Syphilis Testing- Why is it important?

Syphilis is extremely contagious sexually transmitted diseases. It is most spread around the body by sexual activities such as oral sex or anal sex. Even long kissing sessions and proximate body contact can lead to syphilis. The disease begins with a sore which is normally painless. However, most people tend to ignore these sores which ultimately grow to the deadly disease. Most of the people who carry this disease are usually unaware of it. Hence, they transfer the disease to their partners too.

In some cases, pregnant women may too be carrying this disease. However, pregnant women who suffer from this disease tend to pass it on to their babies. This refers to congenital syphilis. It can lead to abnormalities in child and may sometimes result in the death of the baby. Like many other problems, syphilis isn't spread by toilet seats, hot tubs, door knobs and so on.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of syphilis are usually differentiated in three stages and different stages have different symptoms. However, after the exposure there may be no symptoms at all for many years. There are three stages: Primary, secondary and sometimes, latent phase.

●     Primary

The symptoms in the primary stage of syphilis are painless. The sores are firm and round in nature and are referred to as chancres. These syphilitic sores usually appear about 3 weeks after the exposure. If treated, these chancres disappear after three to six weeks. If not treated, the disease may escalate to the next step.

●     Secondary

The symptoms in the secondary stages of syphilis includes

A non-itchy rash commences from the trunk and then goes on to spread on the whole body. The rash will appear to be rough and the color will be red or reddish-brown.

●     Sores in the oral, anal and genital area.

●     Hair loss in the form of patches

●     Fatigue

●     Headache

●     Weight loss

●     Pain in muscles

●     Swollen lymph nodes

●     Fever

●     Sore throat

If these symptoms are properly taken care of, they may disappear in a few days. However, they may continue to return for a brief period of time in the long run.

If syphilis isn’t treated in its secondary stage, the problem may escalate to the late or latent syphilis. 

●     Latent

The latent phase of syphilis lasts for several years. In this case, the body does not have prominent symptoms. There are chances of the symptoms disappearing or the problem becoming more serious. In the phase, the T. palladium bacteria continue to be dormant with the chances of recurrences. Even if you do not notice any symptoms, it is better to get treated.

 How is it tested?

In order to confirm syphilis, the doctor usually carries out a physical examination and checks upon the sexual history. The test is done by three procedures: blood test, bodily fluid test and cerebrospinal fluid. If anyone is getting diagnosed for syphilis, their sexual partners should get diagnosed too.

Why is testing important?

Getting the syphilis testing done will not only help you find the detect but will also be beneficial to get the correct treatment. Getting the right treatment for syphilis, can be very helpful for preventing any further exposures or complications. Since most of the time, the symptoms aren’t visible, people think there is no need of getting treated. People who have not tested for syphilis, may unknowingly pass it on to other people which may be a health risk.

If the result of syphilis testing is positive, usually the doctor will suggest starting with the treatment.

What is the danger?

Several people around the world are affected by Syphilis. It is noted by doctors that people who aren’t treated for syphilis or the other sexually transmitted disease will have a significant threat upon the health of the individuals. Even if these diseases do not show signs initially, then can go on to develop and cause injury.

The formation of sores in case of syphilis can prove to be extremely annoying for the body. This is because the sores may interfere with the external appearance. Getting right treatment in right time, can play a significant role in preventing the disease.