Herpes simplex is a common viral infection. There are two different types of herpes viruses. Type 1 herpes simplex (HSV1), which causes herpes simplex (lips, mouth, face), and type 2 herpes (HSV2), which causes genital herpes. In fact viruses 1 and 2 can be found anywhere in the body due to oral sex.
After the infection, the virus settles in the nerve ganglia of the area and remains inactive. The virus can be re-activated in cases of cold, flu, stress, worry, fever, fatigue, excessive sun exposure, hormonal changes (e.g. pregnancy, menstrual period), low immune system due to medicines (e.g. chemotherapeutic medicines, corticosteroids) etc.
What are the symptoms of herpes simplex?
• Small blisters filled with fluid.
• Numbness or burning sensation a few days before blisters appear.
• Fever.
• Sore throat and swelling of the neck lymph nodes (when located on the mouth/lips).
How is herpes simplex transmitted?
Herpes simplex is transmitted:
• By the saliva.
• By the kisses.
• By sharing the same utensils.
• By sexual intercourse.
How is the infection diagnosed?
The diagnosis is easy due to the clinical appearance. In cases of doubt the diagnosis is confirmed in the laboratory by:
• Specific cultures from skin lesion fluid.
• PCR, virus DNA detection technique.
• Blood test to detect virus antibodies in the patient's blood.
How is herpes simplex treated?
Unfortunately there is no permanent cure for herpes simplex. However, there are medications (acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir) that help to reduce the pain and the discomfort and shorten the duration of the episode. Antiviral medications are given for five days. If the infection recurs more than five times a year, the patient is given a treatment regimen for six months that keeps the virus in repression.
What should I be careful of?
• Avoid kissing with people who have herpes viral infection.
• Do not share personal items (towels, razors etc.).
• Wash your hands frequently.
• If you have HSV-1 outbreak, don’t touch your eyes and genitals.
• Avoid oral sex without protection.
• Use sunscreen.
• Reduce stress.
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