Herpes is one of the most widespread viral diseases worldwide and is still associated with stigma as well as with misinformation. The most common experience of those with herpes is anxiety and shame as a result of a dearth of reliable information about the virus. Herpes is controlled and there are millions of people with herpes successfully living every day, enjoying a healthy, successful life. The purpose of this blog is to help understand what herpes is, how it is transmitted, the symptoms and how it is controlled.

What is Herpes?

Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which has two main serotypes:.

• HSV-1 (Oral Herpes): This is the main cause of cold sores on the surface of the mouth but can also cause genital herpes via oral-genital contact.
• HSV-2 (Genital Herpes): This most commonly causes sores in the genital and anal areas but can infect the mouth, too.

When the virus gets into the body it remains there for life, lying dormant in nerves and reactivating at certain times.

How is Herpes Transmitted?

Herpes is transmitted by direct skin contact-even when there are no lesions. Common transmission methods include:

• Kissing or sharing utensils (for oral herpes)
• Sexual contact (both anal, vaginal, and oral sex)
• Contact with an infected site and subsequent contact with other parts of the body (i.e., autoinoculation), this is what is known as asymptomatic shedding.

Symptoms of Herpes

There are many patients with herpes who are uninformed to it, as they may have subclinical or no symptoms. However, when symptoms do arise, they typically are:

A)The first outbreak:

• Blisters or sores on the mouth, genitals or anus that are painful.
• Flu-like symptoms (fever, body aches, swollen lymph nodes)
• The patient frequently complains of a feeling of burn or itching prior to the appearance of ulcers.

1. B) Repeated Outbreaks:

• Less severe and transient sores than the initial outbreak
• Itching or tingling before to a flare-up

Recurrences can be brought on by triggers like stress, disease, menstruation, or a compromised immune system.

 How is a diagnosis of herpes made?

 Herpes can be diagnosed by a physician using:

• Visual Examination: A medical professional can detect herpes by observing any sores that may be present.
• Swab Test: The virus can be detected in a sample taken from an active sore.
• Blood Test: Herpes antibodies, which indicate prior exposure to the virus, can be found in a blood test if there are no sores.

Treatment and Management

While there is no cure for herpes, antiviral medications can help manage symptoms and reduce transmission risk.

• Antiviral Medications (Acyclovir, Valacyclovir, Famciclovir): These drugs can shorten outbreaks, relieve discomfort, and lower the chances of spreading the virus.
• Daily Suppressive Therapy: For people with frequent outbreaks, daily medication can reduce recurrences and transmission risk.
• Home Remedies: Warm baths, pain relievers, and soothing creams can help ease discomfort.

How to Prevent Herpes?

• Use condoms and dental dams, though they don’t provide 100% protection.
• Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks.
• Take daily antiviral medication if recommended by a doctor.
• Get tested and encourage partners to do the same.

Disclaimer

This article is not a substitute for professional advice and is intended for informational purposes only. This article is for general awareness.