What are the effects of untreated syphilis?

If left untreated, syphilis can progress through four stages, each with its own set of symptoms:

Primary syphilis: This is the first stage of syphilis, and it usually develops within 10-90 days after exposure to the bacteria. The primary symptom of primary syphilis is a painless sore (called a chancre) at the site of infection. The chancre typically appears on the genitals, but it can also occur on other parts of the body, such as the mouth, rectum, or fingers. The chancre usually heals on its own within a few weeks, but the infection is still present in the body.

Secondary syphilis: This stage usually develops 2-8 weeks after the chancre heals. Symptoms of secondary syphilis can include:

- A widespread rash that can appear anywhere on the body

- Fever

- Swollen lymph nodes

- Sore throat

- Headache

- Muscle aches

- Fatigue

- Weight loss

Latent syphilis: This is a dormant stage of syphilis that can last for years or even decades. During this stage, the person may not have any symptoms, but the infection is still present in the body and can be transmitted to others.

Tertiary syphilis: This is the most severe stage of syphilis, and it can develop 10-30 years after the initial infection. Symptoms of tertiary syphilis can include:

- Skin lesions

- Bone pain

- Joint pain

- Blindness

- Paralysis

- Dementia

- Cardiovascular problems

- Kidney failure

- Death

Untreated syphilis can also increase the risk of other infections, such as HIV.