Syphilis is a highly contagious sexually transmitted bacterial infection that progresses through stages, and if left untreated, it can lead to severe health complications. As per the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), reported cases of syphilis (all stages) have increased by 74% since 2017, totalling more than 176,000 cases in 2021.
CDC informed that this exponential rise in syphilis cases is a sign of the disruptions in STI-related prevention and care services due to the COVID-19 pandemic. While speaking to the team of OnlyMyHealth, Dr Preethika Shetty, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharadi, urged, “Understanding the causes of syphilis is crucial in preventing its transmission and managing its spread.”
Understanding Syphilis
Dr Shetty informed, “One of the primary causes of syphilis is engaging in unprotected sex with an infected individual. This includes vaginal, anal, or oral sex without using condoms or dental dams. Another common cause of syphilis is sharing needles with someone who is infected. Additionally, a pregnant woman with untreated syphilis can transmit the infection to her unborn resulting in congenital syphilis.”
“These various modes of transmission highlight the importance of practising safe sex and avoiding risky behaviours to prevent contracting and spreading syphilis,” she added.
Also Read: Sexual & Reproductive Health Awareness Day: Doctor On Reducing Stigma Related to STD & STIs
To raise awareness about the symptoms of Syphilis, Dr Shetty listed the various stages through which the STI progresses in an infected person:
Primary Syphilis
During the initial phase of a syphilis infection, symptoms may not be immediately apparent, leading many to remain unaware of their condition. This is known as primary syphilis, and it usually begins with a painless sore or ulcer at the site of infection. Although it may go unnoticed, this soreness is highly contagious and can easily be transmitted through sexual contact.
Secondary Syphilis
As the infection progresses into secondary syphilis, individuals may experience a range of symptoms that are often mistaken for other common ailments. These include rash-like patches on the skin, particularly on the palms and soles of the feet, fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, and hair loss. These initial signs may come and go over several weeks or months before disappearing altogether.
Latent Syphilis
If not treated, syphilis can enter a latent stage with no visible symptoms. This is the most dangerous stage as it presents no symptoms, but the bacteria remain in the body and can progress to the final stage.
Tertiary Syphilis
In its final stage, syphilis can cause severe damage to organs such as the heart, brain, nerves, and bones. This stage can be life-threatening and might even result in death.
Tips to Prevent Syphilis
Relaying safety tips for sexually active individuals, Dr Shetty listed preventive measures to avoid not just syphilis but all STIs:
- Practice Safe Sex: Use condoms consistently and correctly every time you have sex. Since STIs are transmitted through body fluids, condoms can significantly reduce the risk of syphilis transmission.
- Regular Testing: If you are sexually active, especially with multiple partners, regular STI testing is crucial. Early detection allows for prompt treatment and enables treating syphilis before it enters a latent phase and rears its ugly head.
- Limit Sexual Partners: Reducing the number of sexual partners can lower your risk of exposure to syphilis and other STIs.
- Vaccination: While there is no vaccine for syphilis, getting vaccinated against other STIs like HPV can protect against co-infections that may worsen syphilis.
- Open Communication: Honest and open communication with sexual partners about STI history, testing, and vaccination against preventable infections, can help prevent the spread of syphilis.
- Awareness: Education plays a vital role in protecting oneself from STIs. Keeping up to date with accurate information on different types of STIs can help you make informed decisions about sexual health and better understand the risks involved. Being aware of risk factors such as multiple or new sexual partners further empowers individuals to take necessary precautions.
How Is Syphilis Treated?
Syphilis is treated with antibiotics, typically penicillin. The choice of antibiotic and treatment duration depends on the stage of the infection. Treatment is most effective in the early stages but can still be successful in later stages.
Also Read: How STD Affect Fertility? Know Importance of STD Screening And Detection To Protect Fertility
It’s crucial to complete the entire course of antibiotics as prescribed by a healthcare provider, even if symptoms disappear. Follow-up testing is essential to ensure that the infection has been cured.
Beware of STIs
Syphilis is a serious STI that can lead to severe health complications if left untreated. However, with awareness, prevention measures, regular testing, and appropriate treatment, syphilis can be effectively managed and even prevented. Remember that seeking timely medical care is essential if you suspect you may have syphilis or any other STI.
Since these symptoms can be mistaken for various other conditions, such as flu or allergies, many individuals often unknowingly pass off their early-stage syphilis symptoms as something less serious. Consequently, they are likely to delay seeking medical attention until more severe manifestations occur later in the disease’s progression. Therefore, educating yourself about these initial symptoms is essential in order to encourage timely diagnosis and treatment for those affected by Syphilis.
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