Herpes is the colloquial term for the generally non-lethal infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. The virus has two separate manifestations; Type 1 (labial herpes) and Types 2 (genital herpes). Labial herpes typically exist around the mouth. This is the virus which causes common cold sores and mouth blisters. Genital herpes generally exists on the genitals. It is important to note that labial herpes can be transmitted to the genitals and vice versa. This section concentrates on the symptoms, causes and treatments for genital herpes.

What are the symptoms of genital herpes?

From two to twenty days after exposure to the virus, one begins to see the first signs of infection. The first signals which indicate that one may have herpes include burning and itching of the genitals. This is quickly followed by the emergence of blisters. The blisters begin as a group of tiny, red, painful spots which will develop into yellowish blisters which burst. What remains is a collection of ulcers which are painful to touch but will heal in about 10 days. While the blisters are active, it is common to suffer from a fever, loss of appetite and/or swelling in the genital area.

i. Herpes symptoms and women

Women's experience with herpes is distinctly different from that of men. Due to the different genital structures, women have a larger area (the vulva) which may become infected. Consequently, women may experience more pain than men when urinating. Furthermore, the virus can often be carried into the vagina to infect the cervix. If this occurs, your physician may ask you to have a Pap test done. This is done to protect you because the incidence of cervical cancer is higher in the presence of herpes. Pregnant women should inform their physician immediately.

ii. Herpes symptoms and men

The most common location for the blister is on the head of a man's penis. However, the virus can spread to the testicular area. Blisters that are irritated by clothing can cause additional pain.

What are the dangers of herpes?

The single greatest danger of herpes is that it can affect pregnancy and the newborn child. If herpes blisters are present during childbirth, they pose a serious threat to the health of the baby. To prevent this danger, caesarian sections are often performed during an outbreak. Herpes is also very contagious; more so when the blisters are visible, but can still be contagious when they are not.

How are genital herpes contracted?

The vast majority of cases are transmitted through intimate contact with the herpes virus. Sexual contact between the genitals is the most common, but oral-genital sex can also transmit the virus. The herpes virus exists in warm damp areas and therefore wet or damp towels could carry the virus, but with less danger. The virus is destroyed by heat so hot tubs are no threat.

When assessing how to protect yourself or partner against herpes, you must ensure that the blistered area is covered. While the best solution is to refrain from sex when you or your partner is having an outbreak, you may also use condoms if the blisters are isolated to the genitals. If, however, a woman’s vaginal secretions leak outside the area covered by the condom, herpes can spread regardless of protection. The best means of protection are understanding the condition and when it becomes active. See your doctor at the first signs of any kind of rash or discomfort to discern if it is indeed herpes, and what can be done to protect yourself and your partner.

How do you treat genital herpes?

There is no cure available for herpes and therefore treatment is directed at relieving discomfort and preventing bacterial infection. This can be accomplished by keeping the genital area clean. Prepare a hot bath 2-3 times daily with some salt added to the water. Afterwards it is a good idea to put a small freezer bag on the infected area. Remember to avoid touching the sores and then rubbing your eyes or other parts of the body which are susceptible to infection. Please ensure that you wash your hands immediately after touching the sores. Anti-viral drugs may also be useful in treating herpes.

Why does herpes recur?

In order to understand why herpes recurs, it is useful to understand why herpes can be treated but not cured. When the virus enters the body during the first infection, it multiplies quickly destroying cells. The body's immune system moves in to combat and kill the virus. Unfortunately, some of the virus escapes and travels up nerve pathways and rests in the nerve cells. The virus may remain inactive for some time but for some unknown reason the virus is reactivated and another problem with herpes develops. If the immune system successfully develops antibodies, then there will not be a recurrence. Normally, the recurrence which does develop is not as severe as the first one.