Herpes Is Contracted
Infectious disease experts today affirm that infections caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) are truly common occurrences. Herpes is contracted in two forms. One is by catching the HSV-type 1, which is commonly transmitted by kissing or sharing eating or drinking utensils. HSV- type 2, often referred to as genital herpes, is mainly transmitted through sexual intercourse. Doctors also stress that both major HSV strains may cause painful sores or blisters to form around the genitals, mouth, face, thighs and anus. In addition, the HSV virus is also famous for staying inactive for long periods, and suddenly gets activated either by increased emotional stress, a weakened immune system, and constant exposure to the sun, a heavy fever or an acute illness.
Herpes is contracted as well by simply touching infected skin, mucous membrane or saliva. The painful and itchy sores associated with a herpes outbreak come in the form of small grouped, reddish blisters that grow on infected areas like the genitals, anus, scrotum, vagina, cervix, labia, lips, tongue, throat and lips. The blisters then open up and become raw ulcers or sores, which become watery and crust over. Victims may also fall prey to other herpes symptoms such as an enlarged lymph node, fever, flu-like symptoms, muscle aches, general weakness, or a vaginal or penile discharge.
While most doctors point out that herpes is contracted in various ways, they also agree that this virus cannot be cured or totally eradicated. Most treatment and therapeutic methods today focus on reducing the number of recurrences, as well as in considerably reducing the symptoms. Prescriptions medications such as Acyclovir, Valtrex, and topical solutions like Dynamiclear are commonly-used to help sufferers. Pregnant women who become infected are also warned that they may spread the virus to their infants, and this could potentially be life-threatening to the baby.
Tags: Herpes Frequent Questions, Herpes Information, Herpes Simplex
