Syphilis
Syphilis is a serious bacterial infection.
It can be spread by vaginal, oral or anal sex. Although it is a lot less common today that it has been in the past, reports indicate that it is on the rise again in Ireland.
There are three phases of the disease that take place. If you leave it to get treatment until you reach the final stage any damage that has occurred can not be undone. 50% of infected people show no symptoms at all.
- First Stage - A sore on the penis, genitals, vulva, mouth or anal region which can be painless. Usually heals by itself in about a month.
- Second Stage - A few weeks later a general rash which may involve the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet.
- Third Stage - After this Syphilis may cause no symptoms for many years but if left untreated it can still damage your health. It can cause serious damage to your heart, brain, nervous system and other internal organs.
If it is diagnosed in the first stages, treatment is with a course of antibiotics. It can be diagnosed by blood tests.