Herpes
Several diseases caused by herpesvirus, characterized by eruption or blisters on the skin or mucous membranes.
Herpes is a super-common infection that stays in your body for life. More than half of Americans have oral herpes, and about 1 out of 6 Americans has genital herpes. So chances are a few people you know are living with herpes.
Causes
When HSV is present on the surface of the skin of an infected person, it can easily be passed on to someone else through the moist skin that lines the mouth, anus, and genitals. The virus may also spread to another individual through other areas of skin, as well as the eyes.
Herpes is caused by two different but similar viruses: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Both kinds can make sore pop up on and around your vulva, vagina, cervix, anus, penis, scrotum, butt, inner thighs, lips, mouth, throat, and rarely, your eyes.
Signs and symptoms
Most people do not experience symptoms for months or years after becoming infected. Those who do have symptoms during the initial period will usually notice them about 4 days after exposure (the average range is 2-12 days).
Many people with HSV have recurring herpes. Over time, however, the remission periods gets longer, and each occurrence tends to become less severe.
The symptoms of herpes can be quite severe and may include:
- blisters and ulceration on external genitalia, in the vagina, or on the cervix
- vaginal discharge
- pain and itching
- tender, enlarged lymph nodes
- pain when urinating
- high temperature (fever)
- malaise
- cold sores around the mouth
- red blisters on the skin
In most cases, the ulcers will heal, and the individual will not have any lasting scars.
Treatment
Medication
No drug can get rid of the herpes virus. Doctors may prescribe an antiviral, which prevents the virus from multiplying. Antiviral medications will help the outbreak clear up faster and will also help reduce the severity of symptoms.
Doctors usually prescribe antivirals the first time a person has symptoms. As recurrent outbreaks are usually mild, treatment is not usually necessary.
Home remedies
Several home remedies can help, including:
- bathing in lightly salted water helps relieve symptoms
- applying petroleum jelly to the affected area
- avoiding tight clothing around the affected area
- washing hands thoroughly, especially after touching the affected area
- refraining from sexual activity until symptoms have gone
Some people find that using ice packs can help. Never apply ice directly to the skin, always wrap it in a cloth or towel first.