Herpes

Herpes

The symptoms of herpes can vary depending on the location and severity of the infection. Some common signs and symptoms include:

• Oral herpes (HSV-1):

  • Cold sores or fever blisters on or around the mouth

  • Tingling or itching sensation before the blisters appear

  • Pain or discomfort during outbreaks

  • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck

• Genital herpes (HSV-2):

  • Small, painful blisters or open sores on the genital area, buttocks, or thighs

  • Itching, tingling, or burning sensation before the blisters appear

  • Pain or discomfort during outbreaks

  • Flu-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, and swollen glands

Symptoms

Causes

Treatment

• Antiviral medications: Oral antiviral drugs, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir, can be prescribed to alleviate symptoms, speed up healing, and reduce the risk of transmission.

• Suppressive therapy: For individuals with frequent or severe outbreaks, daily antiviral medication may be recommended to suppress the virus and prevent or reduce the frequency of recurrences.

• Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help alleviate pain and discomfort associated with outbreaks.

• Hygiene and self-care: Keeping the affected areas clean and dry can help prevent secondary infections and promote healing. Avoiding triggers, such as excessive sun exposure, stress, or certain foods, may also help reduce the frequency of outbreaks.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan for herpes. Additionally, practicing safe sex, using barrier methods (such as condoms or dental dams), and disclosing your herpes status to sexual partners can help reduce the risk of transmission.

Herpes is primarily transmitted through direct contact with an infected person during active outbreaks. The virus can enter the body through breaks in the skin or mucous membranes. Common modes of transmission include:

• Oral-to-oral contact (HSV-1): Sharing utensils, kissing, or oral sex with an infected individual during an outbreak can lead to oral herpes transmission.

• Sexual contact (HSV-2): Having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected person, particularly during an outbreak or when there are visible sores or symptoms, can result in genital herpes transmission.

• Vertical transmission: Pregnant people with genital herpes can pass the virus to their babies during childbirth, which can lead to severe complications in newborns.

It is important to note that herpes can also be transmitted even when there are no visible sores or symptoms present. This is known as asymptomatic shedding.

Herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types of herpes viruses: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes, which manifests as cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth, while HSV-2 primarily causes genital herpes. However, both types can infect the oral or genital areas.

BY: VAGINAL HEALTH

UPDATED: 13/10/23

Herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) typically manifesting with sores around the mouth and genitalia.

While there is no cure for herpes, antiviral medications can help manage outbreaks, reduce symptoms, and decrease the frequency and duration of recurrences. Treatment options include:

Safe Sex . Sexually Transmitted Infections