It is a sexually transmitted infection. Technically, it is also known as syphilis. syphilis, Treponema pallidum is an infection caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. This bacterium is transmitted through sexual contact, that is, through sexual intercourse with an infected person. The disease typically progresses in three stages.
What are the symptoms?
Syphilis symptoms can be examined in three stages:
Primary (First Stage) Symptoms:
Approximately 10-90 days (usually 21 days) after sexual contact, the first symptoms of infection appear. A painless, hard, round sore appears in the genital area. This lesion is the first symptom of syphilis and is called a chancre. A chancre is an ulcer where bacteria that have entered the body multiply on the skin surface. Chancres are usually painless and can heal on their own. They typically appear in the genital area (penis, vagina, vulva) or the mouth (lips, tongue, tonsils).
Secondary (Second Stage) Symptoms:
After the chancre heals, a rash and skin lesions develop on the body, which expand. This phase usually begins 6 weeks to 6 months after the chancre heals. The rash appears on various parts of the body, is pink-red, and usually appears on the hands and soles of the feet. Flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headache, sore throat, muscle aches, and swollen lymph nodes may also occur.
Tertiary (Third Stage) Symptoms:
If left untreated, syphilis In some patients, it can progress to more serious complications and damage various organs in the body. It can affect the heart, brain, spinal cord, blood vessels, and other internal organs. Symptoms can include cardiovascular and neurological disorders. For example, damage to heart valves, problems with brain tissue, and nervous system disorders can occur. Symptoms can vary from person to person, and while some may be mild, others may be more pronounced. It's important to protect yourself from sexually transmitted infections (STDs) and seek early diagnosis and treatment by consulting a healthcare professional when symptoms appear. Safe sex and regular health checkups are important for protecting yourself from STDs.
What are the Treatment Methods for Syphilis?
Syphilis, It is a treatable disease. Currently, antibiotics are the most commonly used treatment for this condition. Standard treatment generally includes antibiotics such as penicillin. Other beta-lactam antibiotics may also be effective. Treatment plans may vary depending on the stage of the disease and the individual's medical condition. Early-stage disease can usually be successfully treated with short-term treatment, but in advanced stages, the duration of treatment and response to treatment may vary.
It's important to be screened for other sexually transmitted infections (STDs) during treatment and to treat both partners, as otherwise, reinfection is likely. This disease can cause serious complications if left untreated, so it's important to see a healthcare professional if you suspect or experience symptoms of a STD. It's also important to have regular sexual health screenings and practice safe sexual behaviors to protect yourself from any STDs.
