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If left untreated, the disease will go into hiding
for a while, possibly a few years. It then shows up as damage to
the brain, nervous system, and circulatory system resulting in heart
and vascular disease, insanity, paralysis and even death. Pregnant
mothers can transfer the disease to their developing fetus causing
deformities and death.
Methods of contraction
Syphilis can be transferred by sexual contact or by contact between
an infected sex organ and an open cut in the skin. Also, mothers
can transfer syphilis to their newborn resulting in bone deformities,
blindness, facial disfigurement, or still births.
Symptoms
If you notice any of the following symptoms,
you must get medical treatment immediately:
Stage 1: 10 days to 6 weeks after exposure
- Painless sores on the genitals, rectum, tongue,
lips, or mouth appear, then disappear 1 or 2 weeks later.
Stage 2: 1 week to 6 months after exposure
- A rash spreads over the body especially prevalent
on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
- Enlarged lymph nodes in the groin
- Flu-like symptoms, such as fever and headache
- Soreness, aching and swelling of the joints
Stage 3: a number of years after exposure
- Heart disease
- Mental deterioration
- Death
Diagnosis
The blood test, VDRL(or RPR) can be requested every time you visit
your doctor for a checkup.
Treatment
The disease is very curable in its early stages, so once that sore
shows up, go to the doctor immediately...
- Penicillin injections or other antibiotics
for those allergic to penicillin.
- Periodic blood tests to ensure the infection
has been annihilated.
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