What is Herpes?

A lot of people may notice tiny sores at the corners of their mouths from time to time. These sores disappear after some time only to reoccur after about six months or a year. They are usually painless and occur as a result of viral infections. This is a sexually transmitted disease known as Oral Herpes. The cold sores are not harmful by themselves but can be dangerous in a new born child. Another variation of the virus may affect the genital area and is known as genital Herpes.

Symptoms- The symptoms are mild and may go unnoticed in both the forms of Herpes. Genital Herpes is often characterized by a cluster of sores usually in the genital area. It may also be found in the buttocks and the anal area. Pain in the affected area occurs in rare cases though discomfort while passing urine is felt widely by almost all patients infected with Herpes. Itching of the affected part may prove to be an annoying as well as an embarrassing problem. The virus often lies dormant for years manifesting itself only after the passage of a number of years. The initial stage of the infection may also cause flu like symptoms and the patient often feels tired and listless suffering from headaches and low grade fever.

Treatment- You can take certain medications in order to cure Herpes. Specific antibiotics help in healing the sores and prevent reoccurrence of the infection. Taking a warm bath will provide you with some comfort. You need to avoid wearing tight, synthetic garments in order to prevent chaffing of the affected area. Common pain killers like aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen can help to minimize the pain. You can also apply ice packs to the sores regularly.

Precaution- Since the disease is transmitted sexually, it is best to practise safe sex. Changing partners too often may not be too wise if you want to minimize your chances of getting Herpes. It has been seen that people with genital herpes are more likely to suffer from HIV later on in life.