Syphilis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the bacterium Herpes testingTreponema pallidum, progresses through distinct stages, each characterized by varying symptoms. One of the first signs of syphilis is the appearance of a painless sore, known as a chancre, at the site where the bacteria entered the body. This sore typically develops around three weeks after exposure to the infection, though the timeframe can vary from 10 to 90 days.

Understanding Syphilis
Syphilis has been a known disease for centuries and has a notorious reputation due to its ability to mimic other conditions and progress through stages with varying symptoms. It is primarily spread through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. In rare cases, syphilis can also be transmitted through prolonged kissing or close bodily contact with an active lesion.

First Stage: Primary Syphilis
The first stage of syphilis begins with the appearance of a painless sore, called a chancre. This sore is typically small, round, and firm. It usually appears at the site where the bacterium entered the body, which is often the genitals, anus, rectum, or mouth. Chancres can also occur on the lips, fingers, or other parts of the body, depending on the mode of transmission. The sore is highly infectious and can last for 3 to 6 weeks before healing on its own, even without treatment.

Second Stage: Secondary Syphilis
If untreated, syphilis progresses to its secondary stage, which is characterized by a wide range of symptoms that can appear weeks to months after the chancre heals. These symptoms can include:

Skin rash: A non-itchy rash that can appear on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet, but can also affect other parts of the body.
Mucous membrane lesions: Sores in the mouth, vagina, or anus.
Fever: Mild fever may occur, along with swollen lymph nodes.
Fatigue: Feeling tired and lacking energy.
Headaches: Often described as dull and persistent.
Muscle aches: Aches and pains in the joints and muscles.
These symptoms may come and go over the course of a few weeks or even months. If syphilis is still not treated, it can progress to the latent and tertiary stages, which can cause severe damage to organs such as the heart, brain, nerves, eyes, and liver.