Chlamydia is the most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States. It is caused by Chlamydia trachomatis, an organism that is transmitted through vaginal or anal sex. Symptoms generally appear one to three weeks after exposure to the bacteria, if they appear at all. In fact, many people do not even realize that they are carrying the disease, because chlamydia is sometimes asymptomatic in men and frequently asymptomatic in women. If left untreated, however, chlamydia can lead to chronic inflammation of the urethra and epididymis in men and pelvic inflammatory (PID) disease in women, both of which can cause sterility.

Chlamydia can also lead to secondary infections. For instance, if infected fluids come in contact with the eyes, they can cause eye infections. A pregnant woman can transmit chlamydia to her unborn child, causing the baby to develop chlamydial pneumonia or conjunctivitis. Chlamydia can also cause ectopic pregnancies and premature birth.)

Signs and Symptoms

Men may experience painful or frequent urination, discharge from the penis, or redness at the tip of the penis

Women may not experience any symptoms, or may have slight abdominal discomfort, vaginal discharge, or painful, frequent urination

Conventional Medical Treatment

A family physician, gynecologist (for women), or urologist (for men) can diagnose chlamydia with a secretions test. In women, secretions are taken from the cervix and tested for the presence of chlamydia trachomatis. Since chlamydia is often asymptomatic, women should have this test performed during annual gynecological exams. In men, semen or urethral secretions are tested for the organism. Chlamydia is easily treated with antibiotics, and symptoms usually disappear within two weeks. Both partners should be treated for the condition, regardless of who is infected.

Complementary and Alternative Treatments

Nutrition and Supplementation

Make the bulk of your diet fresh vegetables and fruits. Eat brown rice, whole grains, white fish, turkey, and raw seeds and nuts. Avoid junk foods and processed foods, and drink sugar-free juices and herbal teas.

The following daily supplements are recommended for treating chlamydia:

vitamin E (600 IU)

vitamin B complex (50 to 100 mg 3 times daily with meals)-necessary for proper functioning of the liver

vitamin C (1500 mg, 4 times daily)-use buffered form

zinc gluconate (50 mg)

copper (3 mg)-to balance with zinc

a prodophilus formula (as directed on label)-replaces friendly bacteria destroyed by antibiotics

Aromatherapy

Research suggests that the essential oil of red thyme, a gentle anti-infective, may be effective against chlamydia. Consult your doctor before self-treating.

Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture In conjunction with conventional medical treatment, acupuncture can be used to lessen the severity of chlamydia-related pain, fever, and urinary dysfunction and to bolster the immune system.

Acupressure Acupressure may be employed to help strengthen immunity, relieve pain, and improve the patient's mood by reducing stress and anxiety.

Chinese Herbal Therapy Garlic may be recomended as a general immunity-fortifying tonic while gentiana, angelica, bupleurum, and Coptis (also called mishmi bitter) may be prescribed to counteract specific symptoms and to keep the disease from compromising fertility and progressing to full-blown PID.