An outbreak of syphilis in Houston has raised concerns among health officials. Cases of the sexually transmitted infection (STI) in women have increased by 128% since 2019, according to official figures. This has prompted health authorities to take urgent measures to prevent further spread of the potentially life-threatening disease. Pregnant women are at a higher risk of passing it on to their babies, which can result in miscarriages or stillbirths. However, the symptoms of this bacterial infection, which can remain dormant in the body for years, are often mild and difficult to detect. In this article, we will highlight five warning signs of syphilis.
Syphilis is often referred to as ‘the great pretender’ because its symptoms can overlap with those of other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), making it easy for healthcare professionals to overlook them. Here are five warning signs you should be aware of:
1. Multiple Sores:
Syphilis is primarily transmitted through sexual contact and is caused by a bacterium called Treponema pallidum. The earliest indication is the appearance of concave sores, called chancres, in the mouth or genital area. Most infected individuals develop only one sore, which is typically firm and painless. Chancres usually emerge three weeks after exposure to the bacteria at the site of entry. It’s important to note that chancres can last up to six weeks and may disappear without treatment, but this does not mean the infection is gone.
2. Rash on the Palms:
If left untreated, syphilis can progress to the second stage of infection. Symptoms of secondary syphilis typically manifest a few weeks after the chancres have healed and often include a rash. This rash can appear on the palms of the hands but may occur anywhere on the body, including the soles of the feet. It is usually non-itchy and may go away without treatment. However, this rash can be faint and easily mistaken for rashes caused by other conditions like psoriasis or eczema, leading even doctors to overlook its significance.
3. Swollen Glands:
During the primary stage of infection, syphilis can cause enlarged lymph nodes near the site of the sore. These swollen glands may persist as the infection progresses. Swollen glands are a sign that the body is fighting an infection and typically resolve on their own within two weeks. Common areas where swollen lymph nodes may be noticed include the neck, under the chin, armpits, and groin.
4. Hair Loss:
Though less common, hair loss can be a symptom of syphilis. It often presents as patchy hair loss on the head, beard, and eyebrows. Studies have shown that hair loss occurs in about 2.9 to 7% of cases of secondary syphilis. The hair loss pattern is typically non-scarring and can affect other areas of the scalp. Fortunately, with appropriate treatment for syphilis, the hair loss usually resolves within three months.
5. Flu-like Symptoms:
Flu-like symptoms can persist during the second stage of syphilis infection. These symptoms, such as fever and fatigue, may go away without treatment. However, if syphilis is left untreated, the disease can progress to a latent stage, where no visible signs or symptoms are present. This latent stage can last for years before potentially developing into tertiary syphilis, which can be fatal and affect multiple organ systems in the body.
In addition to these common signs, it’s important to note that syphilis can also affect the nervous system, visual system, and auditory/vestibular system. Neurosyphilis can cause severe headaches, muscle weakness, numbness, and mental changes. Ocular syphilis can result in eye pain, vision changes, and redness. Ostosyphilis may lead to hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and balance difficulties.
Syphilis is a bacterial infection primarily transmitted through sexual contact, but it can also be spread through sharing needles with an infected person. Infected pregnant women can pass the infection to their unborn babies, resulting in serious complications. Early detection and treatment are crucial to prevent further harm. Treatment usually involves antibiotic injections or a course of tablets. To reduce the risk of syphilis and other STIs, it is advisable to use condoms during sex and avoid sharing sex toys.
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