Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Stages of Syphilis

Most people who have contracted syphilis will know it, as there will be sores present. It is spread from one person to another when these sores are contacted. The main way in which transmission occurs is through sexual contact. It can also be contracted by kissing. Syphilis is a particularly horrible STD, as it can also be passed to a child if the mother becomes infected during pregnancy.

How common is this disease?
As estimated, there are more than 12 million cases each year. As a result, more cases are caught and treated early. The UK has not prevented cases of syphilis, although compared to many countries it is not as prolific. The good news is that syphilis can be successfully treated as long as it is caught early. All that is needed are antibiotics and it is for this reason that an STD test should be done. Failure to identify and treat syphilis can cause serious health problems. These include the following: paralysis, stroke, or blindness. It could also cause death. There are four recognized stages in which syphilis is developing and the longer it is left on, the more difficult it will be to treat.

Primary stage: A sore will appear and will usually be around the genitals. It will be invisible and during this time the victim will be contagious. However, they will not be aware of its condition and can spread it to several people. This stage will take between three weeks and three months for it to be clear that there is a problem. In men, the sore will appear on the penis and in women, around the vagina. Sometimes the sores develop on the reproductive organs rather than on the outside, where they can be detected. The sores take 3 to 6 weeks to heal, but the infection is still there and can be transmitted.

Stage 2: The rash is now visible and spreads all over the body and appears as pus-filled patches. The symptoms will now be weakness, weight loss, fever, hair loss, swollen lymph nodes, and irregular pupils. Again, the spots will go away, but the infection is still there.

Stage 3: Now the syphilis may appear to be gone as there are no signs, but this stage is dangerous as organ damage could occur. This can take a year or 20 years and during this time symptoms can come and go.

Tertiary stage: This is when heart problems start along with blindness and mental problems. The sores will be much more noticeable, and by now it may be too late for treatment. But if you can recognize that you have a problem and get treatment, the worst can be avoided.

With syphilis, STD tests vary, but are mostly blood tests. They can be purchased to use at home. Cerebrospinal fluid can also be tested, but must be done by a doctor.