Question: I really don’t know anything about STDs [sexually transmitted diseases], but I’ve seen those commercials for Herpes outbreaks, and I’m curious how to tell if you have it and how to get rid of it?
Response: Good question. Herpes is a virus that has two different forms: Herpes Simplex Virus-1 and Herpes Simplex Virus-2. Both types of Herpes are sexually transmissible, however Herpes Simplex Virus-1 is usually associated more with symptoms above the waist, such as fever blisters and cold sores around the mouth. However, both types can be contracted orally and genitally.
It is estimated that one in six adults in the United States has at least one form of Herpes. That amounts to approximately 80 million Americans. People try to brush the idea of STIs (sexually transmitted infections) under the rug because it’s unpleasant to think about, but Herpes alone affects 17 percent of our adult population.
If you suspect you might have contracted the Herpes virus, here are some symptoms to watch out for:
– Recurring rashes with itchy and/or painful sores in the genital region (Note: it is very possible to contract Herpes anywhere on the body.)
– Painful ulcerations when the blister opens
– Burning sensations during urination
– Swollen glands in the groin area
– Fever, headache or a general run-down feeling
If you think you might have been exposed to the Herpes virus, allow two to 20 days for symptoms to surface. However, keep in mind that it could take years for an outbreak to occur. Ladies, this is why it’s very important to make those annual check-ups.
Since Herpes is a virus you will carry it for life once you have contracted it. The average number of recurrences per year is typically four. Genital Herpes is much more likely to recur than Herpes contracted orally. And recurrences are usually at the site of initial infection. Both forms of Herpes are contracted the same way:
– Direct contact with an infected area (even if no sores or blisters are present it is still possible to contract the virus)
– Sexual intimacy (and yes, this includes kissing)
– Oral, anal or vaginal intercourse (Herpes can be passed from the mouth to the genitals and from the genitals to the mouth.)
If you do have either form of Herpes, here are some tips for minimizing and maintaining outbreaks:
– Maintain your general health
– Keep stress to a minimum.
– Keep the infected area dry and clean during outbreaks.
– Avoid physical contact with the infected area from the very first symptoms (itching, burning, etc.) until the entire area is completely healed, not just scabbed over.
– If you do touch a sore, wash your hands with soap
and water every time.
– If you are pregnant, tell your doctor. Herpes may cause miscarriages or stillbirths. Childbirth during an active Herpes outbreak may result in developmental disabilities, serious health damage and death.
– Since Herpes is a virus there is no cure. However, there are oral medicines available for suppressive therapy, such as Zovirax, Famvir and Valtrex. There are some over-the-counter treatments available. However, FDA approval is pending. Herpasil uses the Prunella vulgaris plant as the main active ingredient and claims to prevent the virus from spreading from cell to cell. ViraDerm is a topical solution still undergoing Phase II of the FDA trials, but claims that can sometimes prevent future outbreaks from occurring. Choraphor is a topical herbal treatment containing St. John’s Wort, which is known to have anti-viral properties. This medicine should be applied to open lesions to encourage the healing process.
The idea of STIs can be quite daunting and frightening, but your best defense is to educate yourself. Know the ways of contracting STIs and what
preventative measures you can take. And if you think you have any of the symptoms, do not hesitate to visit your doctor. Herpes is for life – be smart.
