Syphilis is a common sexually transmitted bacterial infection that is passed through direct contact with a syphilis sore, which most often develops on the vagina, anus, rectum or mouth. This condition progresses in stages and can lead to serious, life-threatening side effects if not treated properly.
Fortunately, most cases of syphilis can be successfully treated through antibiotics, so that patients can continue to lead a healthy, active life without the constant worrying and embarrassment of an STD. Our doctors at Family Care Torrance are highly skilled and experienced in providing comprehensive care for syphilis and related infections.

Symptoms

Symptoms of this condition may develop at different stages of the disease, and may be hard to distinguish, as they may be caused by a wide range of other conditions. Many patients do not experience any symptoms for many years, but are still considered at risk for complications if the condition is not treated properly.
During the primary stage, usually only a single sore, called a chancre, is visible, often developing anywhere from 10 to 90 days after infection. It usually lasts for three to six weeks before healing on its own.
Secondary stage syphilis occurs as the chancre heals, and is often marked by one or more rashes on the body, as well as:

• Fever
• Sores on the Skin
• Swollen Glands
• Sore Throat
• Hair Loss
• Headaches
• Weight Loss

Late stage syphilis often occurs after a period of no symptoms, and affects about 15 to 30 percent of patients who do not receive proper treatment early on. This stage often involves damage to the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, liver, bones and joints, and involves symptoms such as:

• Paralysis
• Numbness
• Blindness
• Dementia
• Involuntary muscle movement

This stage may occur several years after the initial infection.

Diagnosis

If you are experiencing any symptoms of syphilis or are considered at a high risk of being infected, your doctor may perform a blood test or by take a swab sample of a sore in the affected area to analyze under a microscope. Since pregnant women can pass the infection to their child, which can be fatal in some cases, most pregnant women are tested for syphilis.

Complications

If syphilis is not treated and progresses to a late stage, it may cause serious, irreversible damage to the body, while also significantly increasing a patient's risk of developing HIV. In addition, patients may also experience stroke, infection, paralysis, heart disease, pregnancy complications and other serious side effects from syphilis. It is important to get tested and undergo necessary treatment at the first sign of syphilis.

Treatment

In its early stages, syphilis can be easily cured with penicillin, an antibiotic that is injected in a single dose in patients who were infected less than a year ago. Patients with older cases may require additional doses. Other antibiotics are available for patients allergic to penicillin. Patients may experience reaction symptoms to treatment, including fever, chills, nausea and headache, although these usually subside within a day.
It is important to abstain from sex until treatment is completed and active sores have completely healed.

Prevention

Preventing syphilis can be done through abstaining from sex or being faithful to a partner who has been tested for syphilis. Using condoms every time you have vaginal, anal or oral sex can reduce the risk of developing syphilis. If you are sexually active and at risk for infection, it is important to get tested regularly and maintain open communication with your partner.
Your doctor at Family Care Torrance can help you develop ways to further reduce your risk of syphilis and other STDs through full patient education and understanding, and the highest quality of compassionate care.