subject: Syphlilis and its Developmental Levels [print this page] Syphlilis and its Developmental Levels Syphlilis and its Developmental Levels
Syphilis is an example of a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the bacteria generally known as Treoponema Pallidum. This kind of bacterium attacks the mouth, lips, anus and genitalia. It's mainly transmitted via sex, though there are also cases of congenital syphilis. Such transfer occurs when an STD-afflicted mother gives birth to a baby by means of normal labor. People with many sexual partners and prostitutes are the ones greatly vulnerable to syphilis infection.
In early stages, Syphilis doesn't reveal any considerable symptoms, even so if not treated it can damage different body parts that would range from the eyes, bones, brain and also the heart. Syphilis is called the "Great Imitator" for a number of its symptoms are sometimes wrongly diagnosed to other types of illnesses. You can find three developmental stages of Syphilis in which every one of them shows distinctive symptoms.
Primary syphilis or the first stage takes place 2-12 weeks after the transmission of the bacterium. Chancre or skin lesions will start to show up on the body components that have a direct contact with the bacteria. It can be noticed on the mouth after oral sexual intercourse, within the anus after doing anal sex, and inside the genitalia after vaginal sexual contact. It is also present on any other body part which has in-contact with the bacteria. The chancre usually heals on its own and can last for around 4-6 weeks. The primary syphilis will progress to the second phase if not taken care of.
The secondary period of syphilis usually begins within 6-8 weeks right after it had progressed from the primary syphilis. It's during this period of the syphilis wherein the bacterium has reached the blood and has been transferred throughout the different areas of the body. Several little red rashes will then be seen within the palms and extremities, but they are usually not itchy. It is identified as condylomata when it starts to appear on the moist regions of the body just like the mouth and the genitals. The fact that bacteria stay on moist parts, these lesions or rashes are filled up with infectious bacteria. It's at the secondary stage wherein the infected individual is highly contagious. It can then be accompanied by other kinds of symptoms like headache, fever, sore throat, swelling of lymph nodes, muscle and joint pain, and weight-loss.
The secondary syphilis which if not treated will progress into tertiary syphilis. Tertiary syphilis happens 1-10 years following being infected. In rare cases, the ailment emerge after 50 years of its initial infection. Granulomas will begin to develop at this time. These are inflammations that seem to be like soft and tumor-like balls. They can show up in any area of the body that includes the skeleton. Among the neurological troubles brought by tertiary syphilis is neurosyphilis. This can be followed by hyperactive reflexes and changes in persona. Cardiovascular complications such as syphilitic aortitis, aortic aneurysm and aortic regurgitation will also be likely to develop. The disease could complicate the coronary arteries too by means of narrowing the vessels in which the blood passes.
Obviously, you shouldn't allow the syphilis to completely develop. The most important step is steer clear of it in the first place. Avail right away of proper treatment when the symptoms show itself. Get yourself tested in your local STD clinic right now.
