The bacterium Treponema pallidum causes syphilis, a sexually transmitted illness (STI). Despite the fact that it is a preventable and treatable illness, it is as yet a huge medical condition in many regions of the planet. Peruse on, as in this article we will investigate what syphilis is, its side effects, causes, analysis strategies and treatment choices.
What is Syphilis?
Syphilis is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum, transmitted mainly through unprotected sexual contact with an infected person. However, transmission also occurs from mother to fetus during pregnancy (congenital syphilis) or through direct contact with open wounds of an infected individual.
Congenital syphilis
Intrinsic syphilis happens when the sickness passes from a contaminated mother to her hatchling during pregnancy or labor. This can result in a number of serious complications for the baby, for example:
- Low weight at birth;
- Deafness;
- Blindness;
- Premature birth ;
- Fetal malformation;
- Skin problems;
- Respiratory changes;
- Jaundice ;
- Anemia;
- Neonatal death
It is important to emphasize that congenital syphilis does not always have symptoms in the first few months, so exams are crucial for the baby’s health. Furthermore, another important point is that a mother with syphilis can breastfeed the child, as long as there are no lesions on the breasts. If there is, it is necessary to temporarily stop breastfeeding until the injuries heal. In any case, it is recommended to test and treat the child with antibiotics, as well as discard all milk expressed from the breasts.
Prevention of congenital syphilis is essential and can be achieved through adequate prenatal screening, effective treatment of the mother during pregnancy and adequate medical monitoring. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to reduce the risk of complications arising from this form of syphilis transmission.
The disease has several phases and can present a wide range of symptoms, which makes it important to recognize and treat appropriately.
What are the signs and symptoms of syphilis?
The signs and side effects of syphilis differ as indicated by each phase of the illness, being isolated into:
– Primary syphilis
It appears as a painless sore in the genital, rectal or oral area, as it depends on where the bacteria enter.
It appears between 10 and 90 days after infection and is a wound rich in bacteria. It is painless, but it also does not itch, burn, have no pus and may be accompanied by lumps in the groin.
The sore disappears within a few weeks, but the infection continues to develop.
– Secondary syphilis
Characterized by rashes, mainly on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet between six weeks and six months after the initial sore appears. Different side effects of syphilis can incorporate fever, discomfort and joint torment, as well as an expanded number of patches all through the body.
Just like the primary one, the wounds and blemishes also disappear over time, bringing a false perception of healing.
– Latent syphilis
This type happens when the disease goes on yet there are no apparent side effects. Its term fluctuates from ongoing idle (under a year after disease) to late inactive (over a year after contamination)
– Tertiary syphilis
It can cause serious damage to internal organs, including the heart, brain and nerves, for example. This phase can appear between one year and up to 40 years after infection.
How is syphilis diagnosed?
According to the Ministry of Health, early conclusion is fundamental for the successful treatment of syphilis. In the general wellbeing framework, there are speedy, useful and simple to perform tests with brings about a limit of 30 minutes.
In addition, doctors can perform specific blood tests that detect the presence of antibodies or genetic material from the bacteria, as well as examine fluid from the lesions.
In the case of a positive test for pregnant women, due to the risk of transmission to the fetus, treatment can only be started with a positive test.
Accordingly, when you notice the side effects of syphilis, look for clinical consideration quickly for early conclusion and treatment.
Treatment and prevention of syphilis
Fortunately, syphilis is treatable and, with early analysis, it very well may be restored using anti-toxins, so focus on the side effects. Penicillin is the most well-known and powerful treatment for all phases of syphilis, yet the portion and length of treatment shift contingent upon the phase of contamination and other individual elements.
It is fundamental to recollect that, notwithstanding clinical treatment, anticipation is significant to forestall the spread of syphilis. Reliable utilization of condoms during sex is a fundamental measure to forestall disease. Consequently, assuming that you have had unprotected sexual contact or suspect that you are contaminated, seeing medical services proficient for assessment and guidance is fitting.