Genital
Herpes
See also:
Herpes Simplex type II
(HSV-2)
What is
it?
Genital
herpes is an infection that causes small, painful,
fluid-filled blisters on the skin around the genitals.
Who gets
it?
Genital
herpes appears in sexually active individuals.
What
causes it?
Herpes Simplex
type 2 virus (HSV-2) causes genital herpes. Once
you have been infected with a form of the herpes
virus, the virus continues to live in the nerve cells
of the skin or the central nervous system, but doesn't
cause any symptoms. Something, such as an illness,
stress, sunburn, or injury, can cause the virus to
become active again, which causes the symptoms of
genital herpes. The virus may also occur in people who
are taking drugs to suppress the immune system. HSV-2
is contagious and is spread by contact with the fluid
in the blisters. HSV-2 is commonly spread through any
type of sexual contact. HSV-2 can also be spread from
a woman to her fetus if she becomes pregnant while
infected with this virus.
What are
the symptoms?
Genital
herpes may begin with an initial tingling, burning, or
numb sensation, followed by clusters of small,
painful, fluid-filled blisters. There may be fever and
a generally sick feeling. HSV-2 blisters appear on the
genitals, around the anus, and on the buttocks. Women
may also have painful sores on the vulva, on the
cervix, and in the vagina. Eventually, the blisters
are covered with a thin, yellow crust as they begin to
dry, and the pain subsides. Genital herpes symptoms
can occur repeatedly. The first occurrence of genital
herpes is usually the most severe, with recurring
episodes lasting around one week.
How is it
diagnosed?
To diagnose
any form of herpes, your doctor will study your
medical history and perform a physical examination.
Laboratory tests, such a viral cultures and blood
tests, can be performed to determine the type of virus
causing the symptoms.
What is
the treatment?
Herpes is
treated with an antiviral medication that reduces
symptoms and dries up the blisters. People who get
HSV-2 frequently or have severe outbreaks may take
this type of medication daily to prevent symptoms.
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen
or ibuprofen, can help reduce pain. Cool compresses on
the affected area may also provide relief. More severe
pain may be relieved by prescription pain medications.
It is important to keep your skin clean and dry so you
don't develop any other types of infections in the
blistered area. Your doctor might also prescribe some
type of antibacterial ointment to help prevent
infection. There is no HSV-2 treatment that will
completely destroy the virus.
Self-care
tips
You can
prevent genital herpes by using a condom at all times
during sexual intercourse. HSV-2 is contagious even
when there are no noticeable blisters. If you are
sexually active, be sure you are aware of your
partner’s sexual history. If you have genital herpes,
inform your partner. Make sure anyone with whom you
have had a sexual relationship knows about your
condition so they can seek treatment. Avoid contact
with herpes blisters if you have herpes or know
someone who does. Wash your hands frequently, do not
share food or drink, and do not touch a blister, then
touch others or other areas of your body. As with any
illness, it's important to get plenty of rest, follow
a healthy diet, and reduce stress levels. People with
a skin condition called atopic eczema should avoid any
exposure to the herpes virus because it can develop
into a possibly fatal condition called eczema
herpeticum. Contact your doctor if your symptoms
become worse or if the blisters appear to be infected.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
|
