What are the symptoms of genital herpes. How is genital herpes transmitted. What treatments are available for genital herpes. How can genital herpes outbreaks be managed. What precautions should be taken during pregnancy with genital herpes.

Understanding Genital Herpes: Symptoms and Diagnosis

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It affects a significant portion of the adult population, with approximately 1 in 5 adults in the United States having the condition. Recognizing the symptoms and obtaining a proper diagnosis are crucial steps in managing this chronic viral infection.

Common Symptoms of Genital Herpes

The symptoms of genital herpes can vary from person to person, but typically include:

• Itching or tingling sensation around the genital area
• Painful, small blisters that eventually pop and form sores
• Sores that ooze or bleed
• Flu-like symptoms during the initial outbreak (fever, headache, body aches)

It’s important to note that some individuals may experience few or no symptoms, making it challenging to identify the infection without proper testing.

Diagnosing Genital Herpes

How is genital herpes diagnosed. Healthcare providers typically use one of two methods to diagnose genital herpes:

1. Swab test: A sample is taken from an active sore and tested for the presence of the virus.
2. Blood test: This can detect antibodies to the herpes virus, even in the absence of symptoms.

It’s worth noting that test results may take a few days to come back. If you suspect you have genital herpes, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Transmission of Genital Herpes: Understanding the Risks

Genital herpes is primarily transmitted through sexual contact with an infected individual. This includes vaginal, anal, and oral sex. It’s essential to understand the various ways the virus can spread to take appropriate precautions.

How Genital Herpes Spreads

The herpes virus can be transmitted in several ways:

• Direct contact with herpes sores or blisters
• Contact with skin in the genital or oral area of an infected person, even when no visible sores are present
• Transmission from a partner who is unaware they have the virus
• Spread during oral sex if one partner has a cold sore (oral herpes)

It’s important to understand that the virus cannot survive for long outside the body, so transmission through objects like toilet seats or towels is extremely unlikely.

Asymptomatic Transmission

One of the challenges in preventing the spread of genital herpes is that transmission can occur even when an infected person shows no symptoms. This phenomenon, known as asymptomatic shedding, makes it crucial for individuals with herpes to disclose their status to sexual partners and practice safe sex consistently.

Types of Herpes Viruses and Their Impact

There are two main types of herpes simplex viruses that can cause genital herpes: HSV-1 and HSV-2. Understanding the differences between these types can help in managing the condition and preventing its spread.

HSV-1 vs. HSV-2

What are the differences between HSV-1 and HSV-2. Here’s a brief overview:

• HSV-1: Traditionally associated with oral herpes (cold sores), but can also cause genital herpes
• HSV-2: Primarily causes genital herpes

While HSV-2 is more commonly associated with genital herpes, it’s important to note that both types can infect either the oral or genital area. The symptoms and treatment for both types are generally similar.

Long-term Implications of Herpes Infection

Once a person is infected with the herpes virus, it remains in the body for life. The virus lies dormant in nerve cells and can reactivate periodically, causing outbreaks. Over time, many people experience fewer and milder outbreaks, but the potential for transmission remains.

Treatment Options for Genital Herpes

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

Antiviral Medications

The primary treatment for genital herpes involves antiviral medications. These drugs work by suppressing the herpes virus, reducing the severity and duration of outbreaks. Common antiviral medications include:

• Acyclovir
• Valacyclovir
• Famciclovir

These medications can be prescribed for episodic treatment (taken at the first sign of an outbreak) or as suppressive therapy (taken daily to prevent outbreaks).

Suppressive Therapy

For individuals with frequent outbreaks or those who want to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to partners, daily suppressive therapy may be recommended. This approach involves taking antiviral medication every day, which can:

• Reduce the frequency of outbreaks
• Shorten the duration of outbreaks
• Lower the risk of transmitting the virus to sexual partners

The decision to use suppressive therapy should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, taking into account individual circumstances and preferences.

Managing Genital Herpes Outbreaks: Practical Tips

While antiviral medications are the primary means of managing genital herpes, there are several self-care measures that can help alleviate symptoms and promote healing during outbreaks.

Self-Care During Outbreaks

How can you manage symptoms during a genital herpes outbreak. Consider the following tips:

• Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing to reduce irritation
• Take warm, soothing baths to relieve pain and promote healing
• Apply cold compresses to affected areas to reduce pain and itching
• Keep the affected area clean and dry
• Avoid touching or scratching sores to prevent spreading the infection
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers if needed

It’s important to avoid sexual contact during outbreaks to prevent transmitting the virus to partners.

Lifestyle Factors and Outbreak Triggers

Certain factors can trigger herpes outbreaks in some individuals. Being aware of these triggers can help in managing the condition:

• Stress
• Illness or weakened immune system
• Hormonal changes (e.g., menstruation)
• Fatigue
• Friction in the genital area
• Excessive sun exposure

By identifying personal triggers, individuals can take steps to minimize their impact and potentially reduce the frequency of outbreaks.

Genital Herpes and Pregnancy: Special Considerations

Genital herpes can pose additional risks during pregnancy, making it crucial for expectant mothers with the condition to work closely with their healthcare providers.

Risks to the Baby

The primary concern with genital herpes during pregnancy is the potential for transmission to the baby during delivery. This risk is highest if the mother experiences her first herpes outbreak near the time of delivery. Neonatal herpes can cause serious complications, including:

• Skin, eye, and mouth infections
• Central nervous system damage
• Disseminated infection affecting multiple organs

Management During Pregnancy

How is genital herpes managed during pregnancy. Healthcare providers may recommend the following measures:

• Antiviral medication starting at 36 weeks of pregnancy to reduce the risk of an outbreak during delivery
• Cesarean section if active lesions are present at the time of delivery
• Close monitoring for symptoms or outbreaks throughout pregnancy

It’s important for pregnant women with genital herpes to communicate openly with their healthcare providers to ensure appropriate management and reduce risks to the baby.

Living with Genital Herpes: Coping and Prevention Strategies

While genital herpes is a chronic condition, it’s possible to lead a healthy, fulfilling life with proper management and prevention strategies.

Emotional Impact and Support

Receiving a genital herpes diagnosis can be emotionally challenging. It’s important to remember that herpes is a common condition and does not define a person’s worth or ability to have healthy relationships. Seeking support through counseling, support groups, or trusted friends and family can be beneficial in coping with the emotional aspects of the diagnosis.

Prevention Strategies

How can the spread of genital herpes be prevented. Consider the following strategies:

• Use condoms or dental dams consistently during sexual activity
• Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks
• Communicate openly with sexual partners about herpes status
• Consider suppressive therapy to reduce the risk of transmission
• Get tested regularly for STIs, including herpes

It’s important to note that while these strategies can significantly reduce the risk of transmission, they cannot eliminate it entirely. Open communication and mutual understanding between partners are key components of managing the condition in relationships.

Dispelling Myths and Stigma

Education plays a crucial role in dispelling myths and reducing stigma associated with genital herpes. Some important facts to remember include:

• Herpes is a skin condition, not a reflection of a person’s character or sexual history
• Many people with herpes have few or no symptoms and lead normal, healthy lives
• With proper management, the risk of transmission to partners can be significantly reduced
• Herpes does not typically cause serious health problems in healthy adults

By promoting accurate information and understanding, we can help reduce the stigma surrounding genital herpes and support those living with the condition.

Advancements in Herpes Research: Future Prospects

While current treatments focus on managing symptoms and reducing transmission, ongoing research offers hope for improved therapies and potential preventive measures for genital herpes.

Vaccine Development

Efforts to develop a vaccine for genital herpes have been ongoing for decades. While no vaccine is currently available, several candidates are in various stages of clinical trials. These potential vaccines aim to either prevent infection or reduce the severity and frequency of outbreaks in those already infected.

Novel Treatment Approaches

Researchers are exploring new treatment strategies for genital herpes, including:

• Gene editing techniques to target the herpes virus directly
• Immunotherapy approaches to enhance the body’s natural defense against the virus
• New antiviral compounds with improved efficacy and fewer side effects

While these advancements are promising, it’s important to note that they are still in the research phase and may take years before becoming available for widespread use.

In conclusion, while genital herpes remains a challenging condition, advances in treatment, management strategies, and ongoing research offer hope for improved outcomes for those affected by the virus. By staying informed, practicing prevention, and seeking appropriate medical care, individuals with genital herpes can effectively manage their condition and maintain a high quality of life.

Pictures, Symptoms, Treatment, and More

Medically Reviewed by Nivin Todd, MD on December 02, 2022

You may feel itchy or tingly around your genitals. This is usually followed by painful, small blisters that pop and leave sores that ooze or bleed. Most people notice symptoms within a few weeks after they catch the virus from someone else. The first time it happens, you may also have a fever, headache, or other flu-like feelings. Some people have few or no symptoms.

You get herpes by having any kind of sex — vaginal, oral, or anal — with someone who’s infected. It’s so common in the U.S. that 1 in every 5 adults has it. Herpes can be spread during oral sex if you or your partner has a cold sore. Because the virus can’t live long outside your body, you can’t catch it from something like a toilet seat or towel. 

Sometimes people mistake a pimple or ingrown hair for herpes. Your doctor can take a small sample from sores by using a swab test. If you don’t have symptoms but think you might have herpes, your doctor can do a blood test. It may take a few days to get your results.

Genital herpes usually comes from the virus called herpes simplex-2 (HSV-2). Its cousin, HSV-1, is what gives you cold sores. You can get HSV-2 from someone whether they have symptoms or not.

Your doctor will prescribe an antiviral medicine. These pills can help you feel better and shorten an outbreak. In the meantime, don’t kiss or have any kind of sex with other people. Even if you don’t have symptoms, you can still spread the disease.

Some people only take their medications if they feel the itching and tingling that means an outbreak is coming on — or when sores show up — to stop it from getting worse. Your doctor may suggest you take an antiviral every day if you:

• Have lots of outbreaks
• Want to prevent more outbreaks
• Want to lower the risk of spreading it to your partner

You can treat herpes, but once you get it, you’ll always have it. When symptoms show up, it’s called having an outbreak. The first is usually the worst. Most people have them on and off for several years,  but they get milder and happen less often over time.

As long as you’re sexually active, there’s a chance you could get herpes. You’ll make it a lot less likely if you use a latex or polyurethane condom or dental dam every time, for every activity. The dam or condom only protects the area it covers. If you don’t have herpes, you and your partner should get tested for STDs before sex. If you’re both disease-free and aren’t having sex with other people, you should be safe.

• Wear loose-fitting clothes and cotton underwear.
• Avoid sun or heat that could cause more blisters.
• Take a warm, soothing bath.
• Don’t use perfumed soaps or douches near your blisters.

The herpes virus stays in your body forever, even if you have no symptoms. You may have an outbreak when you’re sick, after you’ve been out in the sun, or when you’re stressed out or tired. If you’re a woman, you could get one when you start your period.

You still can have sex if you have genital herpes, but you must tell your partner you have the virus. They need to know so they can get tested. Wear a condom any time you have sex. Never have sex during an outbreak.

People often don’t have serious problems from herpes, but there’s a chance of them. Wash your hands often, especially during an outbreak. If you touch a blister and rub your eyes, the infection can spread to your eyes. If your eyes are red, swollen, hurt, or are sensitive to light, see your doctor. Treating it can help prevent serious vision problems.

If you’re pregnant and have herpes, your doctor may suggest that you have your baby by C-section if you are experiencing an outbreak. Why? During vaginal birth, the herpes virus could spread to your baby, especially if your first outbreak happens around the delivery time. The virus could give your baby rashes, eye problems, or more serious issues. A C-section makes that less likely. Your doctor may also have you take anti-viral medicine starting at about 34 weeks to avoid an outbreak around your due date.

Getting ready to talk to your partner about herpes? These tips can help you prepare for the conversation. The American Sexual Health Association recommends you pick a time when you won’t be interrupted, plan what you want to say ahead of time, and practice what you’ll say so you feel confident.

IMAGES PROVIDED BY:

(1)    Interactive Medical Media LLC, Fitzpatrick’s Color Atlas & Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology, Dr. Harold Fisher
(2)    Blend Images
(3)    iStock
(4)    The Image Bank
(5)    Moment Open
(6)    Stockbyte
(7)    iStock
(8)    Photo Alto
(9)    Digital Vision
(10)   Taxi
(11)   Iconica
(12)   Photo Researchers / Getty
(13)   Monkey Business
(14)   Photonica

SOURCES:

American Sexual Health Association

Brown University Health Education: “Genital Herpes.”

CDC: “Genital Herpes – CDC Fact Sheet.”

Kimberlin, D. Human Herpes Viruses, 2007.

TeensHealth: “Genital Herpes.”

University of Rochester Medical Center: “What You Need to Know About STDs. “

UpToDate.com: “Patient information: Genital herpes (Beyond the Basics).”

WomensHealth.gov: “Genital herpes fact sheet.”

© 2022 WebMD, LLC. All rights reserved. View privacy policy and trust info

Herpes, Genital Warts, Gonorrhea, STD Symptoms, & Testing

Medically Reviewed by Traci C. Johnson, MD on January 14, 2023

You don’t have to have sex to get an STD. Skin-to-skin contact is enough to spread HPV, the virus family that causes genital warts. Some types cause warts and are usually harmless, but others may lead to cervical or anal cancer. Vaccines can protect against some of the most dangerous types.

Signs: Pink or flesh-colored warts that are raised, flat, or shaped like cauliflower. Often there are no symptoms.

“Crabs” is the common term for lice that set up shop in pubic hair. The term comes from the shape of the tiny parasites, which look very different from head or body lice. The creatures crawl from one person to another during close contact. Pubic lice can be killed with over-the-counter lotions.

Symptoms: Intense itching, tiny eggs attached to pubic hair, or crawling lice.

Scabies is an itchy infestation caused by a tiny mite that burrows into human skin to lay eggs. It is not always an STD, as it can spread through any skin-to-skin contact. But among young adults, the mites are often acquired during sex. Scabies is treated with prescription creams.

Symptoms: Intense itching especially at night and a pimple-like rash. It may take 2-6 weeks for symptoms to appear.

Gonorrhea spreads easily and can lead to infertility in both men and women, if untreated. Antibiotics stop the infection.

Symptoms: Common symptoms are burning during urination and discharge, but often there are no early symptoms. Later, the infection may cause skin rashes or spread to the joints and blood.

In Men: Discharge from the penis, swollen testicles.

In Women: Vaginal discharge, pelvic pain, spotting. Symptoms may be mild and are easily confused with a urinary tract or vaginal infection.

Most people don’t notice the early symptoms of syphilis. The USPSTF recommends screening for syphilis infection in persons who are at increased risk for infection. Without treatment, it can lead to paralysis, blindness, and death. Syphilis can be cured with antibiotics.

Signs and Symptoms: The first sign is usually a firm, round, painless sore on the genitals or anus. The disease spreads through direct contact with this sore. Later there may be a rash on the soles, palms, or other parts of the body (seen here), as well as swollen glands, fever, hair loss, or fatigue. In the late stage, symptoms come from damage to organs such as the heart, brain, liver, nerves, and eyes.

Chlamydia is a common STD that can lead to infertility if left untreated. It clears up quickly with antibiotics. But it often goes unnoticed because symptoms are vague or absent. Chlamydia can also infect the rectum and throat.

Symptoms in Men: Burning and itching at the tip of the penis, discharge, painful urination.

Symptoms in Women: Vaginal itching, discharge that may have an odor, pain during sex, painful urination.

That painful cold sore you get on your lip every now and then? It’s probably caused by a type of herpes virus called HSV-1. This virus is usually not an STD; it spreads easily among household members or through kissing. But it can be spread to the genitals through oral or genital contact with an infected person. Though there is no cure, drugs can shorten or prevent outbreaks.

Signs and Symptoms: Occasional cold sores or “fever blisters” on the lips. Small blister or sores on the genitals are also possible.

Most cases of genital herpes are caused by a virus called HSV-2. It’s highly contagious and can spread through intercourse or direct contact with a herpes sore. As with HSV-1, there is no cure. But antiviral drugs can make outbreaks less frequent and help clear up symptoms more quickly.

Symptoms: Fluid-filled blisters that form painful, crusted sores on the genitals, anus, thighs, or buttocks. Can spread to the lips through oral contact.

Hepatitis B is a stealthy virus that can cause severe liver damage. It spreads through contact with blood and other body fluids. People can be infected through sex, needle sharing, and at birth, as well as by sharing razors and toothbrushes. There is no cure, but drugs can keep the virus in check. There’s also an effective vaccine to prevent hepatitis B.

Symptoms: People may develop nausea, belly pain, dark urine, fatigue, and a yellowing of the skin or eyes with acute infection. Chronic infection can lead to liver cirrhosis and liver cancer. Many people have no symptoms for years.

The HIV virus weakens the body’s defense against infections. HIV spreads through unprotected sex, needle sharing, or being born to an infected mother. It may cause no symptoms for years, so a blood test is the best way to learn your status. Timely treatment is important to help prevent serious illnesses.

Early symptoms of HIV Infection: Many have no symptoms, but some people get temporary flu-like symptoms one to two months after infection: swollen glands (seen here), a fever, headaches, and fatigue. Canker sores in the mouth can occur, too.

Reliable HIV tests can be done in a clinic or at home with the FDA-approved Home Access brand test kit. Anonymous tests use only a number to identify you. One limitation is the “window period” of up to six months after exposure to HIV when these antibody tests sometimes do not find the virus. You can pass HIV to others during that time.

If You Suspect HIV/AIDS: If you’ve been exposed to HIV, starting medications immediately can help prevent infection. If you have the virus, treatments can help prevent HIV from turning into AIDS.

While there is no cure for HIV, there are medications that can suppress the amount of virus multiplying inside the body. People take a combination of antiviral drugs in hopes of preventing the infection from advancing to AIDS. Additional treatments can help prevent or fight off serious infections, if the immune system has weakened.

Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite that spreads during sexual contact. It can be cured with prescription drugs.

Signs and Symptoms in Men: Most men have no obvious symptoms. Some develop a mild discharge or slight burning during urination.

Signs and Symptoms in Women: Women may develop a yellow-green discharge with a strong odor, vaginal itching, or pain during sex or urination. Symptoms usually begin five to 28 days after acquiring the parasite.

Chancroid is a bacterial STD that is common in Africa and Asia but rare in the U.S. It causes genital sores that can spread the bacteria from one person to another. Antibiotics can cure the infection.

Symptoms in Men: Painful bumps on the penis that may develop into pus-filled open sores, pain in the genitals and groin.
Symptoms in Women: Painful bumps in the genital area that can develop into open sores, swollen lymph nodes in the groin.

LGV is caused by a type of chlamydia that is usually rare in the U.S. But it’s becoming more common in men who have sex with men. Like other forms of chlamydia, it can be cured with antibiotics.

Symptoms: Open sores on the genitals or anus, headache, fever, fatigue, and swollen lymph glands in the groin (seen here). If acquired through anal sex, LGV may cause rectal bleeding or discharge.

Not an STD itself, pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is a serious complication of untreated STDs, especially chlamydia and gonorrhea. It happens when bacteria spread to infect the uterus and other female reproductive organs. Prompt treatment is essential to prevent damage to a woman’s fertility.

Signs and Symptoms: Lower abdominal pain, fever, unusual discharge, painful intercourse, painful urination, and spotting. However, there are often no warning signs.

Anyone who is sexually active is at risk for an STD, regardless of gender, race, social class, or sexual orientation. That said, teenagers and young adults acquire STDs more easily than older people. By age 25, half of sexually active adults get an STD. Having multiple sex partners also raises the risk. The CDC has noted that some STDs are on the rise in men who have sex with men, including syphilis and LGV.

Yes, they can. Many STDs spread through any type of sexual activity, including skin-to-skin contact and oral sex. This is especially true of STDs that produce genital lesions or sores.

The best ways to avoid getting an STD are to abstain from any sexual contact and be in a monogamous, long-term relationship with an uninfected partner. To reduce the odds of getting STDs:

• Ask your partner if they have an STD.
• Ask partners to be tested before sexual activity.
• Use condoms.
• Avoid sexual activity if your partner has signs of an STD.
• Be aware of symptoms and get regular checkups with your health care provider.

While condoms are effective in preventing the spread of some STDs, they are not perfect. Condoms are better at protecting against gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, and trichomoniasis. But they offer less protection against herpes, syphilis, and genital warts. These infections can spread through contact with skin lesions that are not covered by a condom. Finally, condoms offer virtually no protection against crabs and scabies.

If you think you have an STD, tell your partner(s) as soon as possible. You may be able to spread the infection even if you have already begun treatment or are using condoms. With some STDs, doctors recommend treating both partners at the same time. This may be a difficult conversation. Some people find it helpful to write a script ahead of time. Be sure to let your partner ask questions and express their feelings.

It is important for pregnant women to be checked for STDs. They can cause women to go into labor too early and may complicate delivery. Many STDs can be passed from mother to baby during pregnancy, childbirth, or after the baby is born. STDs’ effects on babies can include stillbirth, low birth weight, neurologic problems, blindness, liver disease, and serious infection. But there are treatments to minimize these risks. Treatment during pregnancy can cure some STDs and lower the risk of passing the infection to your baby. 

Most STD treatments do not protect you from getting the same infection again. A course of drugs may cure gonorrhea, syphilis, chlamydia or trichomoniasis, but a new exposure can start a new infection. If your partner is not treated, you can continue to pass infections back and forth. And if you’re not taking the right precautions to protect yourself, you can be re-infected quickly or even pick up a second STD.  

IMAGES PROVIDED BY:

1)    Science Source, Dr P. Marazzi, Dr. Harout Tanielian, Biophoto Associates /  Photo Researchers Inc.
2)    London Scientific Films
3)    Dr. P. Marazzi / Photo Researchers, Inc.
4)    Juergen Berger / Photo Researchers, Interactive Medical Media LLC , Fitzpatrick’s Color Atlas & Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology
5)    Science Source/Photo Researchers, Fitzpatrick’s Color Atlas & Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology
6)    BSIP/Photo Researchers Inc
7)    Interactive Medical Media LLC
8)    Interactive Medical Media LLC, Fitzpatrick’s Color Atlas & Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology, Dr. Harold Fisher/Visuals Unlimited
9)    Eye of Science/Photo Researchers Inc
10)    Dr. M.A. Ansary / Photo Researchers, Inc., Science Source, Fitzpatrick’s Color Atlas & Synopsis of Clinical Dermatology
11)    Bildagentur RM/Tips Italia
12)    Bruce Forester/Photographer’s Choice
13)    IMA / Photo Researchers Inc
14)    Dr. M.A. Ansary / Photo Researchers, Inc., David M. Phillips / Photo Researchers, Inc, Fitzpatrick’s Color Atlas & Synopsis of Clinical Dermatolog
15)    Dr. M.A. Ansary / Photo Researchers, Inc.
16)    Judith Glick / Phototake
17)    Clarissa Leahy/Photographer’s Choice
18)    Christoph Martin/Lifesize
19)    George Diebold/Photographer’s Choice
20)    Michael Winokur/Workbook Stock
21)    John Lamb/Stone
22)    UHB Trust/Stone
23)    Alan Powdrill/Stone

REFERENCES:

American Social Health Association.
American Social Health Association’s National Herpes Resource Center.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention web site.
FDA web site.
Fleming, et al. The New England Journal of Medicine, Oct. 16, 1997.
March of Dimes web site.
Merck Manual, 17th edition.
National HIV Testing Resources.
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases.
National Institutes of Health.
The Nemours Foundation’s Kids Health web site.
U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services.

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Stomatidine

Stomatidine

• Herpes: causes and consequences
• How to recognize herpes
• Diagnostics and prevention
• Herpes: how to treat

Herpes is a disease caused primarily by two types of virus: HSV-1 and HSV-2. The infection affects the skin, organs of vision, genitals, in severe cases penetrates the nervous system, causing meningitis or encephalitis. The most famous form is herpes on the lip – it is familiar to everyone. About 90% of the urban population of the planet are carriers of herpes. This is not only the most common virus, but also one of the oldest forms of infection in existence.

The first pathogen was isolated by W. Gruter in 1912. Today, 8 varieties of the virus are known. The insidiousness of herpes lies in the fact that, once it enters the body, it remains there for life. It can stay in a latent form, not appear at all, or remind of itself with inveterate periodicity. It affects any part of the body and provokes a different outcome of the disease – from the most imperceptible course to death.

Herpes: causes and consequences

Having settled in the body, the herpes virus waits for the right moment. The tactic is simple: catch the time when the immune system is weakened and penetrate the bloodstream. Immunity gives in to a serious blow and suffers even more. Against the background of an awakened infection, other diseases may be added. Not only the skin suffers, but also the internal organs, mucous membranes. Herpes is incurable. However, humanity lives with it, successfully suppressing the symptoms and pathogen.

First type

Herpes on the lip and mouth is caused by a virus of the first type. They used to call him a cold, in part, it is. A cold is a process of activation of pathogenic microflora that already lives in the body. It multiplies with a decrease in immunity. So does herpes.

The child acquires antibodies to the virus from the mother, but by the age of 3 they disappear. Since infection occurs easily, it does not appear immediately, many do not even notice it. The only way out is to increase the body’s natural defenses (immunity).

Causes of herpes, more precisely factors that reduce immunity and provoke its manifestation:

• viral diseases and colds
• Start of menstruation in women
• severe stress
• long exposure to the sun
• lack of sleep
• hypothermia or overheating
• vitamin deficiency
• exhausting diets

Many factors can be avoided by a healthy lifestyle.

The virus easily enters the environment from patients with rashes. If the particles of the pathogen get on the skin or mucous membranes, infection occurs. Any household items can also cause infection: linen, toys, dishes.

Second type

Type 2 virus causes genital infection. It is transmitted sexually. After oral sex, herpes can develop in the mouth. One of the most dangerous forms of the disease is intrauterine infection. This happens if the virus is activated in the mother’s body during pregnancy. For the fetus, the consequences are severe.

With a mild course of the disease, the prognosis is good: the symptoms were eliminated, and the virus subsided for many years. Sometimes there are complications:

• damage to eggs and sperm leading to infertility
• herpetic vision loss
• suffering from the central nervous system and brain
• sciatica
• angina and pharyngitis
• herpetic pneumonia
• hepatitis

These severe effects are a reminder that cold sores are not to be trifled with and should be treated promptly at the slightest sign of symptoms.

How to recognize herpes

All 8 types of herpes virus have different manifestations of the disease. The causative agent can be identified by the symptoms and the area of ​​​​the body that is affected.

Symptoms of herpes

The development of the disease occurs imperceptibly. Once in the body, the virus is attacked by the immune system. Now there are two options for the development of the situation:

• the disease actively affects the skin, mucous membranes, organs
• virus enters latent stage

The causative agent may remain silent for days to decades.

During the latent period (calm of the disease) no symptoms appear. The carrier of the virus is not contagious. Then the hidden reproduction of the infection begins, asymptomatic, but already with a threat to others.

When herpes is activated, the symptoms appear gradually:

• itching occurs on the affected area
• a blistering rash develops after a few days
• enlarged lymph nodes
• in some cases, the temperature rises, muscles ache, headache
• the infection enters the cells of the nervous system, where it can live for years

These are the first symptoms that indicate infection. Herpes (from the Greek “herpein”) means “to crawl”. It is able to spread to all internal organs. There is no complete medical cure for the disease. Treatment of herpes is reduced to the removal of symptoms and temporary suppression of the virus.

Disease stages

The disease proceeds with pronounced periods. There are five of them.

• The first stage is itching. During this period, the affected area causes discomfort. Herpes on the lip is characterized by a burning sensation in the corners of the mouth.
• The second stage is the inflammatory process. There is swelling that hurts. Gradually, it occupies a large area. Many small bubbles of liquid cover the skin, concentrating on one area.
• Erosion occurs in the third stage. The bubbles burst, the liquid flows out. It contains infectious viral particles. A wound remains at the site of inflammation, which heals at the next stage.
• The fourth stage is the formation of scabs. They look unaesthetic, cause pain, and may bleed. However, the crusts speak of the final stage of the course of the disease.
• The fifth stage does not occur in all cases, manifesting itself with severe consequences and complications. With a favorable outcome, the virus calms down.

Species

Diseases are provoked by 8 types of herpes virus.

Virus	Main disease	Symptoms	Complications, severe diseases
HSV-1 (herpes simplex virus type 1)	Herpes of the skin, mucous membranes, eyes, pneumonia	Blisters on the lips. Sometimes pharyngitis, stomatitis, fever and fever	Hepatitis, atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, encephalitis, meningitis, neuroblastoma
HSV-2	Genital herpes, neonatal herpes	Redness of the genitals, itching and blisters in the intimate area. Herpes in children of the first 4 weeks of life is very dangerous: internal organs are affected	Neonatal herpes, encephalitis, meningitis in adults, cervical and prostate cancer
HHV-3	Chickenpox and shingles	Red rash on the body, fever. With lichen – rashes localized in the region of the ribs and chest	Neuropathy, encephalitis
Epstein-Barr virus (type 4)	Infectious mononucleosis	High fever, enlargement of internal organs (liver, spleen) and lymph nodes, tonsillitis	Burkitt’s lymphoma, lymphogranulomatosis, encephalitis, meningitis carcinoma
Cytomegalovirus (CMV, HHV-5)	Congenital CMV infection, hepatitis, pneumonia, enterocolitis, CMV mononucleosis	Fever, intoxication, weakness, chills, headaches, muscle pain, bronchitis. Duration up to 6 weeks	CNS congenital disorders, meningitis, encephalitis, cranial neuropathy, brain lymphomas, genital tumors
Human herpes virus type 6 (HHV-6)	Sudden roseola in children, chronic fatigue syndrome	Manifested in children under 2 years of age. The temperature immediately rises to 39-40 degrees, lasts up to 5 days. Starting from 4-5 days, rashes appear on the body, the temperature goes down. Often confused with SARS and drug allergies.	Encephalomyelitis, multiple sclerosis, malignant lymphoma
HHV-7	Chronic fatigue syndrome	Permanent weakness not related to other causes.	Lymphoma of the brain
HHV-8	Not established	Symptoms of Kaposi’s sarcoma. Appears on the feet, legs, hands. The foci are symmetrical, with clear boundaries.	Kaposi’s sarcoma, especially in HIV-infected people

Often, when it comes to HSV, they mean herpes in the mouth, lips, eyes and genitals, caused by the first two types of the virus.

Diagnosis and prevention

Herpes: how to treat

When the pathogen has passed into the active stage, the question arises: how to treat herpes? To suppress the first type of virus, both individual agents and complex therapy are used. Depending on the form of manifestation of the infection and the affected area (lips, oral mucosa, pharynx), a cure for herpes is selected. Use antiviral drugs and broad-spectrum drugs. Ointments are prescribed for the treatment of the skin. In the case when the infection has penetrated the pharynx or the mucous membrane in the mouth has suffered, rinse solutions are prescribed.

Among preschool children, infection with the herpes virus occurs in kindergartens or playgrounds. Mother’s antibodies protect the child up to 3-4 years, then a collision with an infection is inevitable. The virus is transmitted through shared toys, dishes, close contact with infected babies. The treatment of herpes in children is complicated, as they can scratch the wounds, scratch the affected area of ​​the skin, wipe the ointment. Herpetic stomatitis develops. Other complications include herpes laryngitis, bronchitis, tonsillitis. They occur in both children and adults.

Treatment of herpes in adults and children from 6 years of age is aimed at eliminating viral particles from the affected area. Use antimicrobial agents and antiseptics. Along with antiviral drugs, external antiseptic agents are used in the treatment of herpes. Similar medicines for herpes include Stomatidin ^® . The active ingredient of the drug acts on the oropharyngeal mucosa from 8 to 65 hours, inhibiting the growth of microorganisms. How to treat herpes, the doctor will tell you in person. The course and use of the drug depend on the severity of the symptoms. Usually prescribed rinsing the mouth with 15 ml of undiluted solution, for 30 seconds, 2-3 times a day. The medicine is not diluted with water and is used after meals.

Stomatidin ^® is a modern antimicrobial and antibacterial agent used to inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria in oral infections in children and adults. Before using the drug, you should consult with your doctor. In the treatment of herpes, Stomatidin ^® is usually prescribed in complex therapy.

The herpes virus lives in the body of most of the world’s population. With the observance of preventive measures, timely diagnosis and therapy, the infection proceeds easily and imperceptibly.

Manual

See also:

self-medication can harm your health

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Genital herpes – symptoms and treatment ᐉ report on the site

Herpes – the viral disease is widespread, as it can appear in any person. There are two types of virus – the first one attacks the nasal mucosa and the other one – the organs of the body. The same wine is called genital herpes. Like symptoms of illness, that like yogo exuberance mirozpovimo far away.

Symptoms of illness

Basically, genital herpes is transmitted by a static route. It can also become self-infected (through the hands from the mucous membrane of the mouth and nose). Often the virus is transmitted from mother to child through the placenta in a few hours.

The ailment attacks like men, and women with the same frequency. In rich people, the herpes virus is alive in the body, but it does not manifest itself. However, with reduced immunity or other concomitant factors of infection, first symptoms of infection are observed. You can see them:

• pukhirtsevy visipka with translucence in place on the articular organs, in the area of ​​the anus and stegon;
• severe illness, weakness;
• strong liver damage in the area of ​​state organs;
• blotch and scarring of the genitals;
• increase in lymph nodes in the groin;
• temperature increase;
• bіl at m’yazakh groin, in the area across;

Call

• parts before cutting.

In women, genital herpes can be localized on the cervix of the uterus. In humans, the disease affects the head of the state member, the foreskin, the scrotum and the pubis.

After a few days, the bulbs burst, satisfying the fire. On the spot, you can winknut virazki with a rotten place. At the time of arrival of a viral infection, the illness becomes more complicated.

Call the incubation period three times one or two days. Like herpes do not exult, ill pass at an important stage. The most widespread complications are reduced immunity, bacterial infections, damage to the nervous system and cancer of state organs.

The virus can sleep for a long time and not manifest itself. Acute guilt through hypothermia, stress, decreased immunity in case of GRVI.

Diagnosis of genital herpes

Diagnosing genital herpes is important on your own, but you can confuse the symptoms of other illnesses. Therefore, if there are any signs, immediately go to the doctor. After the last inspection, the doctor will send you for analysis. Most effective – price:

• IFA. The test shows the presence of antibodies to the herpes virus in the blood. Such an analysis allows you to determine whether a person is carrying the virus (to remember that it is still at the stage of remission).
• PLR. The test helps to detect the presence of the virus in the blood.

After analysis, appoint a drug.

Treatment for genital herpes

It is impossible to vibrate against the herpes virus. However, with correctly recognized likuvanni, a person enters the stage of remission and is allowed to show symptoms for three hours.

Basically, for the stabilization of the situation, it is necessary to sow the following:

• Antiviral therapy. Seek out the look of the tablets – acyclovir and zovirax. Similar medical preparations will take into account the spread and spread of the virus and the symptoms. Other faces are introduced internally.
• Ointments. Zinc, oxolinium, interfering zasіb dopomozhe znyat sverbіzh and speed up the zavnіshnіh manifestations of ailments.
• Candles.