Infections in the throat and rectum cause few symptoms. Symptoms usually appear in 2 to 7 days following infection, but can take as long as 30 days. People with no symptoms risk developing complications and unknowingly spread the infection to others until properly treated. Past infection does not make a person immune. Gonorrhea is treated with penicillin or other antibiotics in pill form or by injection into the buttocks.
All strains are curable but the disease is becoming increasingly resistant to standard medications.
Men may suffer from swelling of the testicles and penis. Both sexes may suffer from arthritis, skin problems and other organ infections caused by spread of the disease within the body. Prevention can be accomplished if sexual relations are approached responsibly. Measures include limiting the number of sex partners and using a condom. Sex partners should be brought to the clinic or doctor for treatment as well.