“You don’t actually hear a lot about syphilis nowadays, very a lot the MySpace of STDs [sexually transmitted diseases]” is a line from Tom Wambsgans, a personality in HBO’s hit present ‘Succession’.

Sadly, the latest data on syphilis reveals in any other case. Infectious syphilis diagnoses elevated to eight,692 in 2022, up 15.2% in comparison with 2021 (7,543) and eight.1% in comparison with 2019 –that is the biggest annual variety of instances reported since 1948. It is a important rise in instances.

Many individuals might imagine that sexual transmitted infections (STIs) usually are usually not severe, however syphilis may cause irreversible long run well being results.

This weblog covers the danger elements for syphilis, its signs and symptoms, and the way it may be prevented.

How do folks catch syphilis?

The commonest option to purchase syphilis is thru sexual exercise, together with oral intercourse, with a companion who has syphilis. It is very important do not forget that sexual companions might not know they’ve syphilis, provided that some folks can have syphilis and never present any signs.

The extra folks you have got condomless intercourse with, the extra likelihood you have got of getting sexually transmitted infections like syphilis. Having unprotected oral, vaginal or anal intercourse makes the danger better.

It is also doable for syphilis to be handed on to an unborn child throughout being pregnant (often called congenital syphilis).

Syphilis can have an effect on anybody, however the largest variety of instances in England are in males. Homosexual, bisexual and different men-who-have-sex-with-men have increased charges of syphilis than folks of different genders or sexual orientations.

By practising safer intercourse – utilizing condoms for every type of penetrative intercourse and being examined for STIs earlier than having intercourse with somebody new – folks can tremendously scale back their danger of buying or transmitting syphilis.

What are the signs?

Syphilis is usually described as ‘The Nice Pretender’ given the early signs of syphilis might be delicate, might come and go and might be simply mistaken as indicators of different well being situations.

Many individuals affiliate STIs with particular signs resembling discharge or burning whereas peeing, however it might be very uncommon for syphilis to trigger both of those signs.

Syphilis sometimes follows a development of phases that may final for weeks, and even years:

The preliminary stage of syphilis typically presents as an ulcer on the location the place the an infection entered the physique. The ulcer might be on the genitals, across the anus or contained in the rectum, vagina, or mouth. The ulcer normally develops about three to 4 weeks after somebody has acquired syphilis and will final for a number of weeks. Glands in your neck, groin or armpits might swell.

As a result of the ulcer might be contained in the rectum, vagina or mouth, we all know folks can typically fail to spot it. After just a few weeks the ulcer can go away, even with out remedy. Nonetheless, the particular person nonetheless has syphilis and could also be susceptible to transmitting the an infection to sexual companions and of longer-term problems.

The following stage of an infection is characterised by common signs resembling a fever, complications and evening sweats amongst others. At this stage, folks might develop a rash over their physique, typically together with the palms of the fingers and soles of the ft. Different signs to look out for are patchy hair loss, white patches in your mouth, and sudden weight reduction.

If left untreated, syphilis can lead folks to extra severe well being problems together with probably irreversible and life-threatening issues together with your mind, coronary heart, bones, eyes or nerves.

Reassuringly although, syphilis is straightforward to diagnose utilizing a blood check or typically a swab from an ulcer or rash. Additionally it is simply cured with antibiotics.

How can I get examined?

Anybody who thinks they might have syphilis ought to get a syphilis check as quickly as doable.

You possibly can have STIs with out understanding, so common check-ups – notably in case you are having intercourse with a number of folks, and/or having condomless intercourse – are a good suggestion.

It is suggested that homosexual, bisexual and different men-who-have-sex-with-men (GBMSM) ought to have checks for HIV and STIs yearly or each three months, if having condomless intercourse with new or informal companions. Annual checks are advisable for different sexually energetic people with new companions.

Testing is free and confidential, and it is best to get examined even in case you are not displaying any signs.

Depending on where you live you could possibly get a discreetly packaged, letterbox pleasant STI self-sampling kit despatched freed from cost to your house, or attend your local sexual health clinic to request an STI check. Nobody else, together with your GP, will likely be informed about your go to.

What’s the remedy?

Syphilis is straightforward to deal with and remedy with antibiotics, however untreated syphilis won’t go away by itself.

The antibiotics are normally given by a single injection or a brief course of tablets.

All the time take your physician or nurse’s recommendation with regards to taking antibiotics. Bear in mind by no means share antibiotics or maintain for later use.

You want to keep away from any sexual contact – anal, vaginal or oral – till at the very least two weeks after your remedy has completed. It will ensure the an infection doesn’t return or unfold.

Folks you’ve had intercourse with additionally must get checked. This may be dealt with confidentially – a clinic can allow them to know if you happen to don’t wish to. In the event that they know, they are often handled.

Whereas testing and remedy is offered, given the very severe long-term well being issues that syphilis can result in if left unchecked, it’s necessary to get examined and follow safer intercourse to guard ourselves from catching STIs within the first place.