What are the symptoms of secondary stage syphilis?
Symptoms of secondary stage syphilis include:
- A rash: This is the most common symptom of secondary syphilis. The rash typically appears 2-8 weeks after the initial infection and can last up to 6 weeks. It can be found on the trunk, limbs, palms of the hands, and soles of the feet. The rash may be:
- Red or reddish-brown
- Macular (flat) or papular (raised)
- Round or oval in shape
- 2-10 mm in diameter
- Non-itchy or slightly itchy
- Flat warts: These may appear in moist areas of the body, such as the armpits, groin, or mouth.
- Condylomata lata: These are large, moist warts that occur in the genital area.
- Fever: A fever of up to 102°F (39°C) is common in secondary syphilis.
- Chills: Chills are often associated with a fever.
- Fatigue: People with secondary syphilis may feel tired and achy.
- Headache: A headache is a common symptom of secondary syphilis.
- Muscle aches and pains: Muscle aches and pains are common in secondary syphilis.
- Joint pain: Joint pain is a common symptom of secondary syphilis.
- Swollen lymph nodes: The lymph nodes in the neck, armpits, and groin may be swollen and tender in secondary syphilis.
- Sore throat: A sore throat is a common symptom of secondary syphilis.
- Loss of appetite: People with secondary syphilis may experience a loss of appetite.
- Weight loss: People with secondary syphilis may experience weight loss.
Secondary syphilis can cause a wide range of symptoms, and some people may experience only a few of these symptoms.