections and is commonly recommended by doctors. It works by preventing any proteins or nutrients from reaching the Chlamydia and without the proteins, the bacteria cannot replicate or multiply, thereby dying of their own accord or are finished off by the body’s immune system. There are also others such as Doxycycline, Tetracycline and Erythromycin which can be used for the Chlamydia treatment though it is Azithromycin which is widely used.

Prevention of Chlamydia

The safest way to prevent Chlamydia infection is to abstain from having multiple sexual partners. As far as possible, use protection while having sex because it can act as a barrier and prevent transmission of sexual infections. Don’t delay consulting a doctor if you notice symptoms such as swollen genital parts, burning sensation while urinating or bleeding during menstrual cycles. Getting prompt can go a long way in limiting the damage caused by the disease.