Herpes Information

Common Types of Herpes

Herpes is one of the most common sexual diseases in the United States. One of the things to note is that there are two common types of herpes, Type 1 and Type 2.

Type 1 (HSV-1), commonly known as oral herpes, is usually caused by the herpes simplex 1. It is contracted through contact with infected saliva, mucous membranes or skin. As a result of the infection, painful sores or blisters occur on the lips, mouth, gums, nose and nearby surrounding areas. This is why oral herpes is also known by its nicknames as “cold sores” or “fever blisters.” Though this type of herpes is generally not acquired through sex, it can still be transmitted to the genitals through oral sex.

The second common herpes is Type 2 (HSV-2) or genital herpes. This is usually caused by the herpes simplex 2 and is generally acquired through sexual contact. An infected person will suffer sores around the areas of the genitals or rectum, but can occur in other locations as well.

Both type 1 and type 2 herpes can be spread just through skin to skin contact.

Herpes on Men and Women

Almost 1 in every 4 women has genital herpes. This is probably because male to female transfer is easier and more common than female to male. For men, it is estimated that 1 out of 8 have this form of STD.

However, the symptoms for both men and women are actually similar. It is also good to note that in some cases, the symptoms are mild and are sometimes not noticeable. This is one of the reasons why many people who have herpes are not aware that they are already carriers of the disease. Symptoms are usually felt 2 to 21 days after contact but herpes sometimes takes several months and even years to manifest itself.

Signs, Symptoms and Treatment

One of the signs and symptoms of the disease is fever. Some people complain of feeling unwell coupled with pain when passing urine, and in some women a vaginal discharge. Perhaps the most common characteristic of all genital herpes symptoms are the red blisters which can be seen in the genital area, rectum, thighs, buttocks, and in some women they can also form in the cervix. As also mentioned before, sores around the mouth including gums and even the tongue are common signs of oral herpes.

These symptoms can last up to 20 days and then they will dry out and hopefully leave no scars and marks. Once the infection passes most people think that they are cured, but herpes is a lifetime disease that has no cure. The virus takes up residence in the base of the spine where it can lay dormant for several years.

People with a weak immune system can see a frequency and an increase in the severity of outbreaks. This is why along with proper treatment and medication, finding ways of boosting the immune system is important for those who carry the virus. Vitamins for herpes can be taken along with proper diet.  With food and vitamin supplements, a healthier lifestyle and safer sexual practices, the chances of the virus outbreak recurring will get slim.

One of the surest ways of avoiding genital herpes is to use a condom during sexual intercourse. Condoms, if used correctly, can minimize the risk of contracting the virus. Another option is to minimize sexual partners or to be in a monogamous relationship.

Aside from the risks mentioned above, herpes can increase the spread of HIV, the virus which causes AIDS. Not only does it make individuals more susceptible to HIV but it can also make HIV infected patients become even more infectious.