Found at: http://www.anguillaguide.com/article/articleprint/2377/-1/133/
|
ASK YOUR DOCTOR: Genital Herpes by Dr. Brett Hodge
|
Genital herpes is just one of the many sexually transmitted infections that occur in Anguilla. Approximately 90% of individuals who have the virus that causes genital herpes are not aware of the infection. Like other sexually transmitted diseases, prevention is vital in decreasing the spread of this condition. The physical symptoms of genital herpes can be tremendous, but the psychological impact of genital herpes can also be severe, resulting in feelings of depression, fear and feelings of isolation.
|
|
Dr. Brett Hodge
|
What is genital herpes?
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). The majority of cases of genital herpes are caused by HSV-2. After experiencing a first episode primary outbreak of HSV-2, 80% of people get between 4 - 8 recurrences over the next year. Over time these recurrences decrease in frequency.
Who can one get genital herpes?
Generally, a person can only get HSV-2 infection during sexual contact with someone who has a genital HSV-2 infection. Transmission can occur from an infected partner who does not have a visible sore and may not know that he or she is infected. HSV-1 can cause genital herpes, but it more commonly causes infections of the mouth and lips, so-called “fever blisters” or “cold sores”. Genital herpes is more common in women than men.
What are the symptoms and signs of genital herpes?
The majority of people infected with HSV-2 are not aware of their infection. If symptoms and signs occur during the first outbreak, they can be very noticeable. The first outbreak usually occurs one to twelve weeks after having sex. Symptoms may last up to 21 days. If you have symptoms you may have the following:
• Flu-like feelings
• Small, painful blisters on the sex organs or mouth
• Itching or burning before the blisters appear
• Blisters lasting 1 - 3 weeks
• A second crop of blisters may occur
Symptoms of recurrent genital herpes can include swelling, pain, itching, burning, redness and vesicles, and typically last up to 14 days. Doctors should be aware that many cases of genital herpes may present atypically.
How is genital herpes diagnosed?
The symptoms and signs of genital herpes can very greatly. Health care providers can make the diagnosis by visual inspection if the outbreak is typical, and by taking a sample from the sore (s) and testing it in the laboratory.
Treatment
There is no treatment to cure genital herpes, but antiviral medications can shorten and prevent outbreaks during the period of time the person takes medication.
Things that can provide relief from symptoms include the following:
• Keep the affected area clean and dry
• Use cotton underwear and loose fitting clothing
• Use warm baths with episom salts
• Avoid antibacterial creams and ointments because these hold in too much moisture and delay healing.
How can genital herpes be prevented?
The surest way to avoid transmission of sexually transmitted infections, including genital herpes, is to abstain from sexual contact, or to be in a long-term mutually monogamous relationship with a partner who has been tested and is known to be uninfected and is faithful to you.
Genital herpes can occur in both male and female genital areas that are covered or protected by a latex condom, as well as in areas that are not covered. Correct and consistent use of latex condoms cannot guarantee protection from genital herpes.
Persons with herpes should abstain from sexual activity with uninfected partners when lesions or other symptoms of herpes are present. Individuals should be honest about their sexual history and should tell their partners if they have being diagnosed with HSV-2.
What are the complications of genital herpes?
Genital herpes can cause recurrent painful genital sores in many adults. Genital herpes is also associated with psychological distress and some of these individuals may require professional help.
Genital herpes can cause potentially fatal infections in babies during childbirth if the pregnant woman contacts the disease during pregnancy. If a woman has active genital herpes at delivery, a caesarean delivery is usually performed. Fortunately, infection of a baby from a woman with herpes infection is rare.
Conclusion
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection that is caused by the herpes virus. While there is no cure for genital herpes, medications are available to shorten the signs and symptoms. Prevention of this infection is important in halting the spread of the distressing illness.
Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. Dr. Brett Hodge is an obstetrician/gynaecologist and family doctor who has over twenty years in clinical practice. Dr. Hodge has a medical practice in the Johnson Building in The Valley.