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Syphilis
WHAT YOU SHOULD
KNOW
Syphilis (SIF-uh-lis) is an infection that is spread
during vaginal, oral, and anal (rectal) sex and sometimes by
heavy kissing. Although it may seem to go away without
treatment, unless it is cured with antibiotics it will return
later, spread, and attack almost any part of the body including
the skin, heart, blood vessels, and brain. Antibiotics usually
cure the infection in 2 to 3 weeks.
Causes
Syphilis is caused by a type of
bacteria called
Treponema pallidum.
Signs/Symptoms
Syphilis has three stages, each
with different symptoms. During the first stage (3 to 6
days after infection), a red sore appears on the mouth, penis,
rectum, vagina, or, sometimes, on another part of the body. It
usually doesn't hurt, and many people don't even notice it.
Even though this sore goes away in 1 or 2 months without
treatment, the infection will remain. During this stage, the
germs can be spread to others during sex.
The second stage occurs about 6 to 12 weeks after
infection. A small, red, scaly rash appears on the skin, mouth,
and sex organs (penis, vagina). Many people also have swollen
glands, headache, fever, upset stomach, a stiff neck, and
fatigue. During this stage, the infection can be spread to
others. The third stage, which may take place years
later, can include many different symptoms such as skin sores
and pain in the bones. If the infection spreads to the brain, a
person may lose the ability to think clearly. Other symptoms
include loss of balance, lack of feeling in the arms or legs,
and even paralysis (difficulty moving). Some people have heart
problems. During this stage, the infection cannot be spread to
others.
Care
To make certain the infection is syphilis, the doctor may
do a blood test or take a sample of fluid from a sore.
Antibiotic medicine is usually given to fight the
infection.
WHAT YOU SHOULD DO
-
It is important to follow your doctor's instructions
carefully. Syphilis usually can be cured in the early
stages, but only if you take antibiotics exactly as
prescribed. If your symptoms disappear, do not assume that
the infection is cured and stop treatment. The infection
can hide in the body for years and must be thoroughly
eradicated.
-
A few hours after beginning antibiotics, you may get
a fever, chills that make you shake, headache, upset
stomach, and muscle aches. The rash may get worse. These
symptoms last about 24 hours. Rest in bed. Your doctor may
tell you to take over-the counter medicine such as aspirin,
acetaminophen, or ibuprofen to reduce the fever and ease
the pain.
-
Tell all the people you had sex with during the last
3 months that you have syphilis. They may be infected and
need treatment.
-
Don't have sex until your doctor tells you the
infection is cured. This usually takes at least 2 months.
After that, use a condom for protection against syphilis
and other infections.
-
If you are pregnant, be sure to tell your doctor that
you have syphilis. A pregnant woman can pass syphilis on to
her baby before it is born, and the infection can cause
birth defects or even death.
-
After treatment, you must have a blood test every few
months for 1 to 2 years to make sure your infection has
really been cured.
Call Your Doctor If...
-
You have a high temperature, a new rash, sore throat,
swelling in a joint, or any new symptoms during or after
treatment.
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