Herpes

Approximately 50-80% of adults in North-America have oral herpes. Genital herpes is more prevalent in women than men, mainly because female genitals can be infected more easily than males. Genital herpes is more common in blacks than whites, and the incidence of infection tends to increase with age.

Though not life-threatening, herpes is a nuisence and can be emotionally depressing because there is no cure.

Possible Causes of Herpes
Oral herpes is spread from person to person by kissing. Oral herpes can be transmitted to the genital area via oral sex, at which time it becomes a case of genital herpes. Genital herpes is spread by vaginal or anal sex, although it can also be spread to the mouth by oral sex, as well. Genital herpes can be contagious even when no symptoms are visible. Genital herpes can also be passed to a newborn baby via the birth canal, possibly resulting in brain damage, blindness and death. Thus, a pregnant woman with genital herpes should deliver her baby by cesarean section to protect her infant from infection.

Possible Symptoms of Herpes
When a person first contracts oral herpes, he usually develops flu-like symptoms, including fever, puffy gums and swollen lymph nodes in the neck. Cold sores usually do not appear until after the first outbreak. If cold sores are present, they usually last seven to 10 days before they crust over and disappear.

Many men who contract genital herpes have silent infections, with no symptoms for years; however, women tend to experience severe symptoms within two to 20 days after first infection. A mild tingling and burning in the vaginal area is usually the first sign of herpes in women. A few hours later, blisters develop in the vagina and throughout the entire genital area. In men, the blisters appear on the penis, groin and scrotum. Painful urination is also common in both men and women. After a few days, pus erupts from the blisters and painful lesions form. These sores can last a week or more and may be accompanied by fever, headache and other flu-like symptoms. Eventually, the sores crust over and disappear. These outbreaks recur, but subsequent flare-ups tend to be less severe.

Possible Lifestyle Changes for Herpes
Having herpes doesn’t mean a person has to give up on having loving, sexual relationships; however, an infected individual must learn to adjust his lifestyle to protect himself and others from the disease.

Oral herpes is more of an annoyance than a dangerous medical problem, but those who are infected should take precautions. People who have the disease should avoid kissing or sharing food with anyone during flare-ups. Spicy, salty foods can aggravate the raw nerves in the mouth, leading to cold sores, so it is best to avoid these items if cold sores are a problem. Also avoid sun exposure because ultraviolet rays can depress the immune system and lead to cold sores.

Genital herpes is much more serious, so more extreme precautions are necessary. Anyone who has already contracted the virus needs to be aware of the disease and inform prospective partners of the condition. Wear loose fitting cotton underwear and clothing during outbreaks to avoid chafing and allow air to circulate around the sores. A mild pain reliever can help manage irritation. Keep the infected area clean and dry to promote healing.

Anyone who has not contracted genital herpes should avoid having sex or sharing personal items with anyone who is experiencing an outbreak. If a person touches a sore, wash with disinfectant soap immediately to avoid infection. Always use a condom, and keep in mind that a condom doesn’t cover everything. Infection can come from uncovered areas, too. Don’t assume you can tell if a person is infected by simply looking. Since many people have herpes without showing outward signs of disease, approach any new sexual partner as if he has the disease.