9. Neurosyphilis
As soon as you notice any of the above symptoms, it is important to seek treatment. Untreated syphilis may cause more severe symptoms. Neurosyphilis is one of the symptoms that can occur in the third stage. About 40% of people who have syphilis and are not treated for several years will develop this condition.
Syphilis can not only affect the brain but also the nervous system as a whole. This includes the spine cord. Neurosyphilis may cause severe health problems such as psychosis and dementia. It can also lead to seizures, atrophy, and abnormal gait. This symptom is treatable with penicillin but the length of time that an infection has been active can cause permanent damage. It is important to treat the infection as soon as the symptoms appear.