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Chlamydia
Up one levelChlamydia
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted diseases. In 2001, more than 500 people in Windsor and Essex County were infected with chlamydia trachomatis. The high incidence of chlamydia may be due to the fact that over half of those who have contracted the infection do not have any signs or symptoms. Some symptoms to look for in women are: - changes in vaginal discharge - burning feeling when urinating - pain in the lower abdomen - pain during sex or bleeding after intercourse - bleeding between periodsSome symptoms in males are: - watery or milky discharge from the penis - burning feeling inside the penis - burning feeling when urinating - pain or swelling in the testiclesIf left untreated in the female, chlamydia can lead to infertility, ectopic pregnancy or persistent pelvic pain. An infection during pregnancy can result in a preterm delivery and eye and lung infections in the infant. In males, if untreated, chlamydia may cause proctitis, Reiter's Syndrome and on rare occasions infertility. Screening for chlamydia is recommended for all sexually active young girls. It is also recommended when entering in a new sexual relationship. Condoms will help prevent the spread of chlamydia. Chlamydia is treated with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. Your partner will need to be treated as well. A repeat test is recommended 4 weeks after treatment to make sure the antibiotic was effective. Testing for chlamydia is done at the Windsor Essex County Health Unit in Windsor, Leamington, and Essex. For more information or to book an appointment or speak with a Public Health Nurse call (519)258-2146 ext. 1200/1201. Results take approximately 7-10 days. Download: Sexual Health Clinic Pamphlet References: Health Canada - Minister of Public Works & Government Services Canada Canadian STD Guidelines - Health Canada Control of Communicable Diseases Manual, 17th edition.
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis also known as “pink eye” is an inflammation of the the tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid (conjunctiva). Depending on the type of pink eye, it is usually easily spread from person to person. For this reason, children with conjunctivitis should be kept away from school for a few days to prevent spreading the infection to others. It is one of the most common and treatable eye infections in children and adults. Here are some tips for dealing with conjunctivitis: - If you’re around someone with conjunctivitis avoid touching any items they have handled. Don’t share towels, pillowcases, soap, and makeup with that person. - Throw out any eye makeup or cosmetics and start with a new supply. - Make sure that your kids know how to blow their noses carefully and to cover their nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing. - Your child should not touch the infected eye and then touch the other eye without washing his or her hands. - Wash your own hands thoroughly after touching your child's eyes. Causes Conjunctivitis can be caused by a virus, bacteria, irritating substances (shampoos, dirt, smoke and especially pool chlorine), allergens (substances that cause allergies) or sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Symptoms - Redness in the white of the eye or inner eyelid - Increased amount of tears - Thick yellow discharge that crusts over the eyelashes, especially after sleep (with conjunctivitis caused by bacteria) - Other discharge from your eye (green or white) - Itchy eyes (especially with conjunctivitis caused by allergies) - Burning eyes (especially with conjunctivitis caused by chemicals and irritants) - Blurred vision - Increased sensitivity to light Treatment Treatment of conjunctivitis depends on the specific cause: Bacteria: Conjunctivitis caused by bacteria is treated with antibiotics which can be given as eye drops, ointments or pills. A prescription for antibiotics must be taken in its entirety even if symptoms go away. Virus: Antibiotics are not effective against conjunctivitis that is caused by a virus. It must be allowed to run its course, which normally takes up to a week. You may be able to ease symptoms by applying a cold compress to closed eyes. Irritating substance: To treat this type of conjunctivitis, use warm water to wash the irritating substance from the eye for five minutes. You should also avoid further exposure to irritating substances. Your eyes should begin to improve within four hours after washing away the substance, otherwise call your doctor. Allergies: Allergy-associated conjunctivitis may disappear completely when the allergy is either treated with antihistamines or the allergen is removed. Relieve symptoms temporarily by applying a cold compress to closed eyes. Ophthalmia Neonatorum and STDs: The same bacteria that causes the sexually transmitted diseases, chlamydia and gonorrhea, can also infect the conjunctiva. This is most commonly spread during birth as the infant passes through the birth canal of an infected mother. Newborns are usually given eye drops immediately after birth to treat any possible infection. Conjunctivitis can also be spread through hand contact when rubbing the eyes or touching contact lenses after touching infected genitals. This is usually treated with antibiotics. Washing hands thoroughly can help prevent the spread of this type of conjunctivitis. Adapted from www.healthyontario.com/Conditions Updated August 2, 2007
Dare to Ask Your Partner
Before starting a sexual relationship, ask your partner the following information
Dare to Ask Your Partner
Before starting a sexual relationship, ask your partner the following information
Director of Health Protection Board Report
TO THE CHAIRPERSON AND MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF THE WINDSOR-ESSEX COUNTY HEALTH UNIT 2007 April 19.
Director of Health Protection Board Report
TO THE CHAIRPERSON AND MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF THE WINDSOR-ESSEX COUNTY HEALTH UNIT 2007 May 17.
Director of Health Protection Board Report
TO THE CHAIRPERSON AND MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF THE WINDSOR-ESSEX COUNTY HEALTH UNIT 2006 November 16
Director of Health Protection Board Report
TO THE CHAIRPERSON AND MEMBERS OF THE BOARD OF THE WINDSOR-ESSEX COUNTY HEALTH UNIT 2006 December 21.