Houston Faces Alarming Increase in Syphilis Cases
An outbreak of syphilis has caused concern among health officials in Houston. According to official figures, cases of the sexually transmitted infection (STI) in women have surged by 128% since 2019. This spike has prompted health authorities to take urgent action to halt the spread of the disease, which can be potentially life-threatening if left untreated. Additionally, pregnant women can pass syphilis onto their unborn babies, putting them at a higher risk of miscarriage or stillbirth.
However, identifying symptoms of this bacterial infection can be challenging, as they are often mild and can easily go unnoticed. Syphilis is also known as “the great pretender” as its symptoms overlap with those of other STDs, which can lead healthcare professionals to overlook the warning signs.
To assist in raising awareness, MailOnline has revealed five key indicators of the disease, as identified by experts.
1. Multiple sores: Syphilis, primarily transmitted through sexual contact, is caused by a bacteria called Treponema pallidum. The initial sign is the appearance of a concave sore, known as a chancre, in the mouth or genital area. These typically manifest as firm and painless sores, with only one sore developing in many infected individuals. Chancres usually emerge around three weeks after exposure to the bacteria, at the point of entry into the body. Although chancres may resolve themselves within six weeks, treatment is still necessary.
2. Rash on the palms of hands: If left untreated, syphilis can advance to a second stage of infection, which is accompanied by secondary symptoms. A rash is a common manifestation during this stage and is often observed on the palms of the hands. However, it can also appear elsewhere on the body, including the soles of the feet. This rash is usually non-itchy and may resemble rashes caused by other conditions, making it easily mistaken or overlooked by doctors.
3. Swollen glands: In the primary stage of infection, syphilis can cause enlarged lymph nodes in the vicinity of the sore. These swollen glands can persist into the second stage as the bacteria continues to grow. Swollen glands signify that the body is fighting an infection and typically resolve themselves within two weeks. Areas where swollen lymph nodes may be noticeable include the neck, under the chin, armpits, and groin.
4. Hair loss: Although less common, hair loss can occur as a symptom of syphilis. This manifests as patchy hair loss on the scalp, beard, and eyebrows. However, research suggests that this type of hair loss is temporary and typically resolves within three months of receiving appropriate treatment for syphilis.
5. Flu-like symptoms: Another warning sign of syphilis is the presence of flu-like symptoms, which can persist into the second stage of infection. Without treatment, syphilis can progress to a latent stage, where no visible signs or symptoms are evident. This stage may last for years and, if left untreated, may lead to tertiary syphilis, which can result in organ damage and even be fatal.
Furthermore, syphilis can also affect the nervous system (neurosyphilis), visual system (ocular syphilis), and auditory and/or vestibular system (ostosyphilis) at any stage of infection.
Syphilis is a bacterial infection primarily transmitted through sexual contact or sharing needles with an infected person. It can be easily contracted by having close contact with an infected sore during vaginal, oral, or anal sex. Symptoms of syphilis are not always apparent and may eventually disappear. These may include painless sores or ulcers, red rashes on the palms or soles of the feet, small skin growths, white patches in the mouth, and flu-like symptoms.
If left untreated, syphilis can spread to the brain and other parts of the body, leading to severe consequences, including disabilities or death. Treatment typically involves antibiotic injections or a course of tablets. To reduce the risk of contracting syphilis, individuals are advised to use condoms during sexual activity, dental dams for oral sex, and refrain from sharing sex toys.
Awareness and understanding of the warning signs of syphilis are crucial in effectively combating the ongoing surge in cases in Houston. Health authorities are encouraging individuals to seek medical attention if they experience any of the aforementioned symptoms or suspect they may have been exposed to the infection.
Source: MailOnline