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Herpes Simplex – Symptoms and Causes
Herpes simplex is a viral disease caused by Herpes simplex viruses; both herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) cause herpes simplex. Infection with the herpes virus is categorized into one of several distinct disorders based on the site of infection. Oral herpes, the visible symptoms of which are colloquially called cold sores, infects the face and mouth.
Oral herpes is the most common form of infection. Infection of the genitals, commonly known as herpes, is the second most common form of herpes. Other disorders such as herpetic whitlow, herpes gladiatorum, ocular herpes (keratitis), cerebral herpes infection encephalitis, Mollaret’s meningitis, neonatal herpes, and possibly Bell’s palsy are all caused by herpes simplex viruses.
Symptoms
The herpes simplex virus, causing both *cold sores and genital herpes, is characterized by itchy, burning *blisters that begin filled with clear fluid and heal as sores that open and develop into yellow crusts. Genital herpes, alternatively known as type II herpes, appears as a group of tiny blisters on the genital or anal areas after one week of being infected. The skin first becomes red and tingly before the blisters break out. In women, herpes can occur inside the vagina. Although herpes can be quite painful, the blisters do not usually leave *scars when they heal. (see also Cold Sores)
The initial infection can cause an *immune system response with *fever and tender, swollen glands, and there may be *pain while urinating or walking. After the initial outbreak, which lasts for about two to three weeks, the virus retreats but recurs when the immune system is weak. Recurring infections are signaled by a characteristic sensation (usually a tingling, itching or heightened sensitivity on the skin’s surface) before the actual appearance of the eruption. Renewed outbreaks range from monthly to yearly intervals, becoming less frequent and severe with time, and rare after age fifty.
The herpes virus is not normally dangerous, except when it infects newborns exposed to the *rash during birth, or if the virus infects the eyes. If the eyes become painfully inflamed and cause problems with vision, a professional diagnosis should be made immediately. There is increased risk of cervical *cancer for herpes that affects the cervix, and women with herpes should have regular pap smears.
Genital herpes is not a serious illness, but it can affect a sexual relationship, especially if outbreaks occur frequently. When diagnosed with genital herpes, most people suffer from low self-esteem which worsens when combined with *anxiety about the possibility of passing the virus on to a partner. Any breakdown in sexual activity can create enormous pressure within a relationship and may eventually contribute to a separation. Many sufferers use excuses for not having sex rather than admit the truth, which only complicates the situation. Once an understanding of herpes has been reached, it is best to tell the partner. Discussing the problem with someone close will provide a great sense of relief.
Causes
The herpes simplex virus is contagious from the moment the tingling sensation begins until the sores have healed completely. For this reason, all contact with the skin should be avoided to prevent the spread of infection, and hands should be washed immediately after contact to prevent it from spreading. Herpes eye infections have serious consequences. Once the skin eruption has healed over, the virus retreats into the body’s nerve cells, where it remains inconspicuous until an outbreak recurs.
Genital herpes is transmitted through physical and sexual contact, but a certain susceptibility does need to exist for infection to occur and recur. Triggers which cause recurring outbreaks are highly individual. A weakened immune system, strong emotions such as fear, anxiety and *stress, and exposure to sunlight or heat are common triggers. Some women develop recurrences with their menstrual period.
Informations:
Article using resources from en.wikipedia.org, alive.com.
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