Syphilis symptoms

The symptoms of syphilis can vary greatly per person and per stage of the infection. Some people quickly experience clear symptoms, while others notice hardly anything for a long time. This is precisely why syphilis is sometimes only discovered late.

Syphilis usually progresses in different stages. Each stage has its own characteristics. Without treatment, the infection can develop further and ultimately cause serious health problems.

What are the first symptoms of syphilis?

The first sign of syphilis is usually a small, firm sore at the site where the bacteria entered the body. This sore is also called a hard chancre.

The sore is usually:

• Painless.
• Round or oval in shape.
• Firm at the edge.
• Present on the penis, vagina, anus, mouth, or throat.

Because the sore is usually painless and can disappear on its own, it is often overlooked.

Swollen lymph nodes

In addition to a sore, the lymph nodes near the infection can swell. This often happens in the groin, but can also occur in other places depending on where the infection is located.

The swelling is usually not painful.

Symptoms in the second stage

If syphilis is not treated, new symptoms may appear several weeks or months later.

Common symptoms include:

• Skin rash on the body.
• Spots on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
• Fever.
• Fatigue.
• Muscle and joint pain.
• Swollen lymph nodes.
• Hair loss in small patches.

These symptoms sometimes disappear on their own, but the bacteria remain in the body without treatment.

Hidden phase of syphilis

After the second stage, all symptoms can disappear. This is called the latent phase.

Although someone may feel completely healthy, the bacteria remain present. Without treatment, syphilis can still develop further years later.

Late symptoms of syphilis

If syphilis remains untreated for years, serious complications can arise.

Possible consequences include:

• Damage to the nervous system.
• Cardiovascular problems.
• Organ damage.
• Problems with vision or hearing.
• Neurological complaints.

These serious complications are less common nowadays because syphilis is usually detected and treated earlier.

Can you have syphilis without symptoms?

Yes. Especially during the latent phase, there are often no symptoms at all.

As a result, someone can be infected for years without knowing it. A test is therefore important if you have been at risk.

Are the symptoms the same in men and women?

The symptoms of syphilis are largely the same in men and women. However, the location where the first sore appears differs, depending on sexual contact.

As a result, the sore is sometimes noticed less quickly, for example when it is located in the vagina, anus, or mouth.

When should you get tested?

A syphilis test is advisable when:

• You have had unprotected sex.
• A sexual partner has tested positive for syphilis.
• You have a painless sore.
• You have an unexplained skin rash.
• You have had multiple sexual partners.

Even without symptoms, testing can be wise if you have been at risk.

Frequently asked questions about syphilis symptoms

What is the first symptom of syphilis?

Usually, a painless sore first appears at the site of infection.

Does a syphilis sore hurt?

No. The sore is usually painless.

Can you have syphilis without symptoms?

Yes. Especially in the latent phase, there are often no symptoms.

Do the symptoms disappear on their own?

Yes, some symptoms can disappear. However, this does not mean that the infection has been cured.

When should I take a test?

After risky sexual contact or if you have symptoms that could be consistent with syphilis.

Recognize the signs and don't wait too long

The symptoms of syphilis can seem harmless at first or even be completely absent. As a result, the infection is sometimes only discovered late. Have you been at risk or do you recognize one or more of these symptoms? Then a syphilis test is the best way to get clarity quickly and prevent serious complications.