Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. The symptoms of syphilis can vary depending on the stage of the infection. The infection typically progresses through four stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary.
Symptoms of Syphilis:
- Primary Stage:
- Painless sore or open, wet ulcer (chancre) at the site of infection.
- Secondary Stage:
- Rash on the palms of the hands, soles of the feet, or other parts of the body.
- Mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, sore throat, swollen glands, headache, and muscle aches.
- Sores in the mouth, vagina, or anus, and weight or hair loss.
- Latent Stage:
- Changes to mental state, confusion, personality change, and dementia.
- Eye pain, redness, changes in vision, or blindness.
- Hearing loss, ringing in the ears, and dizziness.
- Tertiary Stage:
- Symptoms vary depending on the organ system affected, such as neurosyphilis, ocular syphilis, and otosyphilis.
Its important to note that the symptoms of secondary syphilis may go away on their own, but without treatment, the infection can progress to the latent and possibly tertiary stages of the disease. If you suspect you have been exposed to syphilis or are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly for testing and treatment.
Remember, syphilis can be asymptomatic or have symptoms that mimic other diseases, so regular STD testing is essential, especially if you engage in unprotected sex or have multiple sexual partners.
