Syphilis is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. It can be easily treated with antibiotics in its early stages, but if left untreated, it can cause serious health problems.
Causes
- Treponema pallidum bacteria
Symptoms
Syphilis progresses through several stages, and symptoms can vary depending on the stage. Some people may not experience any symptoms at all. Here’s a breakdown of the symptoms by stage:
- Primary Syphilis: The first sign of syphilis is usually a painless sore called a chancre. It appears at the site of infection, typically on the genitals, rectum, or mouth, around 3 weeks after exposure. The sore typically heals on its own within 6 weeks, but the person is still contagious.
- Secondary Syphilis: Weeks after the chancre heals, a flu-like illness with fever, fatigue, sore throat, headache, and muscle aches may develop. A reddish brown rash may also appear on the body, including the palms and soles of the feet. These symptoms may also disappear on their own, but the person remains infected.
- Latent Syphilis: In this stage, there are no symptoms. However, the person is still infected and can transmit the bacteria to others.
- Tertiary Syphilis: If left untreated, syphilis can damage internal organs and cause serious health problems, including heart disease, neurological problems, blindness, and even death.
Mode of Transmission
Syphilis is spread through direct contact with the mucous membranes or broken skin of an infected person. The most common way to contract syphilis is through vaginal, anal, or oral sex. It can also be transmitted from a mother to her baby during pregnancy or childbirth, or through contact with an infected person’s sores.
Preventive Measures
The most effective way to prevent syphilis is to practice safe sex. This includes:
- Using condoms or dental dams consistently and correctly every time you have sex
- Limiting your number of sexual partners
- Getting tested for STIs regularly, especially if you have new sexual partners
If you think you may have syphilis, it’s important to get tested and treated as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent serious health problems.
