Treating hsv-1. Herpes Simplex Virus Treatment: Effective Strategies for Managing HSV-1 and HSV-2
How is herpes simplex virus diagnosed. What are the most effective treatments for HSV-1 and HSV-2. Can herpes be cured completely. How can you prevent the spread of herpes. What are the long-term effects of living with herpes.
Understanding Herpes Simplex Virus: Types, Symptoms, and Transmission
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common viral infection that affects millions of people worldwide. There are two main types of HSV: HSV-1 and HSV-2. While HSV-1 is typically associated with oral herpes (cold sores), and HSV-2 with genital herpes, both types can cause infections in either location.
HSV is characterized by periodic outbreaks of painful blisters or sores on the skin or mucous membranes. These outbreaks can be triggered by various factors, including stress, illness, or hormonal changes. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with infected skin or bodily fluids, making it highly contagious during active outbreaks.
Key Symptoms of Herpes Simplex Virus
- Painful blisters or sores on the mouth, genitals, or rectum
- Itching or tingling sensation before outbreak
- Flu-like symptoms during initial outbreak
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Fever and body aches
Is herpes always symptomatic. No, many people with HSV are asymptomatic or experience mild symptoms that go unnoticed. This asymptomatic nature contributes to the virus’s widespread transmission, as individuals may unknowingly infect their partners.
Diagnosis of Herpes Simplex Virus: Methods and Accuracy
Accurate diagnosis of herpes simplex virus is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of transmission. Healthcare providers employ various methods to diagnose HSV infections, each with its own advantages and limitations.
Common Diagnostic Methods for HSV
- Visual Examination: A healthcare provider may visually inspect the affected area for characteristic signs of herpes lesions.
- Viral Culture: A sample is taken from an active sore and cultured to grow the virus for identification.
- Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Test: This highly sensitive test detects the presence of HSV DNA in a sample.
- Blood Tests: Serological tests can detect HSV antibodies in the blood, indicating past or current infection.
Which diagnostic method is most accurate for herpes. PCR testing is generally considered the gold standard for HSV diagnosis due to its high sensitivity and specificity. However, the choice of diagnostic method often depends on the presence of active lesions and the stage of infection.
Treatment Options for Herpes Simplex Virus: Managing Symptoms and Reducing Outbreaks
While there is no cure for herpes simplex virus, various treatment options can help manage symptoms, reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks, and lower the risk of transmission. The primary goals of HSV treatment are to alleviate discomfort, promote healing of lesions, and suppress viral replication.
Antiviral Medications: The Cornerstone of HSV Treatment
Antiviral drugs are the mainstay of herpes treatment. These medications work by inhibiting viral replication, thereby reducing the duration and severity of outbreaks. Common antiviral drugs used for HSV include:
- Acyclovir
- Valacyclovir
- Famciclovir
How effective are antiviral medications in treating herpes. Antiviral drugs can significantly reduce the duration of outbreaks, alleviate symptoms, and decrease viral shedding. When used as suppressive therapy, they can also reduce the frequency of recurrences by up to 80%.
Treatment Approaches for Herpes Simplex Virus
- Episodic Therapy: Taking antiviral medication at the first sign of an outbreak to reduce its severity and duration.
- Suppressive Therapy: Daily antiviral medication to prevent outbreaks and reduce the risk of transmission.
- Topical Treatments: Creams or ointments applied directly to lesions to provide symptomatic relief.
- Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate discomfort during outbreaks.
Can herpes be cured completely with current treatments. Unfortunately, there is no cure for herpes at present. Current treatments focus on managing symptoms and reducing the frequency of outbreaks, but the virus remains dormant in the body.
Preventing the Spread of Herpes: Strategies for Reducing Transmission Risk
Preventing the spread of herpes is crucial for individuals with HSV and their partners. While complete prevention is challenging due to asymptomatic viral shedding, several strategies can significantly reduce the risk of transmission.
Effective Prevention Strategies for Herpes Transmission
- Consistent use of barrier methods (condoms, dental dams) during sexual activity
- Avoiding sexual contact during active outbreaks
- Taking suppressive antiviral therapy to reduce asymptomatic viral shedding
- Open communication with sexual partners about HSV status
- Practicing good hygiene, especially during outbreaks
How effective are condoms in preventing herpes transmission. Condoms can reduce the risk of herpes transmission by approximately 30-50%. While not completely effective, they provide significant protection when used consistently and correctly.
Living with Herpes: Managing the Psychological Impact and Long-Term Health Considerations
A herpes diagnosis can have significant psychological impacts on individuals, including feelings of shame, anxiety, and depression. It’s important to address these emotional aspects alongside the physical symptoms of the virus. Support groups, counseling, and education can help individuals cope with the psychological burden of living with herpes.
Long-Term Health Considerations for People with Herpes
While herpes is generally not a serious health condition for most people, there are some long-term health considerations to be aware of:
- Increased susceptibility to other sexually transmitted infections
- Potential complications during pregnancy and childbirth
- Rare cases of severe complications in immunocompromised individuals
- Possible link to increased risk of HIV acquisition
Do people with herpes have a normal life expectancy. Yes, having herpes does not typically affect life expectancy. With proper management and care, individuals with HSV can lead normal, healthy lives.
Emerging Treatments and Research: The Future of Herpes Management
The field of herpes research is dynamic, with ongoing efforts to develop more effective treatments and potential cures. Several promising avenues of research are currently being explored, offering hope for improved management and possibly eradication of the virus in the future.
Promising Areas of Herpes Research
- Gene Editing: CRISPR technology is being investigated as a potential tool to eliminate latent HSV from infected cells.
- Therapeutic Vaccines: Researchers are working on vaccines that could boost the immune system’s ability to control the virus and prevent outbreaks.
- Novel Antiviral Compounds: New drugs targeting different aspects of the viral life cycle are in development.
- Immunomodulatory Therapies: Treatments that enhance the body’s natural immune response to HSV are being studied.
When can we expect a cure for herpes. While significant progress is being made, it’s difficult to predict when a cure might be available. Research is ongoing, and several potential treatments are in various stages of clinical trials.
Herpes and Pregnancy: Managing Risks and Ensuring Healthy Outcomes
Herpes simplex virus can pose unique challenges during pregnancy, particularly if a woman contracts the virus for the first time during gestation. The primary concern is the potential for neonatal herpes, a rare but serious condition that can occur if the baby is exposed to the virus during delivery.
Key Considerations for Pregnant Women with Herpes
- Regular prenatal care and open communication with healthcare providers
- Suppressive antiviral therapy during the third trimester to reduce the risk of outbreaks
- Possible cesarean delivery if active lesions are present at the time of labor
- Close monitoring of the newborn for signs of neonatal herpes
Is it safe to have a vaginal delivery with herpes. In many cases, yes. If there are no active lesions and no prodromal symptoms at the time of labor, vaginal delivery is often considered safe. However, the decision should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider based on individual circumstances.
Herpes and the Immune System: Understanding the Virus-Host Interaction
The relationship between herpes simplex virus and the human immune system is complex and dynamic. Understanding this interaction is crucial for developing more effective treatments and potential cures for HSV infections.
Key Aspects of HSV-Immune System Interaction
- Latency: HSV’s ability to establish latent infections in nerve cells, evading immune detection
- Reactivation: Factors that trigger viral reactivation and the immune response to outbreaks
- Immune Evasion: Mechanisms by which HSV avoids or suppresses immune responses
- Adaptive Immunity: The role of T cells and antibodies in controlling HSV infections
Why can’t the immune system eliminate herpes completely. HSV has evolved sophisticated mechanisms to evade immune detection and establish lifelong latency in nerve cells. During latency, the virus produces minimal proteins, making it difficult for the immune system to recognize and eliminate infected cells.
The complex interplay between herpes simplex virus and the human immune system continues to be an area of intense research. As our understanding of this relationship grows, it may lead to new therapeutic approaches that harness the power of the immune system to control HSV infections more effectively.
In conclusion, while herpes simplex virus remains a challenging condition to manage, advances in treatment and prevention strategies have significantly improved the quality of life for individuals living with HSV. Ongoing research offers hope for even more effective treatments and potentially a cure in the future. In the meantime, proper diagnosis, treatment, and preventive measures can help individuals effectively manage their condition and reduce the risk of transmission to others.
Herpes simplex: Diagnosis and treatment
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.
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.
Top Picks
Herpes simplex – symptoms and diagnosis, prices for the treatment of herpes simplex in Moscow at the Hadassah clinic
Enroll
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 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
Symptoms of a herpes infection
HSV-1 manifests itself as transparent 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 manifests as blisters on the surface of the genitals, buttocks, or cervix 2-20 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.
Doctors of department
All doctors
Zhukova
Daria Grigoryevna
Allergist-immunologist, Ph.
D.
Work experience: 14 years
Cost of admission: from 9000 ₽
Make an appointment
Zaitseva
Galina Valerievna
Allergist-immunologist
Work experience: 10 years
Admission fee: from 6500 ₽
Make an appointment
9 0002 All doctors
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.
In most cases, herpes simplex type 1 infection occurs in childhood through close contact with peers or family members who are carriers of 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, it should be noted:
- 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 diagnosing 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
By clicking on the button, you agree to the terms of use and processing of personal data
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 the 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
Shilov
Dmitry Yurievich
Allergist-immunologist, Ph.D.
Work experience: 17 years
Published: 07/11/2023
The information provided 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.
prices for immunology services
Allergology
| Primary appointment (examination, consultation) with an allergist-immunologist | 6,500 ₽ |
| Repeated appointment (examination, consultation) with an allergist-immunologist | 5,500 ₽ |
| Appointment (examination, consultation) with an allergist-immunologist, candidate of medical sciences, primary | 7 500 ₽ |
| Primary remote consultation of an allergist-immunologist | 6 500 ₽ |
| 5,500 ₽ | |
Remote consultation of an allergist- immunologist, Ph. D., primary | 9,000 ₽ |
| Remote consultation of an allergist-immunologist, Ph.D., repeated | 7,500 ₽ |
| Remote consultation of an allergist-immunologist, Director of the Children’s Clinical Immunology Service of the Israel Children’s Medical Center Schneider, Nufar Markus | 97,000 ₽ 9014 0 |
| allergen (True test) | 33 000 ₽ | |
| Allergological studies (skin scarification or prick testing), test control and histamine | 660 RUB | |
| Allergological tests (skin or prick testing), 11-15 allergens Allergological tests (skin prick or prick testing), over 15 allergens | 4,800 | |
| Allergological tests (skin scarification and prick testing), 1 allergen | 1,7000140 | 5 500 ₽ |
| Dosing provocative testing with medication to rule out anaphylaxis | 16 500 ₽ | |
| Skin testing with medication 901 40 | 8 800 ₽ | |
| Provocative nasal test with individual allergen | 12 000 ₽ |
| Allergen specific immunotherapy, 1 procedure | 3 300 ₽ |
| Allergen-specific immunotherapy with Grazax, course 6 months | 52,000 RUB |
| Allergen-specific immunotherapy with Grazax, course 1 month | 11,000 RUB |
| Allergen specific immunotherapy with Ragvisax, 6 months course | 55,000 |
| Allergen-specific immunotherapy with Acarizax, course 6 months | 55,000 ₽ |
| Allergen-specific immunotherapy with Acarizax, course 1 month | 12 100 ₽ |
| Drug therapy with Omalizumab (Xolair) 150 mg, including drug cost | 2 8 400 ₽ |
| Drug therapy with Dupilumab (Dupixent) 300 mg, including drug cost | 118 000 ₽ |
Other conditions we treat
By clicking on the button, you agree to the terms of use and processing of personal data
Shares
All shares
ASIT cat allergen European production (ALK company)
More
All promotions
Treatment of herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2 in Kyiv – consultation price from 650 UAH
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) – is considered the most common disease among viral infections.
According to unconfirmed reports, up to 90% of people from all over the planet are infected with HSV.
Prices for the treatment of herpes virus type 1 and 2
| Appointment with a neurologist (consultation, examination) | 650 ₴ | ||||||
| Repeated appointment with a neurologist (consultation, examination) | 550 ₴ | ||||||
| General detailed blood test (22 analyzer parameters, ESR, leukocyte formula) – execution time 1 day. | 200 ₴ | ||||||
| PCR. Determination of DNA of the herpes virus (HSV 1.2) (scraping, quantitatively) – execution time 1 day. | 300 ₴ | ||||||
PCR. – execution time 1 day. | 300 ₴ | ||||||
Antibodies of IgM to herpes virus type 1 HSV – execution time 3 days. | 220 ₴ | ||||||
Antibodies of IgM to herpes virus type 2 HSV – execution time 3 days. | 220 ₴ | ||||||
Avidity of IgG antibodies to herpes virus type 2 – execution time 5 days. | 300 ₴ | ||||||
PCR. Determination of the DNA of the herpes virus type 6 (HSV type 6) (Blood, cerebrospinal fluid. Qualitative determination.) – execution time 3 days. | 280 ₴ | ||||||
Antibodies Ig G to herpes virus type 6 HSV – execution time 4 days. | 300 ₴ | ||||||
Complex “Herpes virus infection of antibodies Ig G” (VCA, CMV, HSV 1, HSV 2) – execution time 2 days. | 800 ₴ | ||||||
| Show all | Hide | ||||||
Determination of DNA of the herpes virus (HSV 1 and HSV 2). Real-time detection and typing
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) – is considered the most common disease among viral infections. According to unconfirmed reports, HSV infected up to 90% of people from all over the planet. Usually, the virus proceeds without pronounced symptomatology, since in the process of infection entering the body, a person begins to “create” antibodies that prevent the herpes virus from actively multiplying. Almost all adults have specific antibodies to the herpes simplex virus.
100% to identify the type of HSV, guided only by the affected area, is not possible. According to various sources, 10-30 percent of the inhabitants of different countries who were examined had various types of mixed viral lesions of HSV types 1 and 2.
The reason for this is that the herpes virus is very common among oral and genital contacts, in which type 1 HSV can “move” from the lips of one person to the partner’s genitals, or, conversely, the virus from the genitals can move to the mucous membranes of the oral cavity.
Herpes type 1
Herpes infection type 1 is a pathology of an agent that provokes a rash on the skin, small blisters, also called “colds”. The causative agent Herpes belongs to the Herpesviridae family. Many of us have encountered this disease, it is quite common today and is the least dangerous of all types of herpes. HSV-1 can only be contracted from a sick person, in whose body the virus itself is present in a latent state, or from an already sick person. How is herpes infection type 1 transmitted? HSV-1 can be contracted as follows:
- Direct contact between the healthy and the sick.
- Airborne route.
- Through personal care products.
To a child from the mother during gestation and delivery.
The virus is transmitted through the placenta, penetrating the uterine organ, or directly through the contact of the integument of the child with the birth canal of the woman in labor.
The virus enters the body through the mucous membranes with overcoming protection. After that, it enters the nerve cells, where it begins to multiply rapidly, and its particles are introduced into human genes. During this period, immunity is activated, so HSV particles go into the nerve ganglia, saving themselves, and waiting for the moment when human immunity weakens.
At this time, the virus begins to multiply again, the symptoms of the disease appear, and the herpes infection becomes more active among people. In other words, there is a difference between a primary herpes infection, which develops when HSV enters the body for the first time, and a secondary one, in which the disease develops at the time of immune problems, and the persistent virus begins to multiply rapidly. So, in most cases, the disease is caused by the herpes virus that is already present in the human body.
The development of pathology often includes 4 stages, which are characterized by their own symptoms. Signs of type 1 herpes infection include the following negative manifestations:
- The patient feels tingling. In the area on the body where HSV will develop in the near future, a pain syndrome appears, begins to pinch, tingle, severe itching and redness develop.
- An inflammatory process begins when a small bubble appears that hurts. It is filled with a clear liquid and eventually begins to grow in size.
- Sores appear when the shell of the vesicle is damaged, a liquid flows out of it, in which there are a large number of viral particles. At this time, the person is most contagious and an ulcer can be seen at the site of the bubble.
- Scab formation develops.
During this period, a crust forms under the ulcer. If you break its surface, then blood will flow and pain will appear. Subsequently, the ulcer will pass without a trace.
The rash on the skin completely disappears in one to two weeks. It is important to carry out symptomatic treatment, which will be prescribed by an experienced doctor. If left untreated, the manifestations will also pass, but this will drag on for a long time.
Neurologists
To the doctors page
Ternopil
Sergey Petrovich
26
years of experience
Neurologist of the first category, vertebrologist
Volynskaya
Lyudmila Alexandrovna
26
years of experience
Neurologist of the highest category, vertebrologist, reflexologist
Minenko
Tatyana Viktorovna
6
years of experience
Neurologist
Zalozhnikova
Elena Ivanovna
27
years of experience
Chief nurse of the highest category
Primak
Irina Anatolievna
24
Years of Experience
Senior nurse of the highest category
Kozak
Natalya Alexandrovna
7
years of experience
Nurse
Popova
Dina Vladimirovna
eleven
years of experience
Nurse
Make an appointment
by ordering a call back or via your favorite messenger
Request a call
Treatment of herpes simplex type 1
If the infection with the virus is primary, then it may be necessary to visit an infectious disease specialist, and with subsequent manifestations of a chronic infection, negative manifestations of the disease can be prevented by using medicines created on the basis of acyclovir.
If a person has time to smear the sore spot with ointment, when the pathology is only at the first stage, then it is possible to avoid the development of the following symptoms of the pathology. If the disease is difficult, then the doctor may prescribe antiviral drugs in tablet form. If a person often encounters a recurrence of a herpes infection, then you should think about strengthening the immune system.
After consulting a doctor, you can use various kinds of immunomodulators. But, any drug can be used only as prescribed by the attending infectious disease specialist.
Herpes simplex virus type 2
Herpes simplex type 2 infection is also very common. Moreover, the incidence caused by the HSV-2 virus is increasing year by year, and this seriously worries the World Health Organization (WHO), since HSV belongs to TORCH infections – pathologies that cause severe developmental anomalies in a child in the womb. HPV-2, unlike HPV-1, is usually transmitted sexually.
Therefore, infection often occurs with the onset of sexual activity, usually adolescents get sick. Just like other types of HSV, the second type virus once entered the human body, remains there forever.
If a person’s immune system is all right, he may not even notice that an infection has occurred, and with a decrease in immunity, a relapse of the disease will occur. It is not uncommon for a primary herpetic infection to develop. This happens, as a rule, a few days after infection (the incubation period can last up to 21 days). HSV-2 is rarely diagnosed in children, they are more likely to be infected with HSV-1 with damage to the lips, oral mucosa and pharynx. However, infection of the baby with HSV-2 cannot be ruled out, especially if he sleeps in the same bed with an adult with HSV-2.
HSV-2 in a child can also occur when infected from a patient with labial herpes, if it is provoked not by HSV-1, but by HSV-2.
Symptoms of herpes type 2
Primary herpes infection caused by HSV type 2 is more severe and longer than subsequent relapses.
The disease can begin with a slight increase in body temperature, general weakness, pain in the head. Against this background, red lesions appear on the mucous membranes and skin of the genital organs, as well as on the perineum and inner thighs, and swelling develops.
Within a few hours or days, the development of edema increases, and then rashes appear at the site of the lesion in the form of a group of small bubbles that can join together to form large bubbles. The bubbles burst pretty quickly, turning into erosions and ulcers that hurt a lot. On the skin, small ulcers are covered with crusts after a few days, after falling off, which usually do not leave any traces on the skin. But sometimes, dark or colorless spots may remain, which disappear after 2-3 weeks.
There are no crusts on the mucosa, but here, as a rule, no traces remain. The acute period lasts 14-21 days. Relapses of genital herpes usually occur within 12 months after infection, then they gradually become less frequent and prolonged.
The relapse is not as severe as the primary herpes and lasts about a week and a half.
Why is genital herpes dangerous? If herpes recurs very often and is not treated, the infection can spread to the internal genital organs and provoke inflammation. Inflammation, in turn, can lead to sexual dysfunction in men / women. Primary herpes is especially dangerous, the prevalence of which is high for pregnant women. When HSV-2 enters the body of a woman in a position that does not have antibodies to this infectious agent, the herpes virus can infect a child, causing his death in the early stages and severe developmental anomalies at later stages.
Relapses of herpes in a woman who acquired the infection before conception, and she had time to develop immunity to HSV-2, are less dangerous – usually, immunity does not allow the virus to enter the fetus. However, one way or another, there is a danger of infection of the fetus during delivery during its passage through the birth canal.
In this case, the infection in the baby is very difficult.
Treatment of herpes virus type 2
How to treat herpes infection type 2? Antiviral drugs are used to treat this pathology. In particular, it is important to prescribe adequate and timely therapy for primary herpes. Timely prescribed therapeutic measures can suppress the manifestation of the disease for a long time.
Genital herpes causes HSV-2, the therapy of this pathology is carried out mainly with the help of systemic antiviral drugs. The dosage and course of application of any antiviral medication is determined by the doctor on an individual basis. Immunomodulators of the general effect are also prescribed, mainly based on interferons.
Topical treatment is often prescribed in the complex – in the form of creams, ointments and gels with antiviral and immune-modulating effects. HSV-2 provokes a sexual infection, which can affect and cause severe consequences during the period of bearing a child.
Diagnosis of HSV types 1 and 2
Diagnosis of the virus consists in the determination of antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2 – LgG and LgM. For diagnosis, you need to pass a general and biochemical blood test. According to statistics, most people on the planet have antibodies to herpes. But the study of TITR antibodies, over a period of time, gives much more information about the presence of herpes in the human body.
LgM antibodies to HSV persist in the blood for approximately 30-60 days, while LgG antibodies last a lifetime. So LgM antibodies tell the doctor about the primary infection. If the LgM titers at the time of the test do not exceed the norm, but the LgG antibodies are elevated, this indicates a chronic form of herpes in the body.
LgM markers increase only during the acute phase of the pathology. The presence of LgG antibodies in the blood indicates that a person is a carrier of the virus.
Treatment of HSV types 1 and 2
The treatment of herpes has the following features:
- It is impossible to completely kill the virus.
