Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It progresses through several stages, each with its own set of symptoms. Here are the signs and symptoms associated with each stage of syphilis:
Primary stage:
Small, painless sores or ulcers called chancres appear at the site of infection (e.g., genitals, anus, mouth).
The sores typically last 3-6 weeks and heal on their own, even without treatment.
Because the sores are painless, they may go unnoticed, leading to delayed diagnosis.
Secondary stage:
Develops a few weeks after the primary stage, even if the sores have healed.
Symptoms may include a skin rash (typically non-itchy), often on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
Other symptoms can include fever, fatigue, sore throat, swollen lymph nodes, patchy hair loss, headaches, and muscle aches.
These symptoms may come and go over several weeks or months.
Latent stage:
In this stage, the infection is still present but may not cause any noticeable symptoms.
The latent stage can last for years, and the infection becomes dormant.
Without treatment, the infection can progress to the late stage.
Late stage (Tertiary syphilis):
This stage can occur years after the initial infection.
It can affect various organs, including the heart, brain, nerves, bones, and joints.
Symptoms can range from difficulty coordinating muscle movements, paralysis, numbness, and gradual blindness to severe damage to internal organs.
Late-stage syphilis can be life-threatening.
It’s important to note that the symptoms of syphilis can vary or even go unnoticed, especially in the early stages. Regular testing for syphilis is recommended, especially if you engage in high-risk sexual behaviors or have multiple sexual partners.
To identify syphilis, a healthcare provider can perform a blood test to detect the presence of syphilis antibodies. In some cases, a sample from a sore or tissue can be collected and examined under a microscope to confirm the diagnosis.
If diagnosed with syphilis, it’s essential to receive appropriate treatment with antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare professional. Early treatment can help eliminate the infection and prevent further complications. Additionally, sexual partners should be informed and encouraged to seek testing and treatment if necessary to prevent transmission and reinfection.
If you suspect you may have syphilis or have engaged in high-risk sexual behavior, it’s crucial to seek medical attention for proper evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment.
