Syphilis is one of the oldest and most dangerous sexually transmitted infections (STIs). A common misconception is that syphilis goes away on its own, especially when the symptoms disappear. But is this really the case? In this article, we explain why syphilis does not cure itself, the risks associated with untreated syphilis, and what you can do to prevent it.
First symptoms disappear on their own, but not the disease
The first sign of syphilis is often a painless ulcer on the mucous membrane, usually near the genitals, anus or mouth. This is also called a shanker. Although this ulcer disappears on its own after one to three months, this does not mean that the infection is over. The bacterium that causes syphilis, Treponema pallidum, remains active in your body.
This is where many people get it wrong: the symptoms disappear temporarily, but the disease itself remains dormant. Without treatment, syphilis can spread throughout your body, causing serious and irreversible damage.
The dormant phase: a silent enemy
After the initial symptoms disappear, syphilis often enters a so-called dormant phase. During this phase, you don't experience any symptoms, but the bacteria are still present. This is a dangerous phase, because it is easy to think that the infection has ‘disappeared on its own’, while it still causes damage and is transmissible to others.
The fact that there are no visible symptoms is what makes syphilis so insidious. The bacteria can proliferate unnoticed and eventually reach the third and fourth stages, where serious complications occur.
Long-term damage without treatment
When syphilis goes untreated, the infection can have serious consequences years later. In the third and fourth stages, the bacteria attack vital organs such as the heart, brain and nervous system. This can lead to complications such as:
- Paralysis
- Blindness
- Dementia
- Severe organ damage
- In some cases, even death
These late stages can still be treated, but the damage to your organs is often irreversible. Preventing these serious consequences is only possible by timely intervention.
What should you do if you suspect syphilis?
If you suspect you have syphilis, even if the symptoms have disappeared, it is essential to get tested. Syphilis is easily treated with antibiotics, especially in the early stages. The longer you wait, the greater the risk of serious complications.
