Syphilis is the bacterial infection that is caused by a bacterium called Treponema Pallidum and it is usually acquired by a person through sexual contact. The condition is treatable when diagnosed in the early stage and if it goes untreated it may cause neurological disorders, disability, and even death. The condition starts as a painful sore which develops usually on rectum, genitals, and mouth. It is highly contiguous and hence spread from person to person through mucous membrane and skin contact with sores. In the early stage of the infection, no symptoms are shown and it may lie dormant for decades until it becomes active again later. It is necessary to diagnose the condition in early stage for permanent treatment.
What are the Symptoms of Syphilis?
The symptoms of Syphilis usually vary depending upon its stage.
- In the primary stage, the person would have a small sore which is referred to as a chancre and it usually appears on the spot from where the bacteria have entered the body.
- In the secondary stage, you may experience a rash that starts from the trunk and gradually spread across your body.
- Latent or hidden Syphilis symptoms are not visible and it lasts for years for before it is active again after a few years.
- Tertiary Syphilis symptoms include complications with nerves, blood vessels, heart, eyes, brain and other organs of the body
- Congenital Syphilis has no symptoms and it is usually spread in babies who are delivered by an infected mother.
What are the Causes of Syphilis?
As mentioned, Syphilis is the sexually transmitted infection which is caused by a bacterium called Treponema Pallidum. This bacterium makes its route into your body via sexual contact. It can also enter your body via small cuts, mucous membrane, and abrasions in the skin. It is highly contiguous in nature during the initial and secondary stage.
What are the Treatment Options for Syphilis?
Treatment for Syphilis is possible when it is diagnosed in the primary stage. The only treatment for all the stages of infection is antibiotic medication which can kill the bacterium in the body causing the infection. Your doctor would check which antibiotic would be suitable for you depending and prescribe you to use the doses of antibiotics to treat the infection in the body.
A single shot of antibiotic injection can stop the bacterium from progressing and people who are having the infection for more than one year may need more doses of antibiotics.