Spotting the signs: Syphilis symptoms at every stage
Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that can present a wide range of symptoms, depending on the stage of the infection. It’s often called “the great imitator” because its symptoms can resemble those of other conditions, making it difficult to diagnose without testing. Understanding the symptoms at each stage of syphilis is crucial for timely detection and treatment, which can prevent the infection from progressing to more severe stages.
Stages of syphilis and their symptoms
Primary syphilis
The first sign of syphilis is usually a small, painless sore called a chancre. This sore appears at the site where the syphilis bacteria entered the body, often on the genitals, anus, or mouth.¹ Because chancres are typically painless and may be located in areas not easily seen, many people do not realize they are infected. The sore usually heals on its own within three to six weeks, but without treatment, the infection remains in the body and progresses to the next stage.²
Early detection is essential at this stage, and testing options like the First to Know Syphilis Test provide a quick, convenient way to confirm whether syphilis is present, allowing for timely treatment.
Secondary syphilis
If syphilis isn’t treated during the primary stage, it progresses to the secondary stage, which is characterized by more noticeable symptoms. The most common sign of secondary syphilis is a rash that may appear on the palms of the hands or soles of the feet, but it can also spread to other areas of the body.³ Other symptoms may include fever, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, headaches, muscle aches, and fatigue.⁴ These symptoms may come and go over several weeks, but without treatment, the infection will continue to develop.
Since these symptoms can be mistaken for other illnesses, regular testing is important, particularly for sexually active individuals. Testing solutions, like the First To Know Syphilis Test, can help provide peace of mind by delivering quick results with minimal waiting.
Latent syphilis
After the secondary stage, syphilis can enter a latent (or hidden) stage, during which no visible symptoms are present. Although the infection is still in the body, people in this stage may not experience any outward signs, and this stage can last for years if untreated.⁵ Syphilis is less likely to be contagious during the latent stage, but it can still cause serious damage over time if left untreated.
Regular testing, even in the absence of symptoms, can help catch syphilis in its latent stage. The First to Know Syphilis Test is an ideal option for those seeking reliable and easy-to-use testing methods during routine health checks.
Tertiary syphilis
If syphilis continues untreated, it can progress to tertiary syphilis, which can occur years or even decades after the initial infection. Tertiary syphilis can cause severe damage to the heart, brain, nerves, and other organs.⁶ It can also lead to conditions like neurosyphilis, which affects the brain and spinal cord, and cardiovascular syphilis, which impacts the heart and blood vessels.⁷ Tertiary syphilis is life-threatening and requires immediate medical intervention.
When to get tested
Early detection is key to preventing the progression of syphilis to more dangerous stages. Testing is crucial for sexually active individuals, especially those who may not have noticed early symptoms like chancres or rashes. Syphilis can be treated effectively with antibiotics, particularly when caught in the primary or secondary stages, but early testing is critical for successful treatment outcomes.⁸
If you suspect you may have been exposed to syphilis or are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, it’s important to get tested right away. The First to Know Syphilis Test offers a quick, accurate, and convenient way to test for syphilis. The earlier you detect syphilis, the sooner you can begin treatment and prevent long-term health issues.
Take charge of your health today by getting tested for syphilis. Early detection and treatment can make all the difference in preventing serious complications.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Syphilis – Detailed Fact Sheet,” CDC.gov.
- Mayo Clinic, “Syphilis Overview,” MayoClinic.org.
- World Health Organization (WHO), “Syphilis Symptoms and Stages,” WHO.int.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Secondary Syphilis Symptoms,” CDC.gov.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Latent Syphilis Information,” CDC.gov.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH), “Tertiary Syphilis – Overview,” NIH.gov.
- Mayo Clinic, “Neurosyphilis and Cardiovascular Syphilis,” MayoClinic.org.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “Syphilis Testing and Treatment,” CDC.gov.