Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. If left untreated, syphilis can lead to serious long-term complications that impact many different organs. When syphilis goes untreated, it progresses through four stages: primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary. Each stage presents its own set of symptoms and complications.
Primary and Secondary Stages
In the primary stage, a painless sore called a chancre appears at the site of infection, typically the genitals, anus, or mouth. This sore can go unnoticed or be mistaken for a harmless bump, leading to delayed detection and treatment. If left untreated, the infection progresses to the secondary stage, which can include symptoms such as rash, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and sore throat. These symptoms can be mistaken for other illnesses, further delaying proper diagnosis and treatment.
Latent and Tertiary Stages
As syphilis progresses to the latent stage, the symptoms may disappear, but the infection remains in the body and can cause serious complications years later. In the tertiary stage, syphilis can affect the heart, brain, nerves, eyes, and other organs, leading to conditions such as cardiovascular disease, neurosyphilis, and vision problems. These complications can be debilitating and even life-threatening if left untreated.
Get Tested and Treated Early
The good news is that syphilis is easily treatable with antibiotics if detected early. At Infections Managed, we offer confidential and affordable STI testing to help diagnose syphilis and other infections quickly and accurately. Our experienced healthcare providers can provide treatment options that are effective in eliminating the infection and preventing long-term complications.
It’s important to get tested regularly for STIs, including syphilis, especially if you are sexually active or have multiple partners. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing the negative consequences of untreated syphilis and protecting your overall health.Don’t let syphilis go untreated. Contact Infections Managed today to schedule your test, and take control of your sexual health. Your well-being is our top priority.