Many people think syphilis is a disease that plagued people decades ago. The truth is, it is becoming more prevalent in the U. S. Especially among males. People who are sexually active should be familiar with the various symptoms and be able to identify them. This disease affects the body in stages and the earlier it is detected, the better off the patient will be. This article will focus on secondary syphilis.
This disease has a remarkable ability to mimic other conditions that are less serious. This disease spreads by direct contact with a chancre or open sore. The size of the chancre has nothing to do with the spread of the disease. Even a very small sore that is undetectable is enough for transmission from one person to another. It is readily contracted through oral, anal or vaginal intercourse. The initial stage will often go undetected because even if the sore is detected, it may be diagnosed as something less serious. It is common for this disease to advance to its secondary stage.
Secondary syphilis is usually more visible. A non-itching rash shows up on the palms of the hands and/or the soles of the feet. The rash can have red or reddish-brown spots. If you notice this rash, seek treatment right away to prevent any further damage to your body. Other symptoms you may notice during secondary syphilis include hair loss, weight loss, fatigue, a sore throat, muscle aches or swollen glands.
Ignoring this condition beyond this point can turn out to be fatal. The internal organs including the brain and liver are attacked and can even be permanently damaged. This condition will also affect the nerves and joints. It will often enter a latent stage where symptoms cease but the underlying disease is still present. Failure to seek treatment will result in the final stages which lead to failure of the affected organs and death.
Routine STD testing is recommended twice every year for people who are sexually active. This is the only way to ensure that you remain healthy. This is also important for the health of your partner. Early treatment is necessary to avoid permanent damage.
In addition, it is wise to practice safe sex at all times with a latex condom to help reduce contact with an undetected syphilis chancre.
This disease has a remarkable ability to mimic other conditions that are less serious. This disease spreads by direct contact with a chancre or open sore. The size of the chancre has nothing to do with the spread of the disease. Even a very small sore that is undetectable is enough for transmission from one person to another. It is readily contracted through oral, anal or vaginal intercourse. The initial stage will often go undetected because even if the sore is detected, it may be diagnosed as something less serious. It is common for this disease to advance to its secondary stage.
Secondary syphilis is usually more visible. A non-itching rash shows up on the palms of the hands and/or the soles of the feet. The rash can have red or reddish-brown spots. If you notice this rash, seek treatment right away to prevent any further damage to your body. Other symptoms you may notice during secondary syphilis include hair loss, weight loss, fatigue, a sore throat, muscle aches or swollen glands.
Ignoring this condition beyond this point can turn out to be fatal. The internal organs including the brain and liver are attacked and can even be permanently damaged. This condition will also affect the nerves and joints. It will often enter a latent stage where symptoms cease but the underlying disease is still present. Failure to seek treatment will result in the final stages which lead to failure of the affected organs and death.
Routine STD testing is recommended twice every year for people who are sexually active. This is the only way to ensure that you remain healthy. This is also important for the health of your partner. Early treatment is necessary to avoid permanent damage.
In addition, it is wise to practice safe sex at all times with a latex condom to help reduce contact with an undetected syphilis chancre.
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Concerned you may have syphilis? STD testing can put your mind at ease. Visit a local std testing center today.
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