Syphilis
What is syphilis?
Syphilis is an infection caused by spirochete, which is a type of bacteria. Syphilis is mainly sexually transmitted and can cause long term problems with your nervous system and your heart and blood vessels.
How is syphilis transmitted?
Syphilis is mainly sexually transmitted. Syphilis can be transmitted in blood products, however it does not survive very long outside the body.
How do I know if I've got syphilis?
Syphilis can cause a multitude of symptoms. Initially syphilis can create a small painless ulcer on the genitals at the site of infection. Later on syphilis can go on to create rashes on the palms and soles of the feet, small wart-like things and headaches and other flu-like symptoms.
What are the long term effects of syphilis?
Syphilis can effect any part of the body in a variety of different ways. The long term complications of syphilis include problems with your brain and nervous system, and also weakness of the heart and blood vessels.
How can I avoid syphilis?
Syphilis is best avoided by making sure you practice safe sex and always use a condom.
What should I do if I get syphillis?
If you are diagnosed with syphilis, it's extremely important that you see a specialist syphilis doctor to get advice on treatment. If not properly treated, syphilis can lead to serious long-term complications. In the early stages, syphilis can be easily treated with some injections of an antibiotic.
