Saturday, December 27, 2008

An Explanation Of Herpes Simplex Virus

By Jennifer King

People have a common notion that herpes is a condition specifically acquired through intimate contact, but that isn't altogether true. Normal direct skin contact may also account for herpes virus transmission. Some people also have it in their minds that the herpes virus could be caught via inanimate objects such as toilet seats. Although that idea of that happening may be highly unlikely due to the fragility of the herpes itself. The herpes virus passes through minute breaks in the skin, or the mucous membranes of the mouth and genital areas. Keeping the skin strong acts as really good protective barrier against this infection.

When it comes to mucous layers of skin, even the miniscule lesion is enough to expose the nerves into which the herpes virus attaches itself to . This is the primary reason why herpes infection usually manifests on parts of your body where mucous layers of skin and normal skin layers join. A good example is the edge of your lip. The virus is believed to be transmitted by sharing razors with an infected person. Unlike normal inanimate objects, the virus will survive in the wet areas between the blades. This disease can also be passed from mother to baby during birth, although most cases show that infants get herpes after the birth.

Herpes can be categorized into oral and genital herpes. Oral herpes are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1). These are generally referred to as fever blisters or cold sores. Fever blisters are often seen as tiny, clear, fluid-filled blisters on your face. They normally appear on the edge of your lips.

Genital herpes, are different, and is caused by HSV-2. This form of virus is characterized by itchy, painful sores around your genitals.

People that have this form of herpes usually do not know they are infected because it has no symptoms. The actual virus can be so tiny it can go unnoticed. Most reported cases noted that their first outbreak was their worst. Many sufferers never get the outbreak again, and some get the virus again after a a number of years.

When one has this virus, be it near the mouth or of the genital region, you will see the presence of tiny, blisters, red bumps, or open sores in the area of infection. These blisters will be very itchy and/or painful to the touch. These blisters will rupture and start weeping, and will someday turn into scabs that heal on their own.

There is no exact cure for herpes, only preventive measures for future infections. Antiviral medications like acyclovir and other similar drugs help ease the symptoms and repetition of oral herpes recurrences. Suitable care for blisters before and after eruption could help ease the pain one could feel during times of outbreaks.

Although herpes outbreaks are not solely connected with intimate contact, if you choose to frequently go with different partners your chance of infection is increased. Knowing the risks should help you make your selections a bit more wisely. And we now live in a time when herpes infection could be the least of your troubles.

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