Summary about Disease
Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV-1 and HSV-2 are the two types of viruses that can cause genital herpes. HSV-2 is more commonly associated with genital herpes. The infection can cause painful sores on the genitals, buttocks, or inner thighs. Many people with genital herpes are unaware they have it because they may have no symptoms or very mild symptoms.
Symptoms
Symptoms of genital herpes can vary widely. Some people experience no symptoms, while others have severe outbreaks. Common symptoms include:
Painful blisters or sores on the genitals, buttocks, or inner thighs.
Itching or tingling in the genital area.
Pain during urination.
Flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, and swollen lymph nodes (during the primary outbreak).
Causes
Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It is primarily spread through:
Sexual contact (vaginal, anal, or oral sex) with someone who has the virus.
Skin-to-skin contact with an infected area, even if sores are not present (asymptomatic shedding).
A mother can transmit the virus to her baby during childbirth (neonatal herpes).
Medicine Used
There is no cure for genital herpes, but antiviral medications can help manage the symptoms and reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of outbreaks. Common antiviral medications include:
Acyclovir
Valacyclovir
Famciclovir These medications can be taken orally in pill form, or topically in cream form, depending on the treatment plan recommended by a doctor.
Is Communicable
Yes, genital herpes is highly communicable. It can be spread through sexual contact or skin-to-skin contact with an infected area, even when there are no visible sores present (asymptomatic shedding).
Precautions
To reduce the risk of spreading or contracting genital herpes:
Use condoms consistently and correctly during sexual activity.
Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks.
Inform sexual partners about your herpes status.
Avoid touching sores.
Wash hands thoroughly after touching potentially infected areas.
Consider suppressive antiviral therapy to reduce the frequency of outbreaks and the risk of transmission.
How long does an outbreak last?
A first (primary) outbreak of genital herpes can last 2-4 weeks. Subsequent outbreaks (recurrences) are typically shorter, lasting about 3-7 days.
How is it diagnosed?
Genital herpes can be diagnosed through:
Visual examination: A doctor may be able to diagnose herpes based on the appearance of sores.
Viral culture: A sample from a sore is taken and tested for the presence of the HSV virus.
PCR test: A more sensitive test that detects the virus's DNA in a sample from a sore or other bodily fluid.
Blood test: Can detect antibodies to HSV-1 or HSV-2. Blood tests can tell if you have been infected with herpes, even if you have never had an outbreak.
Timeline of Symptoms
Initial infection: After exposure, it can take 2-12 days for the first symptoms to appear.
Primary outbreak: This is typically the most severe outbreak. Symptoms can include painful sores, flu-like symptoms, and difficulty urinating. It lasts for 2-4 weeks.
Recurrent outbreaks: These outbreaks are typically shorter and less severe than the primary outbreak. Prodromal symptoms (itching, tingling, burning) may occur a few days before the sores appear. The outbreak lasts for 3-7 days.
Asymptomatic shedding: The virus can be shed even when there are no visible sores.
Important Considerations
Genital herpes is a lifelong infection.
Antiviral medications can help manage symptoms and reduce the risk of transmission, but they do not cure the virus.
It's important to inform sexual partners about your herpes status.
Pregnant women with genital herpes should inform their healthcare provider to prevent transmission to the baby during childbirth.
Stress, illness, and certain foods can trigger outbreaks in some people.
Regular checkups with a healthcare provider are recommended to monitor the condition and manage symptoms.