Herpes

Types of Herpes

When it comes to herpes, there are two different types that can be discussed. First, there is oral herpes which is one of the most common viral infections affecting the lives of 90% of men and women over the age of 50. The second kind of herpes is known as genital herpes and only affects about 20% of the population. There are two types of herpes viruses; HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 is responsible for most cases of oral herpes and can be a cause of genital herpes in rare occasions. HSV-2 is more known for being a sexually transmitted infection and is the primary culprit behind genital herpes. Both viruses spread through contact with an infected person, specifically skin to skin contact with an infected area of the body. While there is no cure for herpes, you can seek effective remedies for herpes that can control the symptoms very effectively.

Symptoms

One of the reasons herpes is one of the most common infectious viruses in the world is that people who have HSV don't always know that they have it. Herpes usually does not show any kind of visible sign due to the fact that the virus is in a state called remission. When the symptoms do however begin to show themselves it is common to feel itching or pain. Both types of herpes will have periods called flare ups in which a visible rash will begin to form. In oral herpes the visible sore is called a cold sore and will be red and sore. The symptoms of genital herpes can be much worse. In genital herpes the sores can become raises and even rupture causing them to ooze. These sores can pose a greater danger by forming on the inside of a man or woman's urethra.

Triggers

Herpes can be different in every person and it can be very difficult to predict when a flare up will occur. Doctors have however identified several common triggers associated with herpes. These triggers include:

• Stress
• Fatigue
• Menstruation
• Surgery
• Illness

Testing for herpes

If you think you might be at risk for contracting herpes, or have heard from a sexual partner that they have tested positive for herpes, you should consider getting tested for herpes. There are several different tests for herpes that you and your doctor might explore in order to know if you have herpes. The different tests for herpes include:

DNA test - This will identify the HSV virus in your DNA

Blood test - Your blood will be tested in order to search for HSV antibodies

Viral culture - This test involves taking samples for visible sores for testing

Herpes Treatment

Unfortunately there is no cure for either oral or genital herpes. Once you have tested positive for the HSV virus you will have to treat it for the rest of your life. This treatment is aimed at helping sores heal faster during an outbreak, preventing the spread of the infection, reducing the frequency of an outbreak and finally to reduce the sensitivity and pain during a flare up. Treatments consist of both medicated ointments and oral medications. There are many different types of treatments that you and your doctor can explore. It might take a little time for you to find the treatment that works the best for you. You should also talk to your doctor about methods to prevent spreading the disease to others.

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