What are the common signs and symptoms of genital herpes. How is genital herpes diagnosed. What treatment options are available for genital herpes. Can genital herpes be asymptomatic. How can you prevent the spread of genital herpes.

Understanding Genital Herpes: Causes and Transmission

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of HSV: HSV-1 and HSV-2. While HSV-1 is typically associated with oral herpes, it can also cause genital herpes. HSV-2 is primarily responsible for genital herpes infections.

The virus is transmitted through skin-to-skin contact, usually during sexual activity. This includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It’s important to note that herpes can be transmitted even when no visible symptoms are present, a phenomenon known as asymptomatic shedding.

How does herpes spread?

Herpes spreads through direct contact with infected skin or mucous membranes. This can occur during:

• Sexual intercourse (vaginal, anal, or oral)
• Kissing
• Sharing of sex toys
• Non-sexual skin-to-skin contact

It’s crucial to understand that condoms do not provide complete protection against herpes transmission, as the virus can be present on areas not covered by a condom.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Genital Herpes

Genital herpes symptoms can vary widely from person to person. Some individuals may experience severe outbreaks, while others may have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. This variability in symptom presentation can make diagnosis challenging.

What are the most common symptoms of genital herpes?

The most common symptoms of genital herpes include:

1. Small, painful blisters on the genitals, rectum, or mouth
2. Itching or tingling sensation in the genital or anal area
3. Pain or discomfort during urination
4. Flu-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes
5. Painful ulcers that develop from ruptured blisters

These symptoms typically appear within 2-12 days after exposure to the virus. The initial outbreak is often the most severe and may last for several weeks.

Can genital herpes be asymptomatic?

Yes, genital herpes can be asymptomatic. In fact, many people with genital herpes are unaware they have the infection because they never experience noticeable symptoms. This phenomenon, known as asymptomatic infection, contributes significantly to the spread of the virus.

Studies suggest that up to 80% of individuals with genital herpes may be unaware of their infection due to minimal or no symptoms. However, these individuals can still transmit the virus to their sexual partners, highlighting the importance of regular STI testing and open communication with sexual partners.

Diagnosing Genital Herpes: Methods and Challenges

Accurate diagnosis of genital herpes is crucial for proper management and prevention of transmission. Healthcare providers use various methods to diagnose genital herpes, each with its own advantages and limitations.

How is genital herpes typically diagnosed?

Genital herpes is typically diagnosed through a combination of physical examination and laboratory tests. The most common diagnostic methods include:

• Visual examination: A healthcare provider examines the affected area for characteristic signs of herpes lesions.
• Viral culture: A sample is taken from an active lesion and tested for the presence of the virus.
• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test: This highly sensitive test detects the genetic material of the virus in a sample.
• Blood tests: These can detect antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2, indicating past or current infection.

It’s important to note that blood tests cannot determine the location of the infection, only whether an individual has been exposed to the virus.

Why can diagnosing genital herpes be challenging?

Diagnosing genital herpes can be challenging for several reasons:

1. Asymptomatic cases: Many infected individuals show no symptoms, making diagnosis difficult.
2. Similarity to other conditions: Herpes symptoms can resemble those of other STIs or skin conditions.
3. Timing of tests: Viral cultures and PCR tests are most effective when lesions are present.
4. False negatives: Blood tests may not detect antibodies in recently acquired infections.

These challenges underscore the importance of comprehensive sexual health screenings and open communication with healthcare providers.

Treatment Options for Genital Herpes: Managing Symptoms and Reducing Transmission

While there is no cure for genital herpes, various treatment options can help manage symptoms, reduce the frequency of outbreaks, and lower the risk of transmission to sexual partners.

What are the primary treatment options for genital herpes?

The main treatment options for genital herpes include:

• Antiviral medications: These are the cornerstone of herpes treatment and include drugs like acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir.
• Pain relief medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort during outbreaks.
• Topical treatments: Creams or ointments may provide relief from itching and pain.
• Lifestyle modifications: Stress reduction, proper nutrition, and adequate sleep can help manage outbreaks.

Antiviral medications can be prescribed for episodic treatment (taken during outbreaks) or as suppressive therapy (taken daily to reduce outbreak frequency and viral shedding).

How effective are antiviral medications in managing genital herpes?

Antiviral medications are highly effective in managing genital herpes. They can:

1. Shorten the duration of outbreaks
2. Reduce the severity of symptoms
3. Decrease the frequency of recurrences
4. Lower the risk of transmission to sexual partners

Studies have shown that daily suppressive therapy with antiviral medications can reduce the risk of transmission to uninfected partners by up to 50%. However, it’s important to note that these medications do not eliminate the risk of transmission entirely.

Living with Genital Herpes: Coping Strategies and Lifestyle Adjustments

A genital herpes diagnosis can be emotionally challenging, but with proper management and support, individuals can lead healthy, fulfilling lives. Developing effective coping strategies and making appropriate lifestyle adjustments are key to managing the condition.

How can individuals cope with a genital herpes diagnosis?

Coping with a genital herpes diagnosis often involves:

• Educating oneself about the condition
• Seeking support from healthcare providers, counselors, or support groups
• Practicing stress management techniques
• Maintaining open communication with sexual partners
• Focusing on overall health and well-being

It’s important to remember that genital herpes is a manageable condition and does not define an individual’s worth or ability to have fulfilling relationships.

What lifestyle adjustments can help manage genital herpes?

Several lifestyle adjustments can help manage genital herpes and reduce the frequency of outbreaks:

1. Maintaining a healthy diet rich in nutrients that support immune function
2. Getting regular exercise to boost overall health and reduce stress
3. Ensuring adequate sleep and rest
4. Avoiding known triggers, such as excessive sun exposure or certain foods
5. Wearing loose, comfortable clothing during outbreaks
6. Practicing safe sex and using barrier methods to reduce transmission risk

These adjustments, combined with appropriate medical treatment, can significantly improve quality of life for individuals with genital herpes.

Preventing the Spread of Genital Herpes: Strategies and Considerations

Preventing the spread of genital herpes is crucial for public health and individual well-being. While complete prevention is challenging due to asymptomatic shedding, several strategies can significantly reduce transmission risk.

What are effective strategies for preventing genital herpes transmission?

Effective strategies for preventing genital herpes transmission include:

• Consistent use of barrier methods (condoms, dental dams) during sexual activity
• Abstaining from sexual contact during outbreaks
• Taking suppressive antiviral therapy to reduce viral shedding
• Open communication with sexual partners about STI status
• Regular STI testing and healthcare check-ups
• Avoiding sharing personal items that may come into contact with infected areas

It’s important to note that while these strategies can significantly reduce risk, they cannot eliminate it entirely due to the nature of the virus.

How effective are condoms in preventing herpes transmission?

Condoms are an important tool in preventing herpes transmission, but their effectiveness is limited. Studies suggest that consistent condom use can reduce the risk of herpes transmission by about 30-50%. However, condoms do not provide complete protection because:

1. Herpes can be present on areas not covered by condoms
2. Condoms can break or be used incorrectly
3. Asymptomatic shedding can occur in areas not covered by condoms

Despite these limitations, condoms remain an essential part of a comprehensive prevention strategy, offering protection against herpes and other STIs.

The Impact of Genital Herpes on Sexual and Reproductive Health

Genital herpes can have significant implications for sexual and reproductive health. Understanding these impacts is crucial for affected individuals and their partners to make informed decisions about their health and relationships.

How does genital herpes affect sexual relationships?

Genital herpes can affect sexual relationships in several ways:

• Anxiety about transmitting the virus to partners
• Decreased sexual desire or activity due to outbreaks or fear of transmission
• Need for open communication about STI status with partners
• Potential stigma and misconceptions about the condition
• Changes in sexual practices to reduce transmission risk

However, with proper management, education, and open communication, many individuals with genital herpes maintain healthy and satisfying sexual relationships.

What are the implications of genital herpes for pregnancy and childbirth?

Genital herpes can have important implications for pregnancy and childbirth:

1. Risk of neonatal herpes: If a mother has an active outbreak during delivery, there’s a risk of transmitting the virus to the newborn.
2. Need for cesarean delivery: Women with active genital lesions at the time of delivery may require a cesarean section to prevent transmission.
3. Antiviral therapy during pregnancy: Pregnant women with genital herpes may be prescribed antiviral medication to reduce the risk of outbreaks and transmission.
4. Regular monitoring: Pregnant women with genital herpes require close monitoring throughout pregnancy and near delivery.

It’s crucial for pregnant women with genital herpes to work closely with their healthcare providers to manage the condition and minimize risks to the baby.

Genital herpes: Signs and symptoms

Diseases & conditions

• 
  
  Coronavirus Resource Center
  
• 
  
  Acne
  
• 
  
  Eczema
  
• 
  
  Hair loss
  
• 
  
  Psoriasis
  
• 
  
  Rosacea
  
• 
  
  Skin cancer
  
• 
  
  A to Z diseases
  
• 
  
  A to Z videos
  

• DIY acne treatment
• How dermatologists treat
• Skin care: Acne-prone skin
• Causes
• Is it really acne?

• Types & treatments
• Childhood eczema
• Adult eczema
• Insider secrets

• Types of hair loss
• Treatment for hair loss
• Causes of hair loss
• Hair care matters
• Insider secrets

• What is psoriasis
• Diagnosis & treatment
• Skin, hair & nail care
• Triggers
• Insider secrets

• What is rosacea
• Treatment
• Skin care & triggers
• Insider secrets

• Types and treatment
• Find skin cancer
• Prevent skin cancer
• Raise awareness
• Español

Featured

Reduce summertime rosacea flare-ups

The sun, heat, and humidity can all trigger rosacea and lead to flare-ups. Find out how you can enjoy summer while reducing flare-ups.

JAK inhibitors: A newer type of medication

JAK inhibitors are helping patients with alopecia areata, eczema/atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and vitiligo. Here’s what you need to know.

Everyday care

• 
  
  Skin care basics
  
• 
  
  Skin care secrets
  
• 
  
  Injured skin
  
• 
  
  Itchy skin
  
• 
  
  Sun protection
  
• 
  
  Hair & scalp care
  
• 
  
  Nail care secrets
  

• Basic skin care
• Dry, oily skin
• Hair removal
• Tattoos and piercings

• Anti-aging skin care
• For your face
• For your skin routine
• Preventing skin problems

• Bites & stings
• Burns, cuts, & other wounds

• Itch relief
• Poison ivy, oak & sumac
• Rashes

• Shade, clothing, and sunscreen
• Sun damage and your skin
• Aprenda a proteger su piel del sol

• Your hair
• Your scalp

• Nail care basics
• Manicures & pedicures

Featured

Practice Safe Sun

Everyone’s at risk for skin cancer. These dermatologists’ tips tell you how to protect your skin.

Relieve uncontrollably itchy skin

Find out what may be causing the itch and what can bring relief.

Darker Skin Tones

• 
  
  Skin care secrets
  
• 
  
  Hair care
  
• 
  
  Hair loss
  
• 
  
  Diseases & Conditions
  

• Acne
• Dark spots
• Dry skin
• Light spots
• Razor bumps

• Caring for Black hair
• Scalp psoriasis
• Weaves & extensions

• Central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia
• Frontal fibrosing alopecia
• Hairstyles that pull can cause hair loss

• Acanthosis nigricans
• Acne keloidalis nuchae
• Hidradenitis suppurativa
• Keloid scars
• Lupus and your skin
• Sarcoidosis and your skin
• Skin cancer
• Vitiligo
• More diseases & conditions

Featured

Fade dark spots

Find out why dark spots appear and what can fade them.

Untreatable razor bumps or acne?

If you have what feels like razor bumps or acne on the back of your neck or scalp, you may have acne keloidalis nuchae. Find out what can help.

Cosmetic treatments

• 
  
  Your safety
  
• 
  
  Age spots & dark marks
  
• 
  
  Cellulite & fat removal
  
• 
  
  Hair removal
  
• 
  
  Scars & stretch marks
  
• 
  
  Wrinkles
  
• 
  
  Younger-looking skin
  

Featured

Laser hair removal

You can expect permanent results in all but one area. Do you know which one?

Scar treatment

If you want to diminish a noticeable scar, know these 10 things before having laser treatment.

Botox

It can smooth out deep wrinkles and lines, but the results aren’t permanent. Here’s how long botox tends to last.

Public health programs

• 
  
  Skin cancer awareness
  
• 
  
  Free skin cancer screenings
  
• 
  
  Kids’ camp
  
• 
  
  Good Skin Knowledge
  
• 
  
  Shade Structure grants
  
• 
  
  Skin Cancer, Take a Hike!™
  
• 
  
  Awareness campaigns
  
• 
  
  Flyers & posters
  
• 
  
  Get involved
  

• Lesson plans and activities
• Community grants

Featured

Free materials to help raise skin cancer awareness

Use these professionally produced online infographics, posters, and videos to help others find and prevent skin cancer.

Dermatologist-approved lesson plans, activities you can use

Free to everyone, these materials teach young people about common skin conditions, which can prevent misunderstanding and bullying.

Find a dermatologist

• 
  
  Find a dermatologist
  
• 
  
  What is a dermatologist?
  
• 
  
  FAAD: What it means
  
• 
  
  How to select a dermatologist
  
• 
  
  Your digital health
  
• 
  
  Prior authorization
  
• 
  
  Dermatologists team up to improve patient care
  

• Finding accurate health information
• Health apps
• Wearable medical devices
• Telemedicine
• Protect your information

Featured

Find a Dermatologist

You can search by location, condition, and procedure to find the dermatologist that’s right for you.

What is a dermatologist?

A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in treating the skin, hair, and nails. Dermatologists care for people of all ages.

STD Facts – Genital Herpes

People who are sexually active can get genital herpes, a common sexually transmitted disease (STD). This fact sheet answers basic questions about genital herpes.

What is genital herpes?

Genital herpes is an STD caused by two types of viruses – herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).

What is oral herpes?

HSV-1 often causes oral herpes, which can result in cold sores or fever blisters on or around the mouth. However, most people with oral herpes do not have any symptoms. Most people with oral herpes get it during childhood or young adulthood from non-sexual contact with saliva.

Is there a link between genital herpes and oral herpes?

Yes. Oral herpes caused by HSV-1 can spread from the mouth to the genitals through oral sex. This is why some cases of genital herpes are due to HSV-1.

How common is genital herpes?

Genital herpes is common in the United States. In 2018, CDC estimates show there were 572,000 new genital herpes infections in the United States among people aged 14 to 49.¹

How is genital herpes spread?

You can get genital herpes by having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the infection. You can get herpes if you have contact with:

• A herpes sore;
• Saliva from a partner with an oral herpes infection;
• Genital fluids from a partner with a genital herpes infection;
• Skin in the oral area of a partner with oral herpes; or
• Skin in the genital area of a partner with genital herpes.

You also can get genital herpes from a sex partner who does not have a visible sore or is unaware of their infection. It is also possible to get genital herpes if you receive oral sex from a partner with oral herpes.

You will not get herpes from toilet seats, bedding, or swimming pools. You also will not get it from touching objects, such as silverware, soap, or towels.

If you have more questions about herpes, consider discussing your concerns with a healthcare provider.

How do I know if I have genital herpes?

Most people with genital herpes have no symptoms or have very mild symptoms. Mild symptoms may go unnoticed or be mistaken for other skin conditions like a pimple or ingrown hair. Because of this, most people do not know they have a herpes infection.

Herpes sores usually appear as one or more blisters on or around the genitals, rectum or mouth. This is known as having an “outbreak”. The blisters break and leave painful sores that may take a week or more to heal. Flu-like symptoms (e.g., fever, body aches, or swollen glands) also may occur during the first outbreak.

People who experience an initial outbreak of herpes can have repeated outbreaks, especially if they have HSV-2. However, repeat outbreaks are usually shorter and less severe than the first outbreak. Although genital herpes is a lifelong infection, the number of outbreaks may decrease over time.

Ask a healthcare provider to examine you if:

• You notice any symptoms; or
• Your partner has an STD or symptoms of an STD.

STD symptoms can include an unusual sore, a smelly genital discharge, burning when peeing, or bleeding between periods (if you have a menstrual cycle).

How will my healthcare provider know if I have genital herpes?

Your healthcare provider may diagnose genital herpes by simply looking at any sores that are present. Providers can also take a sample from the sore(s) and test it. If sores are not present, a blood test may be used to look for HSV antibodies.

Have an honest and open talk with your healthcare provider about herpes testing and other STDs.

Please note: A herpes blood test can help determine if you have herpes infection. It cannot tell you who gave you the infection or when you got the infection.

How can I prevent genital herpes?

The only way to completely avoid STDs is to not have vaginal, anal, or oral sex.

If you are sexually active, you can do the following things to lower your chances of getting genital herpes:

• Being in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who does not have herpes.
• Using condoms the right way every time you have sex.

Be aware that not all herpes sores occur in areas that a condom can cover. Also, the skin can release the virus (shed) from areas that do not have a visible herpes sore. For these reasons, condoms may not fully protect you from getting herpes.

If your sex partner(s) has/have genital herpes, you can lower your risk of getting it if:

• Your partner takes an anti-herpes medicine every day. This is something your partner should discuss with his or her healthcare provider.
• You avoid having vaginal, anal, or oral sex when your partner has herpes symptoms (i. e., during an “outbreak”).

Is there a cure for genital herpes?

There is no cure for genital herpes. However, there are medicines that can prevent or shorten outbreaks. A daily anti-herpes medicine can make it less likely to pass the infection on to your sex partner(s).

What happens if I don’t receive treatment?

Genital herpes can cause painful genital sores and can be severe in people with suppressed immune systems.

If you touch your sores or fluids from the sores, you may transfer herpes to another body part like your eyes. Do not touch the sores or fluids to avoid spreading herpes to another part of your body. If you do touch the sores or fluids, quickly wash your hands thoroughly to help avoid spreading the infection.

If you are pregnant, there can be problems for you and your unborn fetus, or newborn baby. See “I’m pregnant. How could genital herpes affect my baby?” for information about this.

I’m pregnant. How could genital herpes affect my baby?

If you are pregnant and have genital herpes, prenatal care visits are very important. Some research suggest that a genital herpes infection may lead to miscarriage or make it more likely to deliver your baby too early. You can pass herpes to your unborn child before birth, but it more commonly passes during delivery. This can lead to a deadly infection in your baby (called neonatal herpes). It is important that you avoid getting genital herpes during pregnancy. Tell your healthcare provider if you have ever had a genital herpes diagnosis or symptoms. Also tell them about any possible exposure to genital herpes.

If you have genital herpes, you may need to take anti-herpes medicine towards the end of your pregnancy. This medicine may reduce your risk of having signs or symptoms of genital herpes when you deliver. At the time of delivery, your healthcare provider should carefully examine you for herpes sores. If you have signs or symptoms of genital herpes at delivery, a ‘C-section’ is likely to occur.

Can I still have sex if I have herpes?

If you have herpes, you should talk to your sex partner(s) about their risk. Using condoms may help lower this risk but it will not get rid of the risk completely. Having sores or other symptoms of herpes can increase your risk of spreading the disease. Even if you do not have any symptoms, you can still infect your sex partners.

You may have concerns about how genital herpes will impact your health, sex life, and relationships. While herpes is not curable, it is important to know that it is manageable with medicine. Daily suppressive therapy (i.e., daily use of antiviral medication) can lower your risk of spreading the virus to others. Talk to a healthcare provider about your concerns and treatment options.

A genital herpes diagnosis may affect how you will feel about current or future sexual relationships. Knowing how to talk to sexual partners about STDs is important.

What is the link between genital herpes and HIV?

Herpes infection can cause sores or breaks in the skin or lining of the mouth, vagina, and rectum. This provides a way for HIV to enter the body. Even without visible sores, herpes increases the number of immune cells in the lining of the genitals. HIV targets immune cells for entry into the body. Having both HIV and genital herpes increases the chance of spreading HIV to a HIV-negative partner during oral, vagina, or anal sex.

 You can add this content to your website by syndicating.

8 myths about herpes – GBUZ “Crimean Central District Hospital” MH KK

Herpes is a common viral disease, with a characteristic rash of clustered blisters on the skin and mucous membranes. The famous ancient Greek historian Herodotus wrote about this unpleasant disease even before our era. It was he who gave her the appropriate name (from the Greek “herpein” – to crawl), thanks to the ability of herpetic ulcers to “spread” in different directions from the primary bubble. For many centuries of “communication” with herpes, humanity has recreated many myths about this disease, the most common of which we asked to comment on the acting head of the Health Center of the State Budgetary Institution of Health “TsOZiMP” of the Ministry of Health of the Territory Irina Volkova.

Myth 1. Herpes is not contagious.

– Exactly the opposite. Herpes is transmitted by airborne droplets (when coughing, sneezing, talking), contact (when kissing, using shared utensils, lipstick) and sexually. Perhaps also infection of the child from the mother at birth.

Myth 2. Herpes is a manifestation of the “cold”.

– In fact, herpes is an independent disease that predetermines the herpes simplex virus. It is usually activated during hypothermia, stress, overwork, exacerbation of chronic diseases or a decrease in general immunity.

Myth 3. If a rash appears on the lips, the cold subsides.

– A common point of view, which, however, has nothing to do with reality. The appearance of a rash means that a respiratory infection has weakened the immune system, and this has given the herpes virus the opportunity to actively act.

Myth 4. If the rash is gone, herpes is cured.

– That would be great, but, unfortunately, it is impossible to remove the virus from the body. He stays with a person for life, and you can only force him to be in a “sleeping” state.

Myth 5. You can get herpes only if you have a rash.

– Indeed, in the active phase of the disease, a greater number of viral particles are released and the likelihood of infection is higher. But the infection can be transmitted at any time through invisible microtraumas of the skin and mucous membranes.

Myth 6. A condom completely protects against infection with genital herpes.

– A condom does reduce the risk of infection, but, unfortunately, it does not give a 100% guarantee. Transmission of the virus can take place through parts of the body that are not covered by a condom.

Myth 7. The best treatment for herpes is cauterization with alcohol, iodine or brilliant green.

– Cauterization does not affect the herpes virus and its activity, but it is very easy to burn damaged skin and mucous membranes in this way. It is better to gently lubricate the rash with an antiseptic that does not contain alcohol so that a purulent infection does not join. Manifestations of the disease are treated with special antiviral drugs. If you have herpes, be sure to consult a doctor!

Myth 8. Herpes affects only the skin and does not pose a particular danger to humans.

– In fact, herpes is the second leading cause of death from viral infections, second only to SARS. The herpes simplex virus is built into the genome of nerve cells, so the rash occurs at the sites of nerve endings and is accompanied by severe pain. Theoretically, herpes can be everywhere where there is nervous tissue, and therefore – in almost any organ. With a decrease in general and local immunity, herpetic inflammation can develop in the mucous membrane of the mouth and larynx, cornea and conjunctiva of the eye, lymph nodes, internal genital organs, intestines, liver, kidneys, lungs and central nervous system. Moreover, genital herpes significantly increases the risk of cervical cancer in women and prostate cancer in men.

Herpes is a very insidious disease, which is much easier to prevent than to cure. Remember this, strictly follow the rules of personal hygiene!

Earlier, a therapist at the Health Center of the State Budgetary Institution of Health “TsOZiMP” of the Ministry of Health of the Territory spoke about the prevention of psoriasis.

GBUZ “Center for Public Health and Medical Prevention” of the Ministry of Health of the Krasnodar Territory

Herpes: symptoms and treatment, doctor’s recommendations

• Home >

• About clinic >

• Publications >

• Herpes: causes, symptoms, and treatment of the virus

“Cold” on the lips is familiar to almost everyone. It is worth catching a runny nose or getting nervous, as an unpleasant harbinger immediately appears – a tingling sensation somewhere near the mouth.

The herpes simplex virus is present in the body of 95% of people. And only a few have immunity, the reasons for which are still not understood.

The virus enters the body in early childhood: at 3-4 years old, when the antibodies against the herpes virus transmitted to the baby by the mother are depleted. Most often, infection occurs if the child is kissed by carriers of the infection. In addition to a kiss, the virus can enter the body, for example, with saliva. It penetrates into the mucous membranes, reaches the nerve endings, rises into the cranial cavity, where it “hides” in the nerve plexus, called the trigeminal ganglion, and “sleeps” there until it is reactivated.

Herpes “wakes up” with a decrease in immunity

Causes of recurrence of herpes on the lips: stress or emotional upset; various other diseases, in particular colds, flu, diabetes, HIV; poisoning or intoxication; alcohol, caffeine and smoking; excessive ultraviolet radiation; hypothermia or overheating; the onset of menstruation; overwork and exhaustion; malnutrition/diet or indigestion; other individual factors for each person.

After “waking up” the virus is sent back to the skin. When moving through a nerve, the virus causes inflammation of the nerve tissue.

The development of herpes can be divided into several stages. At the first stage, the person feels unwell. Pain, tingling appear at the site of the appearance of the “fever”, the skin turns red. At the stage of inflammation, a small, painful vesicle filled with fluid forms. After a while, the vial bursts and a colorless liquid containing billions of viral particles flows out of it. An ulcer appears in its place. At the final stage, the sore is covered with a crust.

Most often, herpes appears on the lips, but lesions can also appear on the face, around the ears, or in the oral cavity.

What to do if you have a “cold” on your lips

At the moment, no medicines and treatments have been developed that would completely destroy the herpes simplex virus in the human body. But a few tips for those suffering from herpes can be given.

• Strictly follow the rules of personal hygiene! Since herpes is contagious, wash your hands with soap and use separate dishes and towels.

• Don’t bring your hands to your eyes! And don’t wet your lenses with saliva! Herpes can affect the mucous membrane of the eye.

• It is not recommended to touch a viral rash, kiss. The virus can be transmitted by wearing one lipstick or smoking one cigarette.

• If you try to remove a blister or crust over an ulcer, the virus can spread to other parts of the body.

• Give up oral sex! A virus from affected lips can cause genital herpes in a partner.

• A young mother must also take certain precautions to protect her baby from contracting herpes. If you have cold sores, wash your hands with soap every time before touching your baby. And in no case should the affected surface come into contact with the skin of the child.

How to minimize discomfort

Starting to use anti-herpes drugs should begin as soon as you feel a tingling sensation. Medications won’t get rid of the virus, but they will stop it from progressing and speed up your recovery. There are drugs that prevent the development of the virus: tablets, ointments for external use, which help the healing of blisters and ulcers, reduce discomfort.

When applying the ointment, use cotton swabs to avoid transmitting the virus from the lips to the skin of the fingers.

Herpes requires the attention of specialists! A “cold” on the lips can be a symptom of serious diseases: a sharp decrease in immunity, cancer, HIV infection.

If you suffer from relapses of herpes – consult a doctor. The specialist will not only relieve you of unnecessary worries and eliminate the danger to health, but will also help you choose a comprehensive program for the prevention and treatment of herpes.

To make an appointment with an immunologist or a dermatologist for the program of diagnosis and treatment of herpes, call the Family Doctor clinic +7 (495) 775 75 66 (clinic hours: Mon-Fri from 8.