SYPHILIS
Syphilis may start silently, but it can lead to serious health issues if you ignore it
This thread explains everything you need to know about this sneaky infection, how to spot it, and protect yourself!”
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum
It has different stages as it progresses.
✍🏽 PRIMARY STAGE
It starts with a sore called a chancre. It is painless and appears where the bacteria entered the body, commonly your genitals, rectum, or mouth.
The sore appears 3 to 6 weeks after exposure and heals on its own, but this does not mean the infection is gone😬
✍🏽 SECONDARY STAGE
If ignored, syphilis progresses to the secondary stage, where symptoms like:
– a rash (often on the palms and soles)
– fever
– swollen lymph nodes
– sore throat
– fatigue appear.
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These signs come and go, but the infection remains active in the body 😬
✍🏽 Latent Stage
During this stage, there are no visible symptoms, but the bacteria stay in the body.
This “hidden” stage can last for years, and though there are no symptoms, the infection can still cause damage internally
syphilis can cause damage to internal organs such as the heart, brain, and nerves.
✍🏽 HOW IS SYPHILIS SPREAD?
Syphilis is passed from person to person during sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, or oral sex.
It can also be passed from a pregnant woman to her baby, causing serious health issues for the newborn.
✍🏽 IT IS EASY TO TREAT, EARLY
Syphilis is easily treated with antibiotics, especially in the early stages.
✍🏽 IT IS BETTER TO PREVENT IT
– Use condoms during sex
– Get regular STI testing
– Limit sexual partners
– Ensure partners are tested
– Pregnant women should be tested to protect their baby
Syphilis can be serious alright, but it is entirely preventable and treatable, especially if caught early!
Make sure to get tested regularly and seek treatment early
Stay informed about your health on x by following @OGreat6..
– Pharm. Greatman