The Treatment of Herpes

Herpes refers to a virus that can be transmitted by sexual intercourse, or by skin-to-skin contact. Herpes Type I is very common, and causes cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth. In fact in some less developed countries, 100% of children have experienced Herpes Type I prior to their fifth birthdays. Although Herpes Type I can also cause genital herpes, most genital herpes is caused by Herpes Type II.

Diagnosis

• According to the Center for Disease Control, at least 45 million Americans aged 12 and over have had genital herpes. This means about one in five Americans is or has been infected with the virus, which is spread through sexual contact with an infected party. Herpes can be spread even when it is asymptomatic, so you may be unaware that your partner has herpes when you contract the virus. If you suspect you have herpes, you should visit your doctor as soon as possible. Herpes is easiest to diagnose when there is an outbreak- when the herpes sores are present- so if you have sores you should go to the doctor immediately. Early treatment may also reduce pain associated with an outbreak.

Stages of Infection

• The treatment for herpes depends upon which stage the virus is in. Herpes initially begins with a primary stage between two and eight days from the time of the initial infection (although the virus may lie dormant for a much longer period of time than eight days). During the primary stage, the virus usually causes small blisters to appear. The blisters may be so small you don't notice them, or they may be clear or have red irritated skin underneath them. Often, the blisters break and become open sores. You may also have a fever or pain during urination during this period.

  The next stage is called the latent stage- this means the virus is not causing sores or symptoms, but is instead traveling through the body to the spinal nerves.
  When the virus reaches the nerves, the shedding stage begins. The virus begins to multiply, and can become present in saliva, semen, vaginal fluid, or other bodily fluids. The virus can be spread to sexual partners during this time, even though it is asymptomatic.

  Often, after the initial herpes attack and three stage process, a recurrence occurs with less severe symptoms.

Cures

• There are no cures for herpes. Once you have the virus, you are infected and can spread the virus and/or have a recurrence of symptoms at any time. However, although the virus can't be cured, medication can help prevent you from spreading the virus to partners and can help manage symptoms.

Medications

• Certain medications are available to either treat the symptoms of herpes or prevent the spread. Acyclovir, with the brand name of Zovirax, lessens pain associated with herpes symptoms and shortens the course of the virus. Acyclovir may also help prevent recurrences. It is usually applied in cream form, directly to herpes sores, or taken orally to prevent outbreaks. Famciclovir and valacyclovir (with the brand names of Famvir and Valtrex respectively) are also used to help prevent recurrence, and ideally limit the spread of herpes.

Treating Herpes Pain

• Treating the pain associated with an outbreak is an important part of treating herpes. Often, NSAIDs are sufficient to manage pain from herpes sores. NSAIDs are non-steroidal over the counter medications, like Tylenol, Advil, and Motrin. A lukewarm compress may be applied to the sores, or a lukewarm bath may also relieve pain. You should also wear loose clothing and cotton underwear during outbreaks, and ensure you keep the genital area dry and clean.