The treatment for gonorrhoea is usually a single dose of antibiotics such as penicillin, with a check-up afterwards to make sure the infection has cleared. If gonorrhoea is not diagnosed and treated, serious complications can develop. Both sexes could develop gonococcal septicaernia, an infection of the bloodstream with skin rashes and arthritis. In serious cases, sterility can result in both sexes. Pregnant women with gonorrhoea may pass it on to their babies, who can be born with gonococcal opthalmia, an acute inflammation of the eyes.
Complications are, however, relatively rare nowadays.
Non-specific urethritis or NSU can be identified by lumps, soreness or itching around the genitals, anus or mouth. There may also be a discharge from the vagina or penis. The treatment is usually a two-week course of antibiotics for anyone who has had contact with an infected person. During treatment, patients are asked to give up alcohol, as this can bring about a recurrence of the symptoms. Complications can occur, and these are similar to those for gonorrhoea, but fortunately early diagnosis and treatment can prevent these.