Dear dengr0rahs0sh0r,

Syphilis has several phases that may overlap. They do not always follow in the same sequence. Symptoms vary with each phase, but there are no symptoms most of the time.

In the primary phase, symptoms include

• painless sores or open, wet ulcers on the genitals, lips, mouth, breasts, or anus
• swollen glands

In the secondary phase, symptoms include

• rashes on the palms and soles of the feet
• mild fever
• fatigue
• sore throat
• hair loss
• weight loss
• swollen glands
• headache

The latent phase of syphilis has no symptoms. Latent phases occur between other phases.

If people aren't treated, a late phase can develop. During this phase, one-third of people with syphilis who were not treated in earlier phases suffer serious damage to the nervous system, heart, brain, or other organs, and death may result. There is not treatment for syphilis in the late phase.

Is it important that people with syphilis be treated early. People with syphilis can be easily treated with antibiotics, but damage caused by the disease in the later phases cannot be undone.

For more information, check out Sexually Transmitted Infections: Syphilis.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.