Herpes is a very nasty virus that affects your physical and emotional health. And the bad news is if you already have the virus in your blood, it can stay with you for the rest of your life.
Yes, herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). This virus has two types, which can cause oral or genital herpes. By the way, herpes sores and blisters can also appear in and around the mouth, nose, or eyes.
The virus spreads easily through skin-to-skin contact. Also, you may get HSV by contacting infected objects. HSV-1 is the most common type of herpes. It causes cold sores on the lips and around the mouth. HSV-2 is another type of herpes and is even more unpleasant. It causes genital sores. Both types of this virus are highly contagious and can cause annoying pain.
Mostly, you may get the virus through contact with someone who already has it while kissing or having sex. It can also be transmitted through sharing utensils or razors. You could also get the virus from your biological mother if she had an active infection during childbirth.
Herpes is a chronic infection, but it can be treated with medication that can alleviate symptoms and shorten the duration of outbreaks.
Symptoms of Herpes
If you notice the appearance of one or more blisters on or around your lips, nose, or genitals, it probably means that you have one or both types of the herpes simplex virus.
The blisters may rupture at any minute and release virus-containing fluid. Through skin-to-skin contact, this fluid will spread the infection to other parts of the body. So be careful and do not damage the pimple. You may also want to contact your dermatologist for advice about the treatment.
HSV infection develops within 2–14 days after exposure to the virus. And besides sores and blisters, it may cause fever, muscle aches and pains, fatigue, headache, and swollen lymph nodes in the neck and other regions of the body.
After the initial infection, the virus remains dormant in your nerve cells and can reactivate at any moment.
If you started having sex at a young age, had multiple sex partners, have a history of any sexually transmitted infection, or have a weakened immune system, you are more likely to get the virus. In addition, you should know that HSV is transmitted from mother to child at birth and while having unprotected sex. So, if you want to minimize the chances of getting HSV, use condoms for intercourse and dental dams for oral sex.
How to treat herpes
Although herpes is incurable, some treatments can be very effective in alleviating symptoms.
Using antiviral medication can reduce the effectiveness and duration of epidemics. This may also help to reduce virus transmission. A wide range of antiviral medications, including topical and oral formulations, are currently available.
For example, you can go to any pharmacy and find Herpesyl, Blisterol, Herpa Greens, Forti Prime, or Tonic Greens there.
If you don’t want or have no opportunity to use medicines, home remedies can also be used to treat herpes. For example, applying a warm compress to the affected area may help some people relieve pain and discomfort. Others find solace in a cool bath or shower. Taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help.
Herpes is a common but serious virus, that although there is no cure, being aware of the symptoms, causes, and treatments will aid in the timely diagnosis and management of your condition. It is possible to alleviate the physical and emotional discomfort associated with herpes infections with proper treatment.
