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Syphilis is one of the less common sexually transmitted infections in the UK, but the number of cases of new diagnoses has risen significantly in the past decade.
It is an infection which is relatively harmless if caught and treated early, but potentially fatal if left untreated.
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum. It can also be transmitted from mother to child during childbirth or through blood transfusions.
Syphilis progresses through stages: primary, secondary, and tertiary. Symptoms vary depending on the stage but can include painless sores (known as chancre) on the genitals, skin rash, swollen lymph nodes, and in later stages, serious damage to the heart, brain, and other organs.
Syphilis can be treated effectively with antibiotics if detected early, but untreated syphilis can lead to severe health problems.
In the first stage, known as primary syphilis, symptoms usually develop 2–3 weeks after infection. The main symptom is a chancre (a small, painless lesion).
It typically appears on the penis, vagina, or anal area, though it can also develop on or around the mouth, fingers, or buttocks. There may be just one sore or several. Additionally, swollen lymph glands may occur in your neck, underarms, or groin.
This initial stage of infection can last up to 8 weeks. Without treatment, it progresses to the second stage.
During the secondary stage of syphilis, various symptoms manifest. These include a rash that can appear anywhere on the body, but commonly on the palms or soles.
Small skin growths resembling genital warts may also develop around the vulva or anus. Inside the mouth, white patches may be observed. Flu-like symptoms such as fatigue, headache, joint pain, and fever can occur.
Additionally, swollen glands and patchy hair loss are typical manifestations during this stage of the infection.
The tertiary stage of syphilis typically develops over the course of several years and is characterised by systemic and potentially life-threatening symptoms.
These can include:
Treatment for syphilis is generally straightforward and involves a short course of antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. To receive the appropriate prescription, testing is necessary. The type of antibiotics administered depends on the duration of the infection.
For infections of two years or less, a penicillin injection into the buttock is typically administered. If allergic to penicillin, a 10 – 14 day course of tablets is prescribed.
In cases where the infection has persisted for more than two years, three penicillin injections are given at weekly intervals, or a month-long course of tablets is prescribed.
Following treatment, a blood test is recommended to verify that the infection has been successfully eradicated.
Antibiotics used to treat the infection are generally well-tolerated; however, possible side effects include nausea, diarrhoea, or allergic reactions. It is important to discuss any concerns or symptoms with your healthcare provider.
Remember, knowing that you are receiving treatment and that the infection is being addressed can also provide emotional relief and reduce anxiety associated with untreated syphilis. That is a major win.
Our London based doctors can help you understand any current symptoms and advise on any concerns regarding testing or test results. Please come and see us to discuss any aspect of your sexual health.
Use our online booking engine or book your test by giving us a call.
On the online booking engine select the “appointment type” you need.
You will be seen by one of our friendly doctors or trained clinicians.
Generally, no special preparation such as fasting is necessary for a syphilis blood test. You can eat and drink normally before the test. Although, drinking plenty of water before your test helps ensure you are well-hydrated, which can make it easier for a doctor to draw blood.
The test is a simple blood test and overall painless procedure where a blood sample (usually from your arm) is taken by a medical profession and sent for analysis.
Results from the syphilis test are typically available soon after testing. If the test indicates that treatment is necessary, our healthcare professionals will discuss the findings with you and prescribe the appropriate treatment regimen.
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