Genital Herpes
Genital Herpes is a sexually transmitted infection caused by a virus. Herpes can be transmitted by direct contact through oral or genital sex. Occasionally a person without symptoms such as a rash, sores or blisters has been known to pass on the virus.
If you have come in contact with someone with herpes it takes about two to twenty days before the symptoms appear. You can develop a rash, sores, blisters, fever, pain, burning urination or a tingling feeling. Your lymph nodes could be enlarged as well.
The sores will take one to two weeks to heal and the virus will stay dormant in the body. Recurrences can happen when your immune system is compromised, you have a fever, are out in the hot sun and get a sunburn, poor diet and stress. A warning sign of an impending break out is tingling.
The two most common types of herpes viruses are type one (HSV 1) and type two (HSV 2). The HSV 1 is usually associated with oral herpes such as a cold sore. Often times children will pick up the type one virus in childhood and can or cannot have breakouts of cold sores for the rest of their lives. This type (HSV 1) seems to be more acceptable in society versus type 2, which is genital herpes and is sexually transmitted. Many people do not realize that oral sex while infected with type one herpes such as a cold sore, can infect a person in the genital area. This ignorance has led to the spread of this virus.
Herpes can be diagnosed by a physical exam from a doctor. Swabs usually taken from the sores will indicate what type it is. One complication of herpes is that the virus can be passed to a newborn baby, if the mother is active.
There is no current cure for herpes. It is usually treated with oral medication. The medication will help to lessen the symptoms and shorten the time the virus is around. There are ointments as well that can help to ease any discomfort from the symptoms. If urination causes burning and discomfort, you can urinate while in a shower. Keep the area very clean and dry and always wash hands after touching an infected area as it can spread to other parts of the body.
Do not participate in sexual relations during an outbreak and always have your partner wear a condom to decrease the chances of contracting the virus. Be honest with your partner about your herpes. They should always be told. Inform your doctor that you have herpes if you become pregnant.
Socially this condition can make it awkward when dating, but many people have gone on to get married and live very fruitful lives. There are herpes organizations in almost all major cities, so Google "herpes organizations" in your city for a support group to help get you through a new diagnosis of herpes.
