During the primary stage of syphilis, a chancre sore may be seen at the site of infection. A rash, swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, weight loss, and achy joints may be noted during the secondary stage. During the latent stage of syphilis, most clients do not experience any signs or symptoms. The damage that occurs in the final stage, tertiary syphilis, is irreversible and can include tissue tumors, blindness, heart disease, and death.
