What is Syphilis Disease?

What is Syphilis Disease? Key Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Options

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is transmitted from one person to another through sexual contact, such as oral, vaginal or anal sex. It is a curable condition; however, if left untreated, it can damage your heart, brain, eyes and nervous system.

Keep scrolling to learn more about the stages, symptoms, and treatment regimen of syphilis.

What are the Different Stages of Syphilis Disease?

The syphilis disease progresses through 4 stages:

1. Primary Syphilis : This stage is characterized by the development of chancre, a smooth and hard sore, formed on the genitals and mouth. It is usually painless and might resolve within 3 to 6 weeks. However, if not treated in this stage, it progresses towards the secondary stage.
2. Secondary Syphilis : The secondary stage is characterized by the occurrence of a rough, bumpy syphilis rash that covers the entire body. However, these are not pruritic and may be accompanied by fatigue, weight loss, fever, etc. If the patient is not on medication in this stage, it later progresses towards latent syphilis.
3. Latent Syphilis : There are no visible symptoms in latent syphilis. Early latent syphilis is still contagious,. If left untreated. This stage progresses to late syphilis.
4. Late Syphilis : This is the last stage in syphilis, which leads to a range of serious complications, such as:

• Heart problems
• Nerve issues
• Seizures
• Vision problems
• Brain damage

What are the Symptoms of Syphilis?

Some of the common symptoms of syphilis include:

• Fever
• Sores
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Weight loss
• Muscle ache
• Patchy hair loss
• Sore throat
• Headaches
• Syphilis rash
• Chancres

How to Diagnose Syphilis Disease?

Syphilis can be diagnosed through the following tests:

• Blood Test:Blood tests show the presence of antibodies against the bacteria that are responsible for syphilis.
• Fluid Sample from Sore:The fluid from the sore can confirm the presence of the causative agent of syphilis.
• CSF Sample: CSF stands for cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. If nervous system issues are suspected, then your healthcare provider might suggest a CSF study to confirm the presence of syphilis-causing bacteria.

How to Treat Syphilis Disease?

As syphilis is a bacterial infection, it is treated with antibiotic medicines. Find the details below:

• The most commonly used antibiotic for syphilis is penicillin, unless contraindicated otherwise.
• Dose and duration of treatment depend on the severity of the disease. However, it is essential to finish the course of medicine even if the symptoms go away to treat syphilis fully.

How to Prevent Syphilis Disease?

Go through the following tips to reduce the chances of getting syphilis during sexual contact:

• Avoid sexual contact with individuals who are already infected with syphilis.
• Use a condom with your sexual partner if you are unaware of their health status.
• Ensure that the condom fits properly before having intercourse.
• Avoid oral sex, or use a dental dam.
• Do not share sex toys with others.
• Avoid having multiple sexual partners as they increase the chances of getting syphilis.

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection that spreads through body fluids during sexual contact. It progresses through 4 stages, which eventually result in severe complications such as brain damage, heart problems, etc. Hence, it is essential to be aware of the symptoms and get treated if infected.