Syphilis is a serious disease that can be debilitating and even result in death if left untreated. You can have syphilis and pass it on to others without knowing. There are over 120,000 new cases of syphilis in the United States each year.
Syphilis has three stages. The first stage is a painless sore at the spot where the bacteria first entered the body. The second stage apears around 3 months after infection and includes flu-like symptoms and possible hair loss. Some people also develop sores on the palms of their hands and soles of their feet. The final stage includes skin lesions, mental deterioration, loss of balance and vision, loss of sensation, pains in the legs, and heart disease.
A simple blood test can determine whether you have the disease or not. However, it may take 2-3 weeks for the disease to show up in your blood system.
Syphilis can be treated easily with antibiotics. The most common treatment is penicillin injections.
You can aquire Syphilis through all types of sex. Ways to reduce risk of syphilis include limiting number of sex partners, using condoms, and avoiding sexual contact if you think you are infected. |
