Syphilis Treatment
0 Treatments
7 FAQs
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It spreads through unprotected vaginal, anal, or oral sex, as well as from mother to baby during pregnancy (congenital syphilis). Syphilis develops in stages (primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary), with different symptoms at each stage. If left untreated, it can cause serious complications, including organ damage, neurological problems, and cardiovascular disease. However, syphilis is highly treatable with antibiotics, especially in the early stages.
Treatments (0)
Advice for Syphilis Treatment
Syphilis progresses through four stages, each with distinct symptoms:
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Primary Syphilis:
- A painless sore (chancre) appears at the site of infection (genitals, mouth, or anus).
- The sore heals within a few weeks, but the infection remains.
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Secondary Syphilis:
- A rash, often on the palms and soles.
- Flu-like symptoms (fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, muscle aches).
- Mouth ulcers or wart-like growths around the genitals.
- Symptoms may disappear, but the infection progresses if untreated.
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Latent Syphilis:
- No visible symptoms, but the infection remains in the body.
- Can last for years if untreated.
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Tertiary Syphilis:
- Can cause serious damage to the brain, heart, nerves, and other organs.
- May lead to blindness, paralysis, dementia, and cardiovascular complications.
Syphilis can also affect the nervous system (neurosyphilis) and cause eye infections (ocular syphilis) at any stage.
Syphilis Treatment FAQs (7)
A blood test detects syphilis. In some cases, dark-field microscopy or a spinal tap may be needed if neurosyphilis is suspected.
Yes. Penicillin injections effectively cure syphilis, especially in early stages. If allergic to penicillin, other antibiotics like doxycycline may be used.
Syphilis can remain in the body for years or even decades if untreated, leading to serious complications such as brain damage, heart disease, and blindness.
Once properly treated, syphilis does not reactivate, but reinfection is possible if exposed again. Regular STI screenings help prevent this.
- Use condoms or dental dams during sex.
- Get tested regularly if sexually active.
- Avoid contact with sores or rashes.
- Ensure partners get tested and treated.
Yes. Untreated syphilis can pass to the baby during pregnancy, leading to serious birth defects, stillbirth, or infant death. Pregnant women should be screened early and treated if needed.
Syphilis is mainly spread through sexual contact, but it can also be transmitted through open sores in the mouth during kissing or oral sex. It does not spread through casual contact, like sharing food or toilet seats.
