Can Syphilis Be Fully Cured?

Over the last four years, Better2Know has noticed a concerning rise in the rates of syphilis transmission. Testing has shown a threefold increase in positive syphilis cases within our communities. This increase in positive results is a deeply worrying trend, especially since most cases of syphilis are initially asymptomatic. It’s important to get tested so you can receive the proper treatment you need and avoid spreading it to your partner.

What Are the Symptoms Associated With Syphilis?

Typically, there are no noticeable symptoms associated with syphilis for several weeks after transmission. When symptoms do appear, they tend to appear in stages.

Primary Stage

This stage usually occurs from two to twelve weeks after transmission. It includes:

• A single sore (chancre) on the genitals or anus
• Sores on lips or hands

Secondary Stage

• Rash that eventually covers the body
• Warty growths on genitals
• Mild flu-like symptoms

Latent Stage

This is called the latent stage because there are often no symptoms. This stage can last for years. During this time, you may transmit syphilis to partners if you are unaware that you have it.

Tertiary Stage

This is the late stage of syphilis during which complications may develop if a person has not been treated. This stage can develop anywhere from one year after infection to more than five years.

During the tertiary stage, syphilis may damage the liver, heart, bone, and other organs. Syphilis can also spread and damage the eye, brain and nervous system during any stage.

Can Syphilis Be Fully Cured?

Yes, syphilis is fully curable with the appropriate antibiotics. However, it is also associated with increased neurological issues and causes irreversible damage to the body if left untreated. Because syphilis can cause long-term damage, it is important to get tested to know your status.

Can I Work if I Have Syphilis?

Yes, you can work if you have syphilis or are currently undergoing treatment. Syphilis does not prevent you from tending to your daily tasks. However, you should abstain from sex while you are undergoing treatment. Remember to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and hot water if you touch an infected area on your body. Let your partner know that you have syphilis so they can also get checked. Treatment for syphilis is very effective and only requires antibiotics. It’s important to get tested so you can prevent organ damage and avoid spreading it to others.

How Is Syphilis Diagnosed?

The first step in getting diagnosed is to be tested. By scheduling an appointment and finding out your status, you can get the information that you need to take control of your health and receive treatment in a timely manner. The longer you wait, the more likely it is for complications to develop.        

Final Thoughts

Syphilis is easily treatable. However, it’s important to get tested as there are sometimes no symptoms at all. Without treatment, syphilis can cause damage to the brain, heart, liver, and other organs. Syphilis is especially dangerous for pregnant women, as it can be passed from mothers to unborn children.

Better2Know makes it easy and convenient to get tested for syphilis. Schedule your appointment today.

Sources

• Syphilis – NHS
• Syphilis – Symptoms and causes – Mayo Clinic