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What is Herpes?

Herpes

Herpes is caused by a grouping of viruses which cause lesions (sores) to appear on certain parts of the human body, such as in the mouth and genital region. These sores can look similar to cold sores, and they are often painful. Herpes can easily be spread from one person to another, especially when a sore has opened and the person touching it touches another area of the body that herpes lives in. Herpes is also spread in non-sexual situations, like when a parent who has herpes kisses their baby on the lip. Herpes is a lifelong condition, even though the virus remains in nerve cells.

Oral herpes (HSV), and genital or genital herpes are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). About half of adults have HSV-2 and the rest have HSV-1. Herpes in the saliva is the cause of oral herpes, while herpes in the vulva is the most common cause of genital or genital herpes.
Herpes is often not a symptom, so most people don’t know they are infected. Herpes can be spread by sores on the genital region. Herpes genital can impact intimacy but you can still have a fulfilling sexual relationship.

Herpes symptoms include blisters, tingling and burning, pain, and blisters. Although the sores can be very painful, they will heal by themselves. Antiviral medicines can ease symptoms and accelerate healing. These medications should be taken as soon as you can, preferably in the prodrome stage before herpes lesions appear. These drugs can be taken daily to prevent recurrent outbreaks and reduce the severity of an episode.

A healthy diet can boost your immunity and reduce the severity of herpes. The antioxidants in cauliflower, spinach, and kale can help to bind free radicals. Salmon, mackerel and flax seeds also contain omega-3 chain fatty acids, which suppress inflammation.

Herpes is not curable, but antiviral medications such as acyclovir or valacyclovir are effective in treating the symptoms. They can be taken in the form of a cream, pill or injection. If you start treatment immediately after you feel tingling or burning, you can reduce the duration of your initial outbreak by one or two days. You can take them every day to avoid outbreaks.

You can have sex with your partner if you have herpes. Use a dental dam or condom during the sexual encounter and tell them about your condition. A mother with herpes is very unlikely to transmit the virus during vaginal birth. Neonatal herpes is a serious condition that affects babies born with herpes. Herpes can also be transmitted to babies by a parent who has cold sores or a kiss.
If you would like to speak with a Doctor who is an expert in the field or has Australian training, please contact us. Book an online Telehealth consultation. We are always here for you, 24/7. Contact info@clinicall.com.au.