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How do the symptoms of gonorrhea and genital herpes differ in males

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Gonorrhea and genital herpes are both sexually transmitted infections (STIs), but they have different causes and symptoms. Here's how the symptoms differ in males:

Gonorrhea Symptoms:

Gonorrhea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae and can affect the urethra, throat, and rectum. Symptoms usually appear within 1 to 14 days after exposure, but some individuals may be asymptomatic. Common symptoms in males include:

  1. Urethral Discharge: A thick, yellow, or green pus-like discharge from the penis.
  2. Burning Sensation: Pain or a burning sensation during urination.
  3. Swollen Testicles: Inflammation or swelling of the testicles.
  4. Pain in the Throat: If the throat is infected, there may be a sore throat (pharyngitis).
  5. Rectal Symptoms: If the rectum is infected, it can lead to pain, discharge, or bleeding.

Genital Herpes Symptoms:

Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), most commonly HSV type 2. Symptoms can appear 2 to 12 days after exposure and may include:

  1. Blisters or Sores: Painful blisters or sores that develop on the genitals, anus, or surrounding areas. These eventually rupture, crust over, and heal.
  2. Itching or Tingling: A sensation of itching or tingling in the genital area before the blisters appear.
  3. Pain during Urination: If sores are present near the urethra, urination can be painful.
  4. Flu-like Symptoms: Fever, swollen lymph nodes, and body aches can accompany the initial outbreak.
  5. Recurrent Outbreaks: After the initial infection, HSV can remain dormant and reactivate, leading to recurrent outbreaks of sores.

Key Differences:

  • Discharge vs. Sores: Gonorrhea typically presents with urethral discharge, while genital herpes presents with blisters or sores.
  • Onset: Gonorrhea symptoms usually occur more quickly after infection than herpes symptoms.
  • Recurring Symptoms: Genital herpes often leads to recurrent outbreaks, while gonorrhea symptoms generally do not recur unless reinfected.

It's important for individuals experiencing symptoms to seek medical evaluation and testing to obtain a proper diagnosis and treatment.

Shorter answer please

Sure! Here’s a concise comparison:

Gonorrhea Symptoms in Males:

  • Urethral Discharge: Thick yellow or green pus.
  • Burning Sensation: Pain during urination.
  • Swollen Testicles: Inflammation or pain.
  • Potential Throat Pain: If throat is infected.

Genital Herpes Symptoms in Males:

  • Blisters/Sores: Painful blisters on genitals or surrounding areas.
  • Itching/Tingling: Sensation before blisters appear.
  • Pain during Urination: If sores are near the urethra.
  • Flu-like Symptoms: Fever and swollen lymph nodes during initial outbreak.

Key Differences:

  • Gonorrhea: Presents with discharge; no recurrent sores.
  • Herpes: Causes blisters; can recur with outbreaks.

Seek medical advice for diagnosis and treatment if symptoms appear.