Syphilis: Early Detection Leads to Effective Treatment
A sexually transmitted disease that is caused by bacteria, Treponema Pallidum, is Syphilis. Genital area, mount, lips or anus of both men and women are certain areas that are infected by the disease. Usually, the disease transmits when a person gets engaged sexually with the infected person. Sometimes, disease also passed on from mother to baby during pregnancy.
As per the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious diseases (NIAID) research report “Although, in the U.S., syphilis rates has been decreased by 90 percent from 1990 to 2000, within the time span of 6 years (2000-2006), number of cases have increased by 3777. In one year 2005-2006, syphilis rate has been increased by 12 percent.” Let’s explore some vital information about the disease.
Signs and Symptoms of Syphilis
Signs and Symptoms of Syphilis
Signs and symptoms of Syphilis vary as per the different stages of the disease. In primary stage, swollen lymph nodes and painless sores are observed as possible symptoms.
Stages of Syphilis
Stages of Syphilis
Syphilis is a disease that progresses through 3 distinct stages. Sometimes, people experience all 3 stages, whereas, sometimes all stages are not evident.
Diagnosis of Syphilis
Diagnosis of Syphilis
Syphilis can be diagnosed by undertaking blood tests. The tests that help in diagnosing syphilis are VDRL, RPR, FTA-ABS.
Treatment of Syphilis
Treatment of Syphilis
Syphilis can be cured easily in the initial stages, but it does not imply that in later stages the disease cannot be cured. Antibiotic like Penicillin is the best medication, prescribed by health professionals, for treating the disease.
Possible Complications
If Syphilis remains untreated, then serious complications can occur that include:
- Blood vessel and heart problems, including aneurysms and inflammation
Prevention of Syphilis
It is advised to follow precautionary measures like practicing safe sex by making use of condoms, etc. Moreover, pregnant women and HIV patients, those who are at increased risk, are advised to undertake test of syphilis at regular intervals. Early detection of the disease results in undertaking necessary treatments at apposite times.
Summary
Syphilis, a sexually transmitted disease, is caused by bacteria. The disease occurs in three different stages. Blood tests are undertaken by professionals to diagnose the disease. The disease is easy to cure with Penicillin, an antibiotic. Usage of latex condom is recommended in order to reduce the risk of spreading Syphilis.
Written by: healthplus24 team
Date last updated: July 02, 2011