Felicity Culpepper by Hope Culpepper

What is syphilis?

fhcms20017 — 2024-04-18 07:48:21 UTC

Syphilis is a bacterial infection that is usually spread by sexual contact that starts as a painless sore. The sores typically appear in the palms of the hands first.

The four stages of syphilis:

fhcms20017 — 2024-04-18 07:51:51 UTC

The four stages of syphilis include the primary, secondary, latent, and tertiary stages. Each stage presents different symptoms.

Pathogen that causes Syphilis:

fhcms20017 — 2024-04-18 07:56:58 UTC

The pathogen that causes syphilis is Treponema Pallidum. It is a bacterium that can be easily spread without proper precaution.

Symptoms in the first and second stages:

fhcms20017 — 2024-04-18 07:59:44 UTC

In the first stage of syphilis, sores can be noticed popping up all over the body. There are also enlarged lymph nodes near the sores. In the second stage, a fever, sore throat, and headaches can begin.

Symptoms in the third and fourth stages:

fhcms20017 — 2024-04-18 08:01:56 UTC

The third stage of syphilis can cause serious blood vessel and heart problems, blindness, and nervous system issues. The fourth and final stage can cause paralysis, dementia, and even death.

Effect on Newborns:

fhcms20017 — 2024-04-18 08:04:25 UTC

Babies that are born with congenital syphilis can have bone damage, severe anemia, enlarged liver and spleen, jaundice, nerve problems, and rashes.

Long Term Effects:

fhcms20017 — 2024-04-18 08:06:25 UTC

Long term effects include: paralysis, cardiovascular disease, anemia, blindness, seizures, deformed bones, dementia, and meningitis.

Treatment:

fhcms20017 — 2024-04-18 08:09:33 UTC

A single injection of long-acting Benzathine penicillin G can cure the early stages of syphilis.

What is the best way to prevent getting syphilis?

fhcms20017 — 2024-04-18 08:13:30 UTC

The most basic way to prevent getting syphilis is to remain abstinent. The other option is to use protection when having sex.

Summary:

fhcms20017 — 2024-04-18 08:20:45 UTC

Syphilis is a bacterial sexually transmitted infection that is caused by Treponema Palladum. This STI can be cured, but it is important to catch it in the early stages. If not cured, syphilis can have detrimental effects on the body.