Syphilis is an infection that is transmitted through sex. This sexually transmitted infection occurs when Treponema pallidum, a bacterium, enters the body. The bacteria are transmitted through the mucous membranes that are located at openings in the body. Syphilis resembles AIDS in a number of ways, but is relatively treatable. Syphilis is a fairly common and dangerous sexually transmitted infection. There are four stages of the infection and the symptoms that a person has depends on what stage of development that it is in.
However, stages of syphilis can overlap and do not always develop in a particular order. Some people are infected with it and do not show any signs of it for years. For these reasons, syphilis is often difficult to detect. Paying attention to the following 10 symptoms can help you conclude whether this sexually transmitted infection is present so that you can get treatment as soon as possible.
1. Ulcers and Sores
During the first stage of syphilis the majority of people are likely to develop sores and ulcers These ulcers or sores are often quite painless and mostly occur in the oral, rectal, and genital areas. However, these sores may appear on other areas of the body as well. If you have unexplained sores on any area of your body it is a good idea to look at pictures of sores that are similar to determine whether or not syphilis is a possibility.
The ulcers and sores disappear on their own without any type of treatment within about six weeks. There is medication that can be taken to help get rid of them as well. In some cases, a person may only develop a few of these sores and may confuse them as a symptom of another illness. It is a good idea to see a doctor if you have unexplained sores on any part of your body.
