Syphilis Symptoms
Causes, Signs & Treatment

Syphilis Symptoms

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It develops in stages and can cause a wide range of symptoms that may come and go, making it difficult to recognise without proper testing.

If left untreated, syphilis can progress to serious complications affecting the heart, brain, and other organs. Early detection and treatment are essential to prevent long-term damage and transmission to others.

What Is Syphilis?

Syphilis is a bacterial infection primarily spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sexual contact with an infected person. It can also be transmitted from a pregnant mother to her baby (congenital syphilis).

The infection progresses in stages:

Primary syphilis
Secondary syphilis
Latent syphilis (no visible symptoms)
Tertiary syphilis (advanced stage with serious complications)

Each stage has different signs and symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Syphilis

Symptoms vary depending on the stage of infection and may not always be noticeable.

Primary Stage
  • A small, painless sore (chancre) at the site of infection (genitals, anus, or mouth)
  • The sore usually heals on its own within 3 to 6 weeks
Secondary Stage
  • Skin rash (often on palms of the hands and soles of the feet)
  • Fever
  • Swollen lymph nodes
  • Sore throat
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle aches
  • Patchy hair loss
  • Mouth or genital sores
Latent Stage
  • No visible symptoms
  • Infection remains in the body and can still cause damage
Tertiary Stage (Late Stage)
  • Damage to the brain, nerves, heart, or other organs
  • Difficulty coordinating movements
  • Numbness or paralysis
  • Vision problems
  • Memory issues

Symptoms may appear weeks after exposure and can disappear without treatment, even though the infection remains.

Causes of Syphilis

1. Unprotected Sexual Contact

Syphilis is most commonly spread through vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person.

2. Direct Contact with Sores

Transmission occurs through contact with a syphilitic sore (chancre), even if it is not visible.

3. Mother-to-Child Transmission

Pregnant women with syphilis can pass the infection to their baby during pregnancy or childbirth.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should seek medical attention if you notice:

  • A painless sore on the genitals, anus, or mouth
  • Unusual skin rashes, especially on palms or soles
  • Flu-like symptoms with swollen lymph nodes
  • Unexplained hair loss
  • Any symptoms after unprotected sexual contact

Testing is recommended even if symptoms disappear, as the infection may still be present.

Diagnosis of Syphilis

At a medical clinic, diagnosis typically involves:

Blood tests to detect syphilis antibodies

Examination of sores (if present)

Comprehensive STD screening

Early testing is key to accurate diagnosis and timely treatment.

Treatment for Syphilis

Syphilis can be effectively cured, especially in the early stages.

Antibiotic Treatment
  • Typically treated with penicillin injections
  • Alternative antibiotics may be used if allergic to penicillin
  • Early-stage syphilis requires simpler treatment than advanced stages
Follow-Up Care
  • Regular blood tests to ensure the infection is fully cleared
  • Monitoring for complications in later stages
Partner Management
  • Sexual partners should be tested and treated
  • Prevents reinfection and further spread

Patients should avoid sexual activity until treatment is completed and cleared by a doctor.

Possible Complications if Untreated

If left untreated, syphilis can lead to serious health problems, including:

Damage to the brain and nervous system (neurosyphilis)

Heart and blood vessel complications

Vision loss or blindness

Paralysis

Increased risk of HIV infection

Severe complications in newborns (congenital syphilis)

Early treatment significantly reduces these risks.

Prevention Tips

To reduce the risk of syphilis:
  • Practise safe sex (use condoms consistently)
  • Limit the number of sexual partners
  • Get regular STD screenings
  • Avoid contact with visible sores or rashes
  • Ensure both partners are tested before sexual activity

When to Get Tested

Regular testing is important because syphilis symptoms may not always be obvious.

You should get tested if you:

Have had unprotected sex

Have multiple sexual partners

Notice any unusual sores or rashes

Have a partner diagnosed with syphilis or another STD

Are pregnant or planning pregnancy

Routine screening helps detect infection early and prevent complications.

Get Checked Early

Syphilis can be silent or mistaken for other conditions, but it can cause serious complications if untreated. Early testing and prompt treatment are essential for protecting your health and preventing transmission.

Visit Careplus Clinic for confidential STD screening, accurate diagnosis, and personalised treatment in a safe and professional environment.

Fast results ยท Confidential & professional care