What You Need To Understand About Herpes!
Literally everyone on the planet (past and present) has had herpes.
All right, at that may be a slight exaggeration of the truth, but the reality is that medical professionals agree that nearly 90% of all adults (and children) have a form of the herpes virus active inside of their bodies.
So the next time that you break out in a vicious cold sore (or have herpes somewhere else on your body), don’t be instantly and immediately shamed by the fact – understand that almost everyone you know is probably dealing with the exact same kind of condition on a regular basis as well.
That being said, it’s critical that you understand the herpes virus (as well as the two major branches of this viral strain) so that you’re able to best combat it and try to cut down on its impact on your life. Too many people are under the impression that because herpes is incurable (as all viruses are) that it cannot be effectively treated and forced to go “dormant” in our bodies, where nothing could be further from the truth.
You’ll get the inside information you’ve been looking for from doctors right here in this quick and easy to read guide to herpes, as well as a handful of effective strategies to treat and eliminate herpes as best you possibly can.
Let’s dive right in!
It’s critical that you understand exactly what herpes is in the first place
To believe that herpes is some sort of medical condition that can be hit with medicines, creams, and salves to eliminated entirely from your life is a major mistake.
Herpes is first and foremost a viral infection, not some underlying medical condition that you can eliminate it entirely from your body. Like all the viral infections, herpes mutates the moment that it hits your blood – changing it just enough from any other herpes virus that there is no “one size fits all” treatment to this major issue.
Luckily, herpes has (as of yet) not transformed into a life-threatening or deadly disease or issue – more than annoyance than anything else. Knowing that herpes is a viral infection that will never leave your body is critical to approaching the necessary steps to mitigate herpes, force it to go dormant inside of your body, and eliminate flareups and that can be such a big issue moving forward.
Also understand that there are two major types of herpes
This is another interesting wrinkle in an herpes brings to the table, and one that you need to be well aware of. Herpes splits into two distinct and different viruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2), with a HSV-1 being the most common of the bunch.
Most associated with oral herpes (herpes that manifests inside and around your mouth), studies suggest that nearly 90% of all adults by the age of 40 have already been infected and are living with this type of herpes.
The second type, HSV-2, is most associated with genital herpes –though not always manifesting in that region. This is a much more embarrassing condition to deal with (which is why so many people check with online doctors before going to their traditional doctor) to get help and assistance. It’s also the type of herpes that can be transferred sexually, making a one night stand anything but.
What is herpes, anyway?
Herpes is a virus that affects the skin or nervous system. It is present even when there are no outward symptoms and it can be transmitted from person to person even when there are no indications of infection. Indeed, a person who has herpes may not even know they have it.
HSV-1
Herpes Simplex-1 is usually noticed in outbreaks of sores around the mouth more commonly referred to as “fever blisters” because they seem to occur more often when a person is experiencing flu-like symptoms. Stress can also cause outbreaks. This type of herpes can be spread through contact and sharing items like toothbrushes and utensils.
HSV-2
Herpes Simplex-2 also may show with blisters and sores located around the mouth, rectum and genitals. Transmission usually occurs through sexual contact ( mouth to mouth, genital to mouth, or anal contact) with a person already infected with HSV-2. HSV-2 is often called Genital Herpes.
Effective treatments for the herpes virus
As mentioned above, the herpes virus (in its dual forms) can never truly be eradicated or eliminated from the human body. This is because it takes on a form of its own, almost re-creating itself entirely the moment that it attaches itself to your DNA. This makes it very difficult to target, eliminate, and flush out of your body – specifically because the markers responsible for this virus have had a chance to mutate and may not be responding to the medical implementations you’ve rolled out.
That being said, there are a handful or more of truly affected treatments for the herpes virus – chemical concoctions, topical solutions, and even surgical issues if you have a very serious case.
You must understand that prescriptions are probably one of the most popular ways to treat herpes viruses, but you’ll always want to speak with a trusted and licensed medical professional (not just a single doctor) he for you invest in these types of solutions. All prescription medicines have the very serious side effects and possible repercussions you must be aware of before moving forward with them.
There are also a number of all-natural solutions that you can invest in, including topical creams, lotions, and supplements that promise to force herpes virus to go dormant because of their unique and often proprietary blend of ingredients. This is a more “inside out” treatment for the herpes virus, and while it may take a little bit longer to see results they can actually prove to be safer in the long run.
Again, it’s up to you entirely which type of intervention you decide to move forward with – but understanding that there are options gives you hope to combat the herpes virus.
So the next time that you’re suffering from a flareup of herpes, understand completely that you are nowhere near alone. The overwhelming majority of the global population – yes, global population – is also living with the herpes virus inside of their bodies, and with the right approach you should be able to mitigate its impact almost right away.
Rely on the assistance that you can get from different doctors, focus on prescription solutions if you feel comfortable (and have been recommended) to use them, and don’t be afraid of seeking out professional medical assistance and your earliest convenience.
What Does Herpes Look Like?
For some men and women there are no symptoms at all to herpes. It can remain dormant in the body following exposure and never cause a physical outbreak. For most, however, Herpes Symptoms include oral sores on and around the mouth for HSV1 and genital warts, redness, itching and a rash for HSV2. During an outbreak, those infected with herpes should avoid physical contact with sexual partners. When the virus is dormant and an outbreak isn’t visible, protection should be used at all times during sexual intercourse.
The first outbreak of a case of genital warts may just appear as redness, raised bumps, and a rash, but the next outbreak is likely to include warts, which form in clusters. These warts are sore, itchy, and can weep. Special care must be taken toward hygiene during an outbreak to reduce the possibility of an infection. Topical creams help reduce discomfort, while oral medication relieves and lessens symptoms.
If a doctor tells a patient that he or she has herpes, it often feels like the death knell of a good and happy life, but it needn’t be the case. People who have Herpes Simplex 1 and 2 can live full and happy sex lives, even if just a little more carefully.
How is Herpes Spread?
Herpes is spread through contact with the infection, and through bodily fluids. During an outbreak of oral herpes, for example, if somebody with a cold sore kisses their partner, the partner could become infected as well. Unfortunately, it isn’t just kissing which passes cold sores; any activity which allows saliva to be passed from one person to another, such as sharing a cup, lip gloss, a straw, or a bite off the same fork can spread HSV1.
HSV2 is passed during a genital warts outbreak, when one partner comes into contact with another partner. While the most common way to pass the virus is during an outbreak, the virus can still be contracted when the warts aren’t present, so it’s important to be open and honest with a sexual partner if you’re infected.
For women it’s even more important to be cautious about herpes, as it can be passed through child birth, or while breast feeding if a child’s mouth contacts a sore. The U.S. Department of Health and Services and the Office of Women’s Health reports on the subject of women and HSV 1 and 2, writing, “Genital herpes is usually spread by having vaginal, oral, or anal sex. One in five women ages 14 to 49 has genital herpes. There is no cure for herpes. But you can take medicine to prevent outbreaks and to lower your risk of passing genital herpes to your partner.”
If you notice signs or symptoms of herpes, speak to your doctor. Herpes is not a life sentence, and those infected can lead perfectly normal and healthy lives with proper treatment. If you are unable to reach your doctor for a prescription refill, many telemedicine services will provide prescription services which deliver to local pharmacies in your area.
Symptoms for the viruses
Unfortunately, this virus can be transmitted even when no outbreak or other outward signs are present, so it is wise to take precautions to avoid transmitting or contracting this incurable condition. There are some physical symptoms that may help you know which form you have, but it is still best to get diagnosed and tested by a doctor.
Often times a person can be a carrier and show not outward signs, but is still able to transmit the virus. Some symptoms are rather mild, with a “cold sore” located near the lips. Genital herpes, or HSV-2, may show up with blisters around the mouth, anus, or genitals. These blisters may break and become quite painful for about 2 to 3 weeks during an outbreak. A person can actively spread their outbreaks by scratching the open sores and then touching another part of their own body that has an open sore or is a sensitive area of the body, such as the eyes.
How is Herpes Diagnosed?
If you suspect you have herpes a visit to the doctor is paramount. The doctor will perform a visual inspection of any sores that are present and may be able to confirm herpes is present that way. To get a better idea of which type a person has a sample from a sore can be taken and tested. Blood tests are also available for diagnosis.
You are not alone
It is important to understand that you are not alone with this virus and you are not a pariah. Every year more than 775,000 people contract herpes and it is common in the USA among people between the ages of 14 and 49. Both men and women can contract and transmit herpes.
Your sex life need not come to an end because you are infected with this incurable virus. Your doctor can help you understand your condition and how you can reduce outbreaks and reduce the chances of giving the virus to a sexual partner.
Condoms do help prevent transmission in genital contact, but are not effective for mouth to mouth contact, so keep that in mind. The best way to prevent transmission is sexual abstinence, but it is not optimal. The very best way to prevent contracting herpes while remaining sexually active is to remain in a mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who does not have herpes.
If you have herpes, either simplex 1 or 2, you should abstain from sexual contact during sex and avoid sharing utensils and toothbrushes during outbreaks. You also have a responsibility to tell your sexual partners that you have herpes and explain how to prevent transmission to their bodies.
Are there complications to protect against?
Although herpes is generally not dangerous or deadly, it can have some consequences that are unexpected. One such complication is when a woman is having an outbreak during a pregnancy or during childbirth. If your doctor is aware that you have herpes, they will take precautions during childbirth, such as provide caesarean birth rather than vaginal birth.
If a person develops herpes encephalitis it can be deadly if left untreated. It can also cause blindness if the person who has it scratches an open sore and then touches the eyes with the same hand. The best way to avoid these conditions is to avoid scratching the sores and to seek proper medical care.
If a person has a suppressed immune system, complication can arise. Proper medical treatment can reduce these complications. If a person has HIV/AIDS they may incur complications with herpes. Cancers patients who are undergoing chemotherapy are more vulnerable to herpes transmission and due to their suppressed immune systems; they may incur complications from herpes.
The bottom line with herpes
Although it feels like the end of the world when a doctor or other medical practitioner tells you that you have herpes, you must understand that there are ways to live with the virus and still enjoy life. Think about it this way: You now get to live a more purposeful and intentional life with careful thought and actions rather than merely being a bystander traveling through it.
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