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Hsv 1 herpes symptoms. HSV-1 and HSV-2: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Herpes Simplex Virus

What are the key facts about herpes simplex virus. How is HSV transmitted and what are its symptoms. What treatment options are available for HSV infections. How can HSV be prevented and managed long-term.

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Understanding Herpes Simplex Virus: Types, Prevalence, and Transmission

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a widespread viral infection that affects billions of people worldwide. There are two main types of HSV:

  • HSV-1: Primarily causes oral herpes, but can also cause genital herpes
  • HSV-2: Mainly responsible for genital herpes

The prevalence of HSV is staggering. An estimated 3.7 billion people under age 50 globally have HSV-1 infection, while approximately 491 million people aged 15-49 worldwide have HSV-2 infection. These figures underscore the importance of understanding and managing this common viral condition.

HSV spreads primarily through skin-to-skin contact. HSV-1 typically transmits through oral contact, causing infections in or around the mouth. HSV-2, on the other hand, spreads through sexual contact and results in genital herpes. It’s crucial to note that both types can cause oral or genital infections, depending on the site of contact during transmission.

Recognizing HSV Symptoms: From Mild Discomfort to Painful Outbreaks

HSV infections can manifest in various ways, ranging from asymptomatic cases to painful, recurring outbreaks. What are the typical symptoms of herpes simplex virus? The most common signs include:

  • Painful blisters or ulcers
  • Tingling, itching, or burning sensation before sore appearance
  • Fever and body aches (especially during initial outbreaks)
  • Swollen lymph nodes

For oral herpes (typically HSV-1), symptoms often present as cold sores or open ulcers in or around the mouth and lips. Genital herpes (usually HSV-2) manifests as bumps, blisters, or open sores around the genitals or anus.

It’s important to understand that many people with HSV have no symptoms or only mild ones. This asymptomatic nature contributes to the virus’s widespread transmission, as individuals may unknowingly pass the infection to others.

First-Time Outbreaks vs. Recurrent Episodes

Initial HSV outbreaks tend to be more severe and may include additional symptoms such as:

  • Fever
  • Body aches
  • Sore throat (in cases of oral herpes)
  • Headaches
  • Swollen lymph nodes near the infection site

Recurrent episodes, while still uncomfortable, are usually shorter in duration and less severe than the initial outbreak. These recurring symptoms can be distressing for many individuals, impacting their quality of life and, in the case of genital herpes, potentially affecting sexual relationships.

Diagnosis of Herpes Simplex Virus: Ensuring Accurate Detection

Proper diagnosis of HSV is crucial for effective management and prevention of transmission. How is herpes simplex virus diagnosed? Healthcare providers typically use a combination of methods:

  • Visual examination of symptoms
  • Medical history review
  • Laboratory tests

Visual examination involves inspecting the affected areas for characteristic signs of HSV infection, such as blisters or ulcers. However, visual diagnosis alone is not always reliable, especially in cases with atypical presentations.

Laboratory tests provide more definitive diagnoses. These may include:

  1. Viral culture: Samples from sores are tested to see if the virus grows in a laboratory setting
  2. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test: Detects the genetic material of the virus
  3. Blood tests: Check for HSV antibodies, indicating past or current infection

It’s worth noting that blood tests can’t distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2 infections at different body sites. For example, a positive HSV-1 antibody test doesn’t specify whether the infection is oral or genital.

Treatment Options for HSV: Managing Symptoms and Reducing Outbreaks

While there is no cure for herpes simplex virus, various treatment options can help manage symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks. What treatments are available for HSV infections?

Antiviral Medications

The primary treatment for HSV involves antiviral medications. These drugs work by suppressing the virus’s ability to replicate, thereby reducing the severity and duration of outbreaks. Common antiviral medications for HSV include:

  • Acyclovir
  • Valacyclovir
  • Famciclovir

These medications can be prescribed in different ways:

  1. Episodic therapy: Taken at the first sign of an outbreak to shorten its duration
  2. Suppressive therapy: Taken daily to reduce the frequency of outbreaks
  3. Treatment of first episodes: Higher doses for a longer duration to manage initial outbreaks

Symptom Management

In addition to antiviral medications, various strategies can help manage HSV symptoms:

  • Over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Topical anesthetics for pain relief
  • Warm baths to soothe affected areas
  • Wearing loose-fitting clothing to minimize irritation

It’s important to note that while these treatments can significantly improve quality of life for people with HSV, they do not eliminate the virus from the body. The infection remains dormant and can potentially reactivate in the future.

Prevention Strategies: Reducing the Risk of HSV Transmission

Preventing the spread of herpes simplex virus is crucial for public health. How can HSV transmission be prevented? Several strategies can help reduce the risk:

  • Abstaining from sexual contact during outbreaks
  • Using barrier methods like condoms and dental dams during sexual activity
  • Avoiding kissing or oral contact when oral herpes symptoms are present
  • Practicing good hygiene, especially during outbreaks
  • Communicating openly with sexual partners about HSV status

For pregnant women with genital herpes, it’s crucial to inform healthcare providers. In some cases, antiviral medication or cesarean delivery may be recommended to prevent transmission to the newborn during childbirth.

It’s worth noting that while these prevention strategies can significantly reduce the risk of transmission, they cannot eliminate it entirely. HSV can still spread even when no symptoms are present, a phenomenon known as asymptomatic shedding.

Living with HSV: Long-Term Management and Psychosocial Considerations

Living with herpes simplex virus involves more than just managing physical symptoms. How can individuals cope with the long-term aspects of HSV infection? Several strategies can help:

Medical Management

  • Regular check-ups with healthcare providers
  • Adherence to prescribed treatment plans
  • Monitoring for any changes in outbreak patterns or severity

Lifestyle Adjustments

Certain lifestyle factors can influence HSV outbreaks. Individuals may benefit from:

  • Stress management techniques
  • Maintaining a healthy diet and exercise routine
  • Getting adequate sleep
  • Avoiding known triggers (which can vary from person to person)

Emotional and Psychological Support

The psychological impact of HSV, particularly genital herpes, can be significant. Support strategies may include:

  • Counseling or therapy
  • Joining support groups
  • Education about the condition to reduce stigma and anxiety

It’s important to remember that while HSV is a lifelong infection, most people with either type of herpes adjust to living with the condition over time. With proper management, individuals can lead healthy, fulfilling lives despite their HSV status.

HSV and HIV: Understanding the Connection

An important aspect of herpes simplex virus that warrants attention is its relationship with HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus). How does HSV infection affect HIV risk? Research has shown that HSV-2 infection increases the risk of both acquiring and transmitting HIV.

Several factors contribute to this increased risk:

  • HSV-2 genital ulcers can provide an entry point for HIV
  • HSV-2 infection increases the number of CD4 T-cells in the genital area, which are target cells for HIV
  • HSV-2 and HIV can interact at the cellular level, potentially enhancing HIV replication

For individuals with both HSV-2 and HIV, managing both conditions is crucial. HSV outbreaks can be more frequent and severe in people with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV. Conversely, effective HIV treatment can help reduce the severity and frequency of HSV outbreaks.

This connection underscores the importance of comprehensive sexual health strategies that address both HSV and HIV prevention and management. Healthcare providers often recommend regular testing for both infections in sexually active individuals, especially those with known risk factors.

Future Directions: Research and Potential Breakthroughs in HSV Management

While current treatments for herpes simplex virus focus on symptom management and outbreak reduction, ongoing research aims to develop more effective strategies. What potential breakthroughs are on the horizon for HSV management?

Vaccine Development

Researchers are working on developing vaccines for both prevention and treatment of HSV infections. While previous attempts have not been successful, new approaches show promise:

  • Prophylactic vaccines to prevent initial infection
  • Therapeutic vaccines to reduce symptoms and viral shedding in those already infected

Novel Antiviral Therapies

Scientists are exploring new antiviral compounds that could more effectively suppress HSV replication or even eliminate the virus from nerve cells where it lies dormant. Some areas of research include:

  • Gene editing techniques to target the HSV genome
  • Immunomodulatory drugs to enhance the body’s natural defenses against the virus
  • Combination therapies that target different stages of the viral life cycle

Improved Diagnostic Tools

Efforts are underway to develop more accurate and accessible diagnostic tests for HSV. These could help in early detection and management of infections, potentially reducing transmission rates.

While these research directions offer hope for improved HSV management in the future, it’s important to note that developing new treatments and vaccines is a long and complex process. In the meantime, current management strategies remain crucial for controlling HSV infections and improving quality of life for those affected.

As research progresses, individuals living with HSV and healthcare providers should stay informed about new developments. This ongoing research not only offers hope for better management of HSV but also contributes to our broader understanding of viral infections and immune responses, potentially benefiting other areas of infectious disease research.

Herpes simplex virus


Herpes simplex virus

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    • Herpes simplex virus

    Key facts

    • An estimated 3. 7 billion people under age 50 (67%) globally have herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection, the main cause of oral herpes.
    • An estimated 491 million people aged 15–49 (13%) worldwide have herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection, the main cause of genital herpes.
    • Most HSV infections are asymptomatic or unrecognized, but symptoms of herpes include painful blisters or ulcers that can recur over time.
    • Infection with HSV-2 increases the risk of acquiring and transmitting HIV infection.

    Overview

    Herpes simplex virus (HSV), known as herpes, is a common infection that can cause painful blisters or ulcers. It primarily spreads by skin-to-skin contact. It is treatable but not curable.

    There are two types of herpes simplex virus.

    Type 1 (HSV-1) mostly spreads by oral contact and causes infections in or around the mouth (oral herpes or cold sores). It can also cause genital herpes. Most adults are infected with HSV-1.

    Type 2 (HSV-2) spreads by sexual contact and causes genital herpes.

    Most people have no symptoms or only mild symptoms. The infection can cause painful blisters or ulcers that can recur over time. Medicines can reduce symptoms but can’t cure the infection.

    Recurrent symptoms of both oral and genital herpes may be distressing. Genital herpes may also be stigmatizing and have an impact on sexual relationships. However, in time, most people with either kind of herpes adjust to living with the infection.

    Symptoms

    Most people with herpes have no symptoms or only mild symptoms. Many people aren’t aware they have the infection and can pass along the virus to others without knowing.

    Symptoms can include painful, recurring blisters or ulcers. New infections may cause fever, body aches and swollen lymph nodes.

    Symptoms may be different during the first episode (or ‘outbreak’) of infection than during a recurrent episode. If symptoms occur, they often begin with tingling, itching or burning near where the sores will appear.  

    Common oral herpes symptoms include blisters (cold sores) or open sores (ulcers) in or around the mouth or lips.

    Common genital herpes symptoms include bumps, blisters, or open sores (ulcers) around the genitals or anus.

    These sores and blisters are typically painful. Blisters may break open, ooze and then crust over. 

    During their first infection, people may experience: 

    • fever
    • body aches
    • sore throat (oral herpes)
    • headache
    • swollen lymph nodes near the infection.

    People can have repeated outbreaks over time (‘recurrences’). These are usually shorter and less severe than the first outbreak.

    Treatment

    Medicines are often used to treat first or recurrent episodes of herpes. They can decrease how long symptoms last and how severe they are, but they can’t cure the infection.

    Treatment for recurrent episodes is most effective when started within 48 hours of when symptoms begin.  

    Antiviral medicines commonly given include acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir.

    Taking a lower daily dose of one of these medicines can also decrease how often symptoms occur (‘outbreaks’).

    Treatment is often recommended for people who get very painful or frequent recurrent episodes or who want to lower the risk of giving herpes to someone else.

    Medicines to help with pain related to sores include paracetamol (acetaminophen), naproxen or ibuprofen. Medicines that can be applied to numb the affected area include benzocaine and lidocaine. 

    Herpes simplex virus lives inside of nerve cells and alternates between being inactive and active. Certain triggers can make the virus active including:

    • illness or fever
    • sun exposure
    • menstrual period
    • injury
    • emotional stress
    • surgery.

    For people whose oral herpes is activated by sunlight, avoiding sun exposure and wearing sunscreen can lower the risk of recurrences.  

    To decrease symptoms of oral herpes, people can: 

    • drink cold drinks or suck on popsicles
    • use over-the-counter pain medicines.

    For genital herpes, people can:

    • sit in a warm bath for 20 minutes (without soap)
    • wear loose fitting clothes
    • use over-the-counter pain medicines.

    There are ways to lower the risk of spreading herpes including:

    • talk to your partner about having herpes
    • don’t have sex if you have symptoms and always wear a condom
    • don’t share items that touched saliva (oral herpes).

    Talk to your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, because there is a risk of passing herpes to your baby.

    Scope of the problem

    In 2016 (last available estimates), 3.7 billion people under the age of 50, or 67% of the global population, had HSV-1 infection (oral or genital). Most HSV-1 infections are acquired during childhood.

    Genital herpes caused by HSV-2 affects an estimated 491 million (13%) people aged 15–49 years worldwide (2016 data). HSV-2 infects women almost twice as often as men because sexual transmission is more efficient from men to women. Prevalence increases with age, though the highest number of new infections are in adolescents.

    Transmission

    HSV-1 is mainly transmitted via contact with the virus in sores, saliva or surfaces in or around the mouth. Less commonly, HSV-1 can be transmitted to the genital area through oral-genital contact to cause genital herpes. It can be transmitted from oral or skin surfaces that appear normal; however, the greatest risk of transmission is when there are active sores. People who already have HSV-1 are not at risk of reinfection, but they are still at risk of acquiring HSV-2.

    HSV-2 is mainly transmitted during sex through contact with genital or anal surfaces, skin, sores or fluids of someone infected with the virus. HSV-2 can be transmitted even if the skin looks normal and is often transmitted in the absence of symptoms.

    In rare circumstances, herpes (HSV-1 and HSV-2) can be transmitted from mother to child during delivery, causing neonatal herpes.

    Possible complications

    HSV-2 and HIV infection

    HSV-2 infection increases the risk of acquiring HIV infection by approximately three-fold. Additionally, people with both HIV and HSV-2 infection are more likely to spread HIV to others. HSV-2 infection is among the most common infections in people living with HIV.

    Severe disease

    In immunocompromised people, including those with advanced HIV infection, herpes can have more severe symptoms and more frequent recurrences. Rare complications of HSV-2 include meningoencephalitis (brain infection) and disseminated infection. Rarely, HSV-1 infection can lead to more severe complications such as encephalitis (brain infection) or keratitis (eye infection).

    Neonatal herpes

    Neonatal herpes can occur when an infant is exposed to HSV during delivery. Neonatal herpes is rare, occurring in an estimated 10 out of every 100 000 births globally. However, it is a serious condition that can lead to lasting neurologic disability or death. The risk for neonatal herpes is greatest when a mother acquires HSV for the first time in late pregnancy.

    Prevention

    People with symptoms of oral herpes should avoid oral contact with others (including oral sex) and sharing objects that touched saliva. Individuals with symptoms of genital herpes should abstain from sexual activity while experiencing symptoms. Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 are most contagious when sores are present but can also be transmitted when no symptoms are felt or visible.

    For sexually active people, consistent and correct use of condoms is the best way to prevent genital herpes and other STIs. Condoms reduce the risk; however, HSV infection can still occur through contact with genital or anal areas not covered by the condom. Medical male circumcision can provide life-long partial protection against HSV-2 infection, as well as against HIV and human papillomavirus (HPV).

    People with symptoms suggestive of genital herpes should be offered HIV testing.

    Pregnant women with symptoms of genital herpes should inform their health care providers. Preventing acquisition of HSV-2 infection is particularly important for women in late pregnancy when the risk for neonatal herpes is greatest.

    WHO response

    WHO is working to increase awareness about HSV infection and its symptoms, improve access to antiviral medications, and promote HIV prevention efforts for those with genital herpes, such as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). 

    WHO and partners are also supporting research to develop new strategies for prevention and control of HSV infections, such as vaccines and topical microbicides.

    • Global estimates of prevalent and incident Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 infections in 2012
      PLoS ONE 9(12): e114989
    • More about sexually transmitted diseases

     

     

     

     

     

    Herpes Simplex (HSV-1 & HSV-2) Virus: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

    Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

    • What Causes Herpes Infections and Outbreaks?
    • What Are the Symptoms of Herpes Simplex?
    • How Is Herpes Simplex Diagnosed?
    • How Is Herpes Simplex Treated?
    • How Painful Is Herpes Simplex?
    • Can Herpes Be Cured?
    • More

     

    Herpes simplex viruses — more commonly known as herpes — are categorized into two types: herpes type 1 (HSV-1, or oral herpes) and herpes type 2 (HSV-2, or genital herpes). Most commonly, herpes type 1 causes sores around the mouth and lips (sometimes called fever blisters or cold sores). HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, but most cases of genital herpes are caused by herpes type 2. In HSV-2, the infected person may have sores around the genitals or rectum. Although HSV-2 sores may occur in other locations, these sores usually are found below the waist.

    Herpes simplex type 1, which is transmitted through oral secretions or sores on the skin, can be spread through kissing or sharing objects such as toothbrushes or eating utensils. In general, a person can only get herpes type 2 infection during sexual contact with someone who has a genital HSV-2 infection. It is important to know that both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can be spread even if sores are not present.

    Pregnant women with genital herpes should talk to their doctor, as genital herpes can be passed on to the baby during childbirth.

    For many people with the herpes virus, which can go through periods of being dormant, attacks (or outbreaks) can be brought on by the following conditions:

    • General illness (from mild illnesses to serious conditions)
    • Fatigue
    • Physical or emotional stress
    • Immunosuppression due to AIDS or such medications as chemotherapy or steroids
    • Trauma to the affected area, including sexual activity
    • Menstruation

    Symptoms of herpes simplex virus typically appear as a blister or as multiple blisters on or around affected areas — usually the mouth, genitals, or rectum. The blisters break, leaving tender sores.

    Often, the appearance of herpes simplex virus is typical and no testing is needed to confirm the diagnosis. If a health care provider is uncertain, herpes simplex can be diagnosed with lab tests, including DNA — or PCR — tests and virus cultures.

    Although there is no cure for herpes, treatments can relieve the symptoms. Medication can decrease the pain related to an outbreak and can shorten healing time. They can also decrease the total number of outbreaks. Drugs including Famvir, Zovirax, and Valtrex are among the drugs used to treat the symptoms of herpes. Warm baths may relieve the pain associated with genital sores.

    Some people experience very mild genital herpes symptoms or no symptoms at all. Frequently, people infected with the virus don’t even know they have it. However, when it causes symptoms, it can be described as extremely painful. This is especially true for the first outbreak, which is often the worst. Outbreaks are described as aches or pains in or around the genital area or burning, pain, or difficulty urinating. Some people experience discharge from the vagina or penis.

    Oral herpes lesions (cold sores) usually cause tingling and burning just prior to the breakout of the blisters. The blisters themselves can also be painful.

    There is no cure for herpes simplex. Once a person has the virus, it remains in the body. The virus lies inactive in the nerve cells until something triggers it to become active again.

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    Herpes simplex – symptoms and diagnosis, prices for the treatment of herpes simplex in Moscow at the Hadassah clinic

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    Herpes simplex (herpes virus type 1,2) is an infectious disease that manifests itself mainly in the appearance of blisters on the skin or mucous membranes. Symptoms occur mainly in the lips, eyelids or genitals. Herpes affects more women than men. Herpes simplex type 1 is the main cause of

    blisters characteristic of this disease in the area of ​​the lips. Herpes simplex type 2 blisters appear mainly in the genital area. The disease of herpes simplex most often does not lead to death. It can be life-threatening for infants (if the virus enters the brain and causes encephalitis) and for patients with weakened immune systems.

    Show all

    Herpes infection symptoms

    HSV-1 appears as clear and fluid-filled blisters. Herpes simplex virus type 1 rarely causes pimples on the genitals – mostly on the face. When initially infected with the virus, acne appears only in about 10% of patients 2-20 days after contact with an infectious person. There may be several wounds or one. Before the appearance of acne, there are such precursors as itching and burning of the skin.

    A pimple may burst when struck or scratched and release fluid. After the wound heals, a crust remains on it, which dries up and leaves. The duration until recovery is about 10 days. At the end of the recovery, the skin usually recovers completely.

    Even after the initial wound has healed, the virus remains in the body. It penetrates the nerve cells and remains in them in an inactive state until the right conditions arise. Any “awakening” can cause bubbles to appear in or near the same spot.

    Primary infection with herpes simplex virus type 2 usually presents with blisters on the surface of the genitals, buttocks, or cervix 2 to 20 days after exposure to a carrier of the virus. Herpes simplex virus type 2 can cause symptoms to appear elsewhere, but it usually attacks below the waist. A second outbreak of the virus can cause the symptoms of a herpes infection, such as itching, painful pimples, fever, muscle pain, and burning when urinating.

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    Causes of herpes simplex

    The herpes virus is transmitted by direct contact of infected skin with the skin of a healthy person, in the mouth or genital area. The penetration of the virus is possible only through a skin defect (wound or scratch), mainly in the area of ​​the penis and vulva, rectum and cervix.

    Most cases of herpes simplex type 1 infection occur in childhood through close contact with peers or family members who carry the virus. The infection can be transmitted with a kiss, through ordinary cutlery or lipstick.

    Herpes type 2 infection usually occurs through sexual contact with a carrier of the virus. The virus is present in 20% of sexually active people. As far as we know, this form of infectious disease (genital herpes type 2) cannot be contracted through contact with objects such as a toilet seat, toilet paper or towel. This is because the herpes virus is very sensitive to environmental conditions and does not survive outside the body.

    Among the predisposing factors activating the “dormant” virus in the body are:

    • colds;
    • fever;
    • prolonged sun exposure;
    • menstrual cycle;
    • severe emotional stress;
    • injury to the skin or mucosa.

    With both types of herpes simplex, the recurrence rate can vary. Pimples can spread to different parts of the body due to constant scratching.

    Methods for the diagnosis of herpes virus 1.2 type

    Herpes is relatively easy to diagnose. Usually, the diagnosis of herpes type 1.2 is necessary for patients suffering from impaired immune function, those undergoing chemotherapy and patients with AIDS. The following diagnostic measures are recommended:

    Laboratory tests

    include microscopic and other tests of blood or fluid from the pimple to detect antibodies against the virus; some tests are valid only in the initial stages of the disease

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    Treatments for herpes simplex

    Existing technologies do not allow to clear the hereditary material of the virus from the DNA of nerve cells, and the displacement of the ganglia will cause much more acute side effects (for example, paralysis of the lips). That is why today the disease is incurable.

    Treatment for herpes simplex is directed at controlling the symptoms and preventing complications. Antiviral drugs used to treat rashes are prescribed (Acyclovir, Gerpevir, etc.)

    After stopping the acute process, a herpes vaccine is recommended, which allows achieving a stable remission. Among the physiotherapeutic methods of treatment, infrared and UV radiation, OCU therapy and laser therapy should be distinguished.

    Treatment of herpes simplex in Hadassah clinic

    For the treatment of herpes types 1 and 2, please contact the Hadassah clinic in Moscow. We have doctors with extensive practical experience, we have modern equipment that simplifies the diagnosis.

    Text checked by an expert doctor

    Zhukova
    Daria Grigorievna

    Allergist-immunologist, Ph.D.

    Work experience: 14 years

    Published: 06/29/2022

    Updated: 06/29/2022

    The information presented on the site is for reference only and cannot serve as a basis for making a diagnosis or prescribing treatment. Internal consultation of the expert is necessary.

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    Herpes is a contagious virus that manifests itself in the form of neoplasms on the skin and mucous membranes of a person. After it enters your body, it does not manifest itself for a long time. As soon as your immunity decreases, it begins to multiply, and its multiple symptoms appear. Most people on the planet are infected with the virus, since it is actively spreading and remains in the body of its carrier for life.

    Symptoms of herpes

    Symptoms of herpes manifest themselves in different ways and depend on its type:

    1. Herpes simplex – a group of blisters with a clear liquid inside, on the skin or mucous membranes. His symptoms:

      • skin burning and itching;
      • rarely – chills and general malaise.
    2. Herpes zoster – a group of blisters with a transparent, and then with bloody and purulent fluid. His symptoms:

      • enlarged lymph nodes;
      • headache;
      • violation of the general condition;
      • general weakness;
      • increase in body temperature.
    3. Genital herpes (genital) – rash in the form of transparent blisters, which are localized on the genitals and mucous membranes. His symptoms:

      • burning and pain;
      • puffiness;
      • general malaise and weakness.

    As a rule, symptoms of the virus first appear, and after one to two days, blisters with a clear liquid appear on various places of the skin and mucous membranes.

    Causes of herpes

    The herpes virus can stay in your body for years and not manifest itself in any way. It begins to multiply and manifests itself for the following reasons:

    • lowered immunity in various colds;
    • overheating or hypothermia;
    • nervous shocks or severe stress;
    • intoxication of the body;
    • abuse of bad habits;
    • lack of a balanced diet and diet;
    • excessive physical activity.

    Herpes on the body and mucous membranes is extremely contagious and is easily transmitted by touching and using some household items.

    Prevention of herpes in children and adults

    In order to prevent the development of herpes in children and adults, it is necessary first of all to strengthen the immune system.

    To do this, just follow a few simple steps:

    • observe the daily routine;
    • Healthy food;
    • lead a healthy lifestyle – give up bad habits and play sports;
    • during epidemics of colds, exclude contact with patients, or use gauze bandages.

    If herpes does not go away for more than 10 days or is especially acute, you need to see a doctor to check your immunity and diagnose various latent infections.

    Herpes treatment

    To date, there is no way to completely cure herpes, but a timely visit to a doctor will eliminate the symptoms and prevent further reproduction of the virus.

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