Herpes infections are of 2 types – Oral Herpes and Genital Herpes .
Oral herpes is caused by Herpes simplex virus Type 1 and Genital herpes mostly by Herpes simplex virus type 2 though it may be caused by Type 1 too .
Oral herpes causes sores around the mouth whereas Genital herpes causes them around the genitals or rectum or on the buttocks and thighs . HSV 2 sores may be caused around the mouth as well .
How does Herpes infection get transmitted ?
HSV 1 is transmitted through kissing and by shared utensils and tooth brushes whereas HSV 2 is caused by sexual contact .
If herpes is acquired in pregnancy it may be transmitted to the baby growing in the womb too .
Why does herpes infection cause recurrences and reactivations ?
Once a person acquires herpes virus , it remains latent in the nerves. It can be dormant for many years but outbreaks can be brought on due to
decreased immunity , fever , minor infections , fatigue , stresses , hormonal changes , menstruation , immunosuppression due to chemotherapy or steroids, sexual activity etc.
Many people may have numerous episodes every year .
What are the symptoms of herpes ?
Herpes simplex virus typically causes blisters which break down to produce sores which are painful . There can be intense burning and pain especially with urination . Sometimes there may be urinary retention due to the intense pain and burning . Some people may also experience discharge from the vagina .
Some people hardly have any symptoms and don’t even realise they have it .
The first episode is generally very severe for most and repeat outbreaks much milder. In fact , a person may be contagious even without any visible sores .
During a recurrence , shortly before the appearance of sores there may be tingling , itching and burning where the infection first entered the body .
Diagnosis
Herpes can be diagnosed by taking a swab from these sores and sending them for PCR tests or viral cultures . The swabs can also be taken from the urethra.
If there are sores that are beginning to heal these may show a false negative results. False positive results are also known .
Herpes can also be tested by antibody tests .
How can Herpes be treated ?
Antiviral medication helps to reduce symptoms and help in healing these sores faster . They also reduce the number of outbreaks and recurrences .
Are there any complications associated with herpes ?
Neonatal herpes is a serious infection in newborns that can be acquired due to herpes infection during pregnancy . It can result in blindness , brain damage and even neonatal death .
Other sexually transmitted diseases may be transmitted through these open sores .
Bladder problems and rectal inflammation may also be caused .
Prevention
Safe sex and using barrier method of contraception is the most important way to prevent herpes . Avoiding intercourse with multiple partners and with your partner if he/ she has an outbreak of these sores is advised .
In pregnant patients who’ve had herpes in the past , a fresh outbreak around the time of delivery can be prevented by taking antiviral medication late in pregnancy ( generally after 36 weeks of pregnancy)
If there are any symptoms that appear like these , please consult your doctor and remember the mantra to staying safe is safe sex … because as we all know ,prevention is always better than cure !
