A healthcare provider will suspect chlamydia if a man has watery discharge from the penis or a burning sensation when urinating. Symptoms of rectal pain and rectal discharge frequently are symptoms of chlamydia in those who have anal sex.
A complete examination of the appropriate area is done to look for discharge and other infections. A cotton swab is often used to take a sample of any discharge present. If no discharge is seen, a cotton swab may be used to swab the inside of the urethra, rectum, or throat. The swab is then sent to the lab for testing. This can help determine whether there is an infection, and if so, which organisms are causing it.