Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is the most commonly reported bacterial STI in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics, typically azithromycin or doxycycline. These medications are highly effective, but like all medications, they can cause side effects in some people.
In this article, we will discuss the common side effects of chlamydia treatment.
1. Nausea and Vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of chlamydia treatment. These symptoms may occur shortly after taking the medication and can last for several hours.
If you experience nausea and vomiting, try taking the medication with food or an antacid. If the symptoms persist, contact your healthcare provider.
2. Diarrhea
Diarrhea is another common side effect of chlamydia treatment. This can be caused by the antibiotics killing off the good bacteria in your gut along with the bad bacteria causing the infection.
If you experience diarrhea, it’s important to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids. If the symptoms persist or become severe, contact your healthcare provider.
3. Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain is another possible side effect of chlamydia treatment. This can be caused by the antibiotics irritating the lining of your stomach and intestines.
If you experience abdominal pain, try taking the medication with food or an antacid. If the symptoms persist or become severe, contact your healthcare provider.
4. Allergic Reactions
Although rare, some people may have an allergic reaction to the antibiotics used to treat chlamydia. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include:.
- Hives
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
5. Yeast Infections
Antibiotics can disrupt the balance of bacteria in your vagina, making it easier for yeast to grow. This can result in a yeast infection, which may cause symptoms such as:.
- Itching or burning in the vagina
- Soreness or irritation in the vagina
- Pain during sex
- Thick, white, odorless discharge
If you experience these symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. They may prescribe medication to treat the yeast infection.
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6. Photosensitivity
Some antibiotics used to treat chlamydia can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. This can cause a rash or sunburn when you are exposed to the sun.
If you experience photosensitivity, be sure to wear protective clothing and use sunscreen when you go outside.
7. Dizziness
Some people may experience dizziness while taking antibiotics to treat chlamydia. This can be caused by a drop in blood pressure or dehydration.
If you experience dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until the symptoms have resolved.
8. Headache
Headache is a common side effect of many medications, including antibiotics. If you experience a headache while taking antibiotics to treat chlamydia, try taking an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
If the headache persists or becomes severe, contact your healthcare provider.
9. Liver Damage
In rare cases, antibiotics used to treat chlamydia can cause liver damage. Symptoms of liver damage may include:.
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes
- Dark urine
- Pale stools
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Nausea or vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Fatigue or weakness
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
10. Antibiotic Resistance
Lastly, overuse and misuse of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, which occurs when bacteria develop the ability to resist the drugs used to treat them.
To help prevent antibiotic resistance, it’s important to only take antibiotics when they are prescribed by a healthcare provider and to take them exactly as directed.
Conclusion
Chlamydia can be effectively treated with antibiotics, but like all medications, they can cause side effects in some people. If you experience any of the side effects discussed in this article, contact your healthcare provider.
It’s important to take antibiotics only as directed to prevent antibiotic resistance.
