Symptoms of Herpes (herpes information)
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The symptoms of herpes can be varied. Depending which strain of the
herpes virus you have contracted will effect the symptoms associated
with the herpes virus. Below is an outline of the different types of
herpes viruses so you will have a better understanding of the virus, the
symptoms associated with the virus, how to treat the herpes virus, etc.
Herpes is Greek is herpein meaning "to creep". The
Latin name is appropriate describing the way herpetic lesions "creep"
and erupt in blisters in a serpent-like pattern. The term herpes
pertains to several distinct disorders, herpes simplex, herpes zoster,
Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus.
Herpes Simplex
When people refer to herpes simplex they are
primarily concerned with two prevalent types, HSV-1and HSV-2. There is a
common belief that HSV-1 attacks above the waist and is responsible for
cold sores, while HSV-2 attacks below the waist and is responsible for
the genital lesions. However, both herpes viruses HSV-1 and II can cause
herpetic lesions on the oral mucosa and the genital region. Herpes
HSV-1is primarily the cause of recurrent cold sores while HSV-2 are
generally responsible for the genital lesions. This brings up the common
question can herpes HSV-1 be passed to a partner during oral sex? Yes,
HSV-1 herpes can be passed during oral sex.
HSV-1 infections are tiny, clear, fluid-filled
blisters that most often occur on the face. Less frequently, HSV-1
infections occur in the genital area. Type 1 may also develop in wounds
on the skin.
There are two types of infections termed
primary and recurrent. Primary is the first outbreak if blisters,
whereas, recurrent represent the secondary outbreaks that occur at
various intervals after the primary lesions appear. Although most people
when exposed to the virus get infected, only 10% will actually develop
lesions when this infection occurs. The lesions of a primary infection
appear two to twenty days after contact with an infected person and can
last from seven to ten days.
Fortunately, there is now an
antiviral drug, Acyclovir, that will reduce the symptoms of herpes
virus, the severity of the outbreaks and any pain associated with the
herpes simplex outbreaks
(click here for details).
Symptoms of Herpes Virus (HSV-1)
The number of blisters varies from one to a group
of blisters. Prior to the blisters appearing there may be a prodromal
period were the skin may be very sensitive or actually itch. Once the
blisters appear they can be very sensitive and painful and eventually
break permitting the fluid inside the blisters to ooze and crust.
The lesions from the primary infection general
heal completely without leaving a scar. However, the herpes virus that
caused the initial infection remains dormant in the nerves cells of the
body. The virus can remain dormant for years or recurrent infections can
occur at various intervals. Recurrent infections may occur in the same
location or a nearby site. The recurrent infections tend to be milder
than the primary infections and are often related to stress, fevers, sun
exposure, menstrual periods etc.
The following pictures represent common lesions
associated with
herpes HSV - 1
Common Ulcers Associated With Herpes HSV-1
Herpes HSV-2 Information
Herpes HSV-2 virus is primarily responsible for
the herpetic lesions in the genital area. These lesions are
characterized by the formation of painful fluid-filled blisters on the
genital organs of both men and women.
Genital herpes
is spread via sexual contact from person to person via oral, vaginal
and anal sexual activity. Contrary to popular myths one does not
contract the herpes virus from toilet seats, swimming pools, door knobs,
etc.
HSV-2 herpes viruses has recurrent infections very
similar to the recurrent infections described for the HSV-1 virus.
Recurrent infections may occur in the same location or a nearby site.
The recurrent infections tend to be milder than the primary infections
and are often related to stress, fevers, sun exposure, menstrual period,
etc.
Fortunately, there is now an
antiviral drug, Acyclovir, that will reduce the symptoms of herpes
virus, the severity of the outbreaks and any pain associated with the
herpes simplex outbreaks
(click here for details).
The prevalence of herpes HSV-2 infection in Europe
alone has been estimated by the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention that some 21.1% of the population of individuals ages 12
years and older had antibodies to herpes HSV-2. This means that some 45
million Europeans have been exposed at some point to the herpes simplex
HSV-2 virus.
The herpes simplex virus may also infect the eye
and lead to a condition called herpes keratitis. This presents as pain
and light sensitivity often with a discharge, and/or a gritty sensation
in the eye. Scarring of the eye may result without the proper treatment.
Any patient with a suspected eye infection secondary for the herpes
virus should be seen immediately by an ophthalmologist.
HSV-1 and HSV-2 can be found and transmitted from
the herpetic lesions. However, the herpetic lesion does not have to be
present for an individual to become infected with the virus. The virus
is contagious when their are no apparent lesions present. An individual
almost always acquires an HSV-2 infection during sexual contact with
someone who has a genital HSV-2 infection. HSV-1 causes most infections
of the mouth and lips, however, an individual can acquire HSV-1 in the
genital area secondary to oral-genital sexual contact.
Symptoms of Herpes Virus (HSV-2)
HSV-2 may produces only mild symptoms or an
individual may be asymptomatic. However, HSV-2 can also cause extremely
painful recurrent genital lesions. The HSV-2 infection can also cause
complications in individuals who are immune compromised.
The HSV-2 virus can also cause fatal infections in
infants if the mother is shedding virus at the time of delivery. Woman
who have active genital lesions at the time of delivery, will have to
undergo a cesarean section in order to prevent their newborn from being
infected with the virus.
Most individual infected with genital herpes are
asymptomatic, they are not aware that they have acquired the virus.
However, after a dormancy period the initial presentation of the virus
can be very painful. The first episode will usually occur within two
weeks after the initial contact with the virus.
Fortunately, there is now an
antiviral drug, Acyclovir, that will reduce the symptoms of herpes
virus, the severity of the outbreaks and any pain associated with the
herpes simplex outbreaks
(click here for details).
Women can experience a very severe and painful
primary infection. Herpes blisters first appear on the labia majora
(outer lips), labia minora (inner lips), and entrance to the vagina.
Blisters often appear on the clitoris, at the urinary opening, around
the anal opening, and on the buttocks and thighs. In addition, women may
get herpes blisters on the lips, breasts, fingers, and eyes. The vagina
and cervix are almost always involved which causes a watery discharge.
Other symptoms that occur in women are: painful or difficult urination
(83%), swelling of the urinary tube (85%), meningitis (36%), and throat
infection (13%). Most women develop painful, swollen lymph nodes
(lymphadenopathy) in the groin and pelvis. Approximately one in ten
women get a vaginal yeast infection as a complication of the primary
herpes infection.
Fortunately, there is now an
antiviral drug, Acyclovir, that will reduce the symptoms of herpes
virus, the severity of the outbreaks and any pain associated with the
herpes simplex outbreaks
(click here for details).
Men usually experience the herpes blisters on the
penis but can also appear on the scrotum, thighs, and buttocks. Fewer
than half of the men with primary herpes experience the constitutional
symptoms. Some 30% to 40% of men have a discharge from the urinary tube.
Some men develop painful swollen lymph nodes (lymphadenopathy) in the
groin and pelvis. Although less frequently than women, men too may
experience painful or difficult urination (44%), swelling of the urinary
tube (27%), meningitis (13%), and throat infection (7%).
Fortunately, there is now an
antiviral drug, Acyclovir, that will reduce the symptoms of herpes
virus, the severity of the outbreaks and any pain associated with the
herpes simplex outbreaks
(click here for details).
The following pictures represent common lesions
associated with
herpes HSV - 2
Common Ulcers Associated With Herpes HSV-2
Treatment of the Symptoms of Herpes Virus
Recurrent herpes episodes vary amongst different
individuals. However, most individuals have between six to ten episodes
per year. Recurrent infection are generally less severe than the initial
outbreak.
Following an outbreak the virus then travels to
the nerve cells where the virus remains dormant. Currently, it is
unknown why the virus becomes active again. However, the recurrent
infections tend to be milder than the primary infections and are often
related to stress, fevers, sun exposure, menstrual periods etc.
Individuals should know that the virus may be
active without the presence of the typical lesions. During these times,
small amounts of the virus may be shed at or near places of the first
infection, in fluids from the penis, vagina, mouth or from lesions that
not that noticeable.
Antiviral medications such as
Acyclovir can significantly reduce the
number of outbreaks and the duration and severity of symptoms once an
outbreak occurs. Shedding of the virus during these periods may not be
noticeable if there is no pain or increased sensitivity in the region.
However, you may be at increased risk to spread the virus to your
partner at this time.
Some 80% of all case of genital herpes remain
undetected. Studies show that a high percentage of individuals that
become infected from an undiagnosed partner. Therefore, proper diagnosis
is essential in controlling the spread of the virus.
The
herpes virus often goes undiagnosed
secondary to a wide range of symptoms associated with the infection or
there is an absence of any visible lesions or symptoms. Many individuals
are often embarrassed and distressed and do not seek medical help.
Fortunately, there is now an
antiviral drug, Acyclovir, that will reduce the symptoms of herpes
virus, the severity of the outbreaks and any pain associated with the
herpes simplex outbreaks
(click here for details).
Treatment of the Herpes Virus
Acyclovir will decrease both the
frequency and the severity of herpes outbreaks.
Acyclovir
is the drug of choice for the treatment herpes infection.s
The following also
represent the medications that doctors will also prescribe for the
treatment of the herpes simplex virus. However, Acyclovir remains the
drug of choice:
Acyclovir is effective in treating both the primary infection and
recurrent outbreaks. Acyclovir reduces the healing time, virus
shedding period, and duration of ulcers associated with the herpes
virus.
Buy
Acyclovir online now (click here for details)
Patients with frequent outbreaks (greater than
three to ten per year) will benefit from long term use of
Acyclovir
which is called "suppressive therapy." Patients on suppressive therapy
have longer periods between herpes outbreaks. Alternatively,
patients may use short term suppressive therapy to lessen the chance of
developing an active infection during special occasions such as weddings
or holidays.
Clinical studies also show that there is a
positive correlation between levels of stress and the severity and
number of outbreaks. Stress management and relaxation exercises i.e.
yoga, tai chi, meditation, and hypnotherapy.
There are several other things that a patient
may do to lessen the pain of genital lesions including the following:
- Wear loose fitting clothing and cotton
underwear.
- Using a blow dryer on the "cool" setting to
dry the infected area.
- Placing an ice pack on the affected area for
10 minutes, followed by 5 minutes off and then repeating this
procedure.
- Removing clothing or wearing loose pajamas
while at home
- Soaking in a tub of warm water .
- Topical ointments may be beneficial if they
contain: glycyrrhizinic acid, components of licorice glycyrrhiza
glabra, vitamin E, tea oil, Melaleuca spp, baking soda compresses.
Protection From the Herpes Virus
Since herpes is a sexually transmitted disease
individuals can protect themselves by abstaining from sexual contact.
The consistent and proper use of latex condoms can also provide some
protection against infection. Condoms do not provide 100% protection,
unfortunately, the condom may not adequately cover the entire region
where the herpetic lesions reside allowing viral shedding. If a partner
has genital herpes there should be an abstinence from sex until the
lesions are no longer present.
Individuals should also adhere to the following
to prevent the spread of the virus:
- Practice abstinence
- Limit the number of sexual partners you have
in your lifetime.
- Make sure that you and your sexual partner
use condoms every time you have sex.
- Wash your hands with soap and water
following contact with the sores (already infected with the virus).
- Keep the infected area clean and dry to
prevent other infections from developing (already infected with the
virus).
- Avoid scratching and/or touching the sores
(already infected with the virus).
- Refrain from sexual contact from the first
sign of a recurrent episode until the lesions are completely healed
(already infected with the virus)
Fortunately, there is now an
antiviral drug, Acyclovir, that will reduce the symptoms of herpes
virus, the severity of the outbreaks and any pain associated with the
herpes simplex outbreaks
(click here for details).
Diagnosing the Herpes Virus
An accurate diagnosis can help individuals who are
infected take control of their health and benefit from treatments that
may reduce their symptoms and their frequency of infection. Proper
diagnosis also decrease the risk of spreading the virus to other
individuals. Physicians should take the responsibility to properly
educate individuals who are diagnosed with the disease about how to
protect their partners. The following represent the different methods in
which the HSV-1 and HSV-2 can be diagnosed:
Genital herpes can be accurately diagnosed by your
physician based on your medical/sexual history and visual exam of the
classic fluid filled herpetic lesions. Unfortunately, this method may
not be reliable to make an accurate diagnosis. The active or latent
genital herpes in many infected patients are asymptomatic or the
patient's symptoms may have already resolved by the time he/she visits
the physician.
The following represent the most accurate methods
in which to diagnose the herpes virus.
Virus Culture Detection Tests
In
order to prepare a viral culture a physician must collect cells at the
base of the genital lesion using a sterile cotton swab The sample is
then tested in the laboratory. An individual must have a active or live
infection at the time of the swab test to produce a positive result. If
the herpetic lesions or ulcers have begun to heal the test may give a
false-negative report. However, when active lesions are present, this
method is seen as the gold standard for diagnosing genital herpes.
Serology Blood Tests
When
an individual becomes infected with the herpes virus the body will
produce antibodies designed to fight the virus. These antibodies are
specific to each virus and remain permanently in the bloodstream. A
blood test for a herpes simplex virus can indicate if someone has been
infected at some time during their life.
However this form of testing cannot indicate when
or where on the body the initial infection took place, i.e. around the
genital or facial region. When an individual who does not have HSV-2
first acquires the virus, their body starts to produce antibodies. They
undergo a process called seroconversion which means they go from having
no detectable antibodies seronegative to having detectable antibodies
seropositive. The length of time from first infection to when antibodies
are detectable varies from person to person, and with the ability of the
test to detect antibodies in early infection. Therefore, it is possible
for a person in the early stages of infection to give a negative result
on a blood test despite having herpes.
Therefore, if an individual believes that he/she
has been infected with the virus and the test is negative this
individual should repeat the test in three to four months. The older
blood tests could not reliably tell the difference between HSV-1 and
HSV-2 antibodies, however, there are new commercially available tests
that have recently been developed bringing new options for diagnosing
HSV:
The HerpeSelect™ type-specific HSV antibody
detection tests produced by Focus Technologies can effectively
distinguish between HSV-1 and HSV-2. These kits after collection must be
sent back to a central laboratory for results.
The POCkit® HSV-2 Rapid Test is a single unit,
membrane-based immunoassay for the qualitative determination, either in
heparinized capillary whole blood taken by finger stick or in serum, of
circulating IgG antibodies specific for herpes simplex virus type 2
(HSV-2), which arise as a result of infection with HSV-2. It is intended
for in-vitro diagnostic use by health professionals in Point of Care
testing (the lab work does not need to be sent to a central laboratory).
The presence of antibodies to HSV-2 may be indicative of a previous
infection with HSV-2 and may be of value in determination of previous
immunological experience and to aid in the diagnosis of HSV associated
disease. This assay will not differentiate whether infection is
currently in a latent or active state nor does the test diagnose HSV-1.
Fortunately, there is now an
antiviral drug, Acyclovir, that will reduce the symptoms of herpes
virus, the severity of the outbreaks and any pain associated with the
herpes simplex outbreaks
(click here for details).
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