Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea is a common venereal disease. Prior to the development of effective antibacterial agents, it was a serious problem. Now it can usually be cured with one injection of penicillin. Every person, female as well as male, should read the section on gonorrhea. 

Even children are susceptible. Gonorrhea can be transmitted in ways other than sexual contact. If you understand the facts thoroughly, you will know how to prevent gonorrhea. The other venereal diseases are less common and less important are chancroid, lymphogranulomainguinale, and veneral warts. These are made evident in men by sores on the penis or enlarged lymph nodes in the groin. (Women, too, may contract these diseases.)

They respond to treatment while in early stages and no time should be lost in consulting your physician. Venereal diseases can be prevented. The simplest and most effective prophylactic is the condom, or rubber sheath. Some men think this diminishes the pleasure of intercourse. But anyone who has seen really severe cases of venereal disease comes away convinced that if a man must expose himself to the dangers of VD, he can well afford to reduce slightly the physical pleasure in return for protection and freedom from worry. The testicles are not often affected by disease. 

They are not, however, immune to involvement and may be affected by mumps, undulant fever, or gonorrhea. The cord that supports them may be invaded by an extension of a hernia, or there may be enlarged veins. The epididymis may become diseased. If you notice a swelling, lump, or congestion of the scrotum or testicles, be sure to see your physician as soon as possible.

 It may be all indication of early cancer Or other potentially serious problem, curable, if treated early. 

The skin in and around the scrotum may be infected by ringworm fungus causing so-called jockstrap itch. Keeping the area clean and dry-with a simple drying powder such as used for babies-will help prevent such infections. The prostate gland can be affected by cancer and by infections. In men of about 50 and older, the prostate often enlarges for reasons that are still not fully understood. This is called benign hypertrophy of the prostate gland.