Ano ang syphilis? What to know about symptoms, testing and care

The phrase “ano ang syphilis” means “what is syphilis?” It can spread through direct contact with a syphilis sore during vaginal, anal or oral sex, and during pregnancy to a baby. A person may have no obvious symptoms, so a blood test and clinical assessment are important after possible exposure.

Early syphilis may present with a firm, often unnoticed sore at the contact site. A later phase can cause a rash, including on the palms or soles, swollen glands, fever, tiredness or patchy hair loss. Symptoms may then disappear even though the infection remains in the body.

Without treatment, syphilis can eventually damage the brain, nerves, eyes, heart or blood vessels. It does not spread through casual contact such as sharing food, hugging or using the same toilet seat.

Arrange an STI assessment if you notice a genital, anal or mouth sore, develop an unexplained rash, have a partner diagnosed with syphilis or think you were exposed. Testing commonly uses a blood sample; a clinician may also examine a sore or arrange tests for other sexually transmitted infections.

Take prescribed antibiotics exactly as directed and attend follow-up blood tests so the clinician can check the response. Avoid sexual contact until your clinician says it is safe to resume, and ensure current or recent partners are informed, tested and treated when advised. Previous treatment does not prevent a new infection.

Seek urgent medical assessment for sudden vision changes, eye pain, new hearing loss, severe headache, confusion, weakness, numbness or difficulty walking. These features can signal involvement of the eyes, ears, brain or nerves and should not wait for a routine appointment.

Contact a healthcare professional promptly if you are pregnant or could be pregnant and may have been exposed. Early testing and treatment help protect both the pregnant person and baby.

Ask which tests are suitable for the timing of your exposure, whether repeat testing is needed, what treatment you will receive, when sexual contact can safely resume and which partners should be notified. Also mention pregnancy, medication allergies, vision or hearing symptoms, and any previous syphilis treatment.