What is Syphilis?

About Syphilis:

• It is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can cause serious health problems if you do not treat it. 
• It is caused by the bacteria, Treponema pallidum.
• After the infection happens, syphilis bacteria can stay in the body for many years without causing symptoms. But the infection can become active again.
• Transmission:
  • People usually get syphilis from sexual contact with someone who has it.
  • It can also pass from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, and sometimes through breastfeeding.
• Symptoms:
  • Syphilis develops in stages. The symptoms vary with each stage and is often painless.
  • The disease starts as a sore that's often painless and typically appears on the genitals, rectum, or mouth.
  • Sometimes it causes swelling in nearby lymph nodes.
  • If you do not treat it, syphilis usually causes a non-itchy skin rash, often on your hands and feet.
  • Many people do not notice symptoms for years. Symptoms can go away and come back.
  • If left untreated, it can cause serious health issues. It can permanently damage your heart, brain, muscles, bones, and eyes.
• Treatment:
• • Syphilis is treatable and curable. It is easy to cure with antibiotics, especially during in the early stages.
  • Penicillin is the most commonly used medication for syphilis.