Herpesis an infection resulting from the herpes simplex virus.
There are two types of herpes: HSV-1 and HSV-2.
People contracting the virus may experience an outbreak on their genitals or around the mouth.
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Both types of the herpes simplex virus are incurable but can be managed with the right approach.
This article discusses the difference between HSV-1 and HSV-2 symptoms, transmission, and treatment options.
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HSV-1 vs. HSV-2
HSV-1 and HSV-2 are both herpesviruses of theSimplexvirusgenus.
HSV-1 typically causesoral herpes, whereas HSV-2 leads togenital herpes.
However, HSV-1 can also cause genital herpes in some cases.
Oral herpes (HSV-1) causescold soresor fever blisters around the mouth and lips.
It leads to genital sores.
How Common Are HSV-1 and HSV-2?
The transmission mode plays a role in those numbers, as HSV-1 is easier to transmit.
Both types can also beasymptomatic(occur without symptoms), making the spread of HSV that much easier.
Oral Herpes Symptoms
You may be infected with oral herpes without having symptoms.
However, not everyone will be asymptomatic.
Once the blisters break, they turn into sores and crust over.
When someone contracts genital herpes, they may experience:
Does Genital Herpes Hurt?
How Long Do Sores Last?
Genital and oral herpes have different timelines.
These precursor symptoms are called theprodrome.
A prodrome is a sign of illness before significant symptoms.
How Does Herpes Spread?
Transmission of herpesdepends on the key in.
The spread of HSV-1 is transmitted through oral contact, such as kissing, touching, or oral sex.
Oral sex can lead to HSV-1 genital herpes.
Other possible modes of transmission for genital herpes are:
Is Someone With Herpes Always Contagious?
Viral shedding is the process that leads to the transmission of herpesvirus.
Shedding of the herpesvirus can occur anytime, even if you are not experiencing an outbreak.
Whos at Risk of Developing Herpes?
There areseveral risk factorsassociated with contracting herpes.
They can be broken down into two categories: health and lifestyle.
People with weakened immune systems are at a higher risk of contracting herpes.
However, condoms only cover a small surface area.
Herpes Testing and Diagnosis
Diagnosing herpesinvolves an assessment of symptoms alongside a health and lifestyle history.
NAATs are used because they are highly sensitive cultures and can detect herpes in many cases.
Should You Wait to Test During an Outbreak?
Without the sores, getting a proper diagnosis is a bit more challenging.
Treatment for Herpes
Totreat and manage herpes, healthcare providers will likely take a multipronged approach.
There is no cure for herpes.
The virus will remain in the body for your entire lifetime, sporadically causing outbreaks.
However, there are ways to shorten or prevent outbreaks from occurring as frequently.
What Triggers Recurring Outbreaks?
Several things can trigger herpes outbreaks, depending on whether a person hasHSV-1 or HSV-2.
While everyone is different, outbreaks are typically more frequent in the first year following infection.
If you contract the virus before becoming pregnant, your risk of transmission is low.
Signs can include:
Living With Herpes
There is a stigma surrounding herpes.
Because of that, people with the viral infection may develop feelings of shame ordepression after getting diagnosed.
They also may struggle with sexual intimacy because of the risk of passing the virus on.
When approaching sex with new partners, tell them about your condition well before engaging in sex.
That will give them time to process the information and make a good decision for both of you.
Being honest with your partner can help strengthen your connection and build respect.
Having the infection does not say anything about your character, who you are, or your worth.
While that may be difficult to hear, being aware of this can help you protect others.
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