HerpesHerpes
is a class of viral
infections that approximatly 90% of Americans are infected with one
strain or another. And may be sexual or nonsexual in nature.
There are
over 70 different types of herpes, all of which are caused by one or
more herpes viruses.
Herpes viruses, once introduced to the body, can remain dormant for years before symptoms manifest, usually after being triggered by stress to the immune system. In addition, symptoms can come and go, and even when symptoms are no longer noticeable, it does not necessarily mean that the viruses have been eradicated. Types of Herpes
Although there are more than 70 known herpes viruses, the two most common types are herpes simplex 1 (HSV1) and herpes simplex 2 (HSV2), or genital herpes. Herpes simplex 2 is a sexually transmitted disease, or STD, while herpes simplex 1 is often present in the body simply due to a weakened immune system, not as a result of sexual contact. Both types are very widespread among the population of the United States. Note: Genital herpes can pass from infected mothers to their babies at the time of birth. Newborns infected with herpes simplex 2 can experience developmental problems due to how herpes affects their young nervous systems. This can lead to seizures and/or mental retardation. To prevent this risk, pregnant women should consider cesarean section births to avoid the spread of HSV2. Symptoms Symptoms of herpes simplex 1 primarily manifest as small blisters on the skin and mucus membranes, and as cold sores on the lips and/or along the edge of the nose, which are also known as fever blisters. The blisters and cold sores can be irritating and produce sensations of burning, itching, or tingling. The symptoms are usually no more than nuisances, however, and generally resolve themselves without treatment within a week to ten days. Genital herpes, symptoms of which usually first manifest within a week or less after unprotected sex with an infected partner, initially manifest as a persistent burning sensation or itch on or around the genitals (usually the moist linings that surround the gentials). Within 24 hours, this is followed by small, pimple-like outbreaks and reddened skin in the genital area that can quickly progress to painful lesions and sores and discharge blood and pus. Eventually (usually within a week of the initial sensations of burning or itching) scabs form over the sores and lesions and they start to heal until the next outbreak. In women, the sores and lesions usually occur around the vagina, the cervix, and around the anus. In men, they typically occur on the glans (the bulbous end of the penis), the foreskin of the penis, the shaft of the penis, and/or around the anus. Cause Herpes is caused by one of more than 70 infectious herpes viruses. Outbreaks caused by herpes are most often triggered by physical or emotional stress that suppresses immune function. Nutritional deficiencies can also increase the risk of contracting herpes. Treatment
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