Loader
logo
Cart Call

Home > Blog > Herpes: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Herpes: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Herpes: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Max Lab

May 05, 2023

If you're wondering what herpes is, then you've come to the right place. Herpes is a common viral infection that affects millions of people worldwide. This highly contagious disease can cause painful blisters and sores on your mouth or genitals, leaving an uncomfortable feeling behind. In this article, we will discuss everything about herpes including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options available for those suffering from it. So let's dive into the world of herpes!

What is Herpes?

Herpes is a viral infection that causes outbreaks of painful sores and blisters on the skin or mucous membranes. There are two types of herpes viruses, namely HSV-1 (oral herpes) and HSV-2 (genital herpes). Oral herpes typically affects the mouth area while genital herpes affects the genital region.

Herpes Causes

Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which can infect humans and cause a range of symptoms. There are two types of HSV: type 1, which typically causes cold sores on the mouth and lips, and type 2, which usually causes genital herpes.

The virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted through direct contact with the infected area or through bodily fluids such as saliva or semen. While sexual contact is one common way to contract herpes, it's also possible to get it from sharing utensils or towels with an infected person.

Once someone has contracted herpes, the virus remains in their body for life. While some people may never experience symptoms again after their initial outbreak, others may have recurring outbreaks throughout their lifetime.

Certain factors can trigger these outbreaks including stress, illness, hormonal changes, fatigue, and exposure to sunlight or UV rays. It's important for those living with herpes to take precautions during outbreaks to avoid spreading the virus to others.

Herpes Symptoms

Symptoms of herpes can vary depending on whether it's an initial outbreak or a recurring one. During an initial outbreak, people may experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes. They may also develop painful blisters or sores in the genital area or mouth.

Recurring outbreaks tend to be less severe than the first one but can still cause painful blisters or ulcers around the genitals or mouth. Some people with herpes may have no visible symptoms at all but can still transmit the virus to others through skin-to-skin contact.

It's important to note that not everyone who has been infected with herpes will experience symptoms. However, if you suspect you might have contracted this STI, it's best to get tested and seek medical advice immediately

Herpes Treatment

Herpes outbreaks can be managed with antiviral medications. These medications work by slowing down or stopping the growth of the herpes virus and can reduce the severity and frequency of outbreaks.

There are two types of antiviral medications available for treating herpes: topical and oral. Topical treatments are creams or ointments that are applied directly to the affected area, while oral medications come in pill form.

Acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir, and penciclovir are some commonly prescribed antiviral drugs for treating herpes. These medicines can help alleviate symptoms such as pain, itching, and burning sensations associated with an outbreak.

It is important to note that while these drugs can help manage symptoms during an outbreak, they cannot cure herpes completely. Antiviral therapy may also need to be taken on a long-term basis in order to prevent future outbreaks from occurring.

With our offerings in line with government-mandated prices, Maxlab offers full body checkup packages that cover an exhaustive list of tests for a comprehensive diagnosis of your health. Choose from a range of health test packages based on your needs.

Conclusion

Herpes is a common viral infection that affects millions of people worldwide. It can be transmitted through sexual contact or skin-to-skin contact with an infected person. While it is not curable, the good news is that there are treatments available to manage the symptoms and reduce the frequency of outbreaks.

If you suspect that you may have herpes or have been diagnosed with it, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider about treatment options and ways to prevent spreading the virus.

Want to book a Blood Test?

Comments


Leave a Comment

new health articles

Gastrointestinal Problems: Symptoms & Treatment

Gastrointestinal Problems: Symptoms & Treatment

What is Prostate Cancer? Its Signs & Symptoms

What is Prostate Cancer? Its Signs & Symptoms

How Many Types of Infertility are There?

How Many Types of Infertility are There?

What are the Causes of Excessive Yawning and Home Remedies for Treatment?

What are the Causes of Excessive Yawning and Home Remedies for Treatment?

Pregnancy Contractions: What is it and its Types?

Pregnancy Contractions: What is it and its Types?

What is Leukoplakia Disease? Its Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

What is Leukoplakia Disease? Its Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

Get a Call Back from our Health Advisor

LOGIN

Get access to your orders, lab tests

OTP will be sent to this number by SMS

Not Registered Yet? Signup now.

ENTER OTP

OTP sent successfully to your mobile number

Didn't receive OTP? Resend Now

Welcome to Max Lab

Enter your details to proceed

MALE
FEMALE
OTHER