Syphilis, a highly contagious sexually transmitted bacterial infection that progresses through stages, poses a significant health threat if left untreated. According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the reported cases of syphilis in all stages have surged by a staggering 74% since 2017, with a total of over 176,000 cases reported in 2021.
The CDC has attributed this alarming increase in syphilis cases to disruptions in STI-related prevention and care services caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Preethika Shetty, a respected Consultant Obstetrician & Gynecologist at Motherhood Hospitals, Kharadi, emphasizes the importance of understanding the causes of syphilis in order to prevent its transmission and manage its spread.
Understanding Syphilis
Dr. Shetty highlights that unprotected sexual activity with an infected individual is one of the primary causes of syphilis. This includes engaging in vaginal, anal, or oral sex without using condoms or dental dams. Sharing needles with an infected person also contributes to the spread of syphilis. Moreover, an untreated syphilis infection in a pregnant woman can be transmitted to her unborn child, leading to congenital syphilis.
To combat these modes of transmission, practicing safe sex and avoiding risky behaviors become paramount in preventing both contracting and disseminating syphilis.
Stages of Syphilis
Dr. Shetty elucidates the stages of syphilis to raise awareness about its symptoms:
1. Primary Syphilis: This phase often begins with a painless sore or ulcer at the infection site. While symptoms may not be immediately apparent, this soreness is highly contagious and easily transmitted through sexual contact.
2. Secondary Syphilis: Progressing into this stage, individuals might experience symptoms mistaken for common ailments, including rash-like patches on the skin, fever, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, sore throat, and hair loss. These symptoms can come and go over weeks or months before disappearing.
3. Latent Syphilis: In this stage, there are no visible symptoms. However, the bacteria remain in the body, potentially leading to the final stage.
4. Tertiary Syphilis: The last stage of syphilis can result in severe organ damage, affecting the heart, brain, nerves, and bones. This stage can be life-threatening.
Preventing Syphilis
Dr. Shetty provides preventive measures not only for syphilis but also for other STIs:
- Practice Safe Sex: Proper and consistent condom use can significantly reduce the risk of syphilis transmission.
- Regular Testing: Especially for sexually active individuals with multiple partners, routine STI testing is crucial. Early detection facilitates prompt treatment.
- Limit Sexual Partners: Reducing partners can lower exposure risk to syphilis and other STIs.
- Vaccination: While no syphilis vaccine exists, vaccination against other STIs like HPV can prevent co-infections that may worsen syphilis.
- Open Communication: Honest discussions with sexual partners about STI history, testing, and vaccination can help prevent syphilis spread.
- Awareness: Education is vital in protecting against STIs. Staying informed about different types of STIs and risk factors empowers individuals to make informed decisions.
Treating Syphilis
Syphilis is treated with antibiotics, usually penicillin. Treatment type and duration depend on the stage of infection. Although most effective in early stages, treatment can still be successful in later stages. Completing the prescribed antibiotic course, even if symptoms vanish, is essential. Follow-up testing ensures complete recovery.
Conclusion
Syphilis is a serious STI with potentially severe health complications if untreated. However, with awareness, prevention measures, regular testing, and timely treatment, syphilis can be managed and even prevented. Timely medical care is crucial for those who suspect syphilis or any other STI. By recognizing the initial symptoms, individuals can seek early diagnosis and treatment, promoting better outcomes and overall sexual health.
