Herpes simplex virus (HSV)

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections are common and can cause painful blisters or ulcers. The infection is caused by two related types of the virus: HSV-1, which most often causes oral herpes (cold sores), and HSV-2, which is the most frequent cause of genital herpes. Both types can infect either the mouth or genital area and are spread through direct contact. Once infected, the virus stays in the body for life, hiding in nerve cells and periodically reactivating, which can cause outbreaks.

Common causes and triggers

An HSV infection is primarily acquired through skin-to-skin contact, even when no sores are visible.

  • HSV-1 is commonly spread through oral contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils, and most people get it in childhood in daycare as they share cups.

  • HSV-2 is primarily transmitted through sexual contact with an infected partner, even if they don't have visible sores.

  • Triggers for reactivation of the dormant virus, leading to an outbreak, can include:

    • Stress or fatigue

    • Illness or fever

    • Menstruation

    • Sun exposure or sunburn

    • A weakened immune system

    • Surgery or injury

Signs and symptoms

Many people with HSV have no symptoms at all or very mild ones they mistake for other skin conditions, such as a pimple or ingrown hair. When symptoms do appear, they can vary depending on whether it's the first outbreak or a recurrent one.

Initial Outbreak (often more severe):

  • Flu-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, headaches, and swollen lymph nodes

  • Tingling, itching, or burning where the sores will appear

  • Clusters of small, fluid-filled blisters that break open, ooze, and crust over

  • Painful sores that can take two to four weeks to heal

Recurrent Outbreaks (usually less severe and shorter):

  • Often preceded by a tingling, itching, or painful sensation (called a prodrome)

  • Sores typically appear in the same area as the initial outbreak

  • Heal more quickly, usually within 5 to 10 days

  • Frequency and severity often decrease over time

Diagnosis

Healthcare providers can diagnose herpes through a physical exam and various tests.

  • Viral culture or PCR test: If active sores or blisters are present, a doctor can swab the area to collect a sample of the fluid. This sample can then be tested to confirm the presence of HSV and determine the specific type (HSV-1 or HSV-2). PCR tests are generally more sensitive than viral cultures.

  • Blood test: If there are no active sores, a blood test can detect antibodies produced by the immune system in response to an HSV infection. A positive result indicates past exposure to the virus but cannot determine the location or timing of the infection.

  • Important note: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not recommend routine screening for herpes in the general population.

Treatment

While there is no cure for HSV, antiviral medications can effectively manage symptoms, shorten the duration of outbreaks, and reduce the frequency of recurrences.

During an outbreak:

  • Antiviral medication: Your doctor can prescribe oral antiviral drugs like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir. These are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptoms beginning.

  • Pain relief: Over-the-counter pain medications like ibuprofen can help with pain. For oral herpes, numbing gels can also offer temporary relief.

  • Soothing measures: For genital herpes, a warm bath or wearing loose-fitting clothing can help alleviate discomfort.

To prevent future outbreaks (suppressive therapy):

  • Daily antiviral medication: For individuals with frequent or severe outbreaks, taking a daily antiviral medication can suppress the virus, significantly reducing the number of outbreaks.

  • Viral shedding reduction: Daily suppressive therapy also lowers the risk of spreading the virus to sexual partners.

What to do to prevent spreading:

  • Avoid skin-to-skin contact with the infected area during an outbreak.

  • Use condoms during sexual activity. This reduces the risk but does not eliminate it, as the virus can be on areas not covered by a condom.

  • Communicate with your sexual partner(s) about the infection.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Pink eye

Pink eye, or conjunctivitis, is an inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the clear membrane that lines the eyelid and covers the white part of the eyeball. The inflammation causes the small blood vessels in the conjunctiva to swell, making the eye appear pink or red. Pink eye is very common and can affect one or both eyes.  Signs and symptoms The symptoms of pink eye can vary depending on the cause, but common signs include:  Red or pink eye: The whites of the eye become noticeably reddish or pink. Itching or gritty feeling: You might feel an irritating, scratchy sensation, as if sand or dirt is in your eye. Discharge: This can be watery and thin with viral infections, or thick and yellow or green with bacterial infections. Crusting: Dried discharge can form a crust on your eyelashes and eyelids, especially after sleeping, which can cause them to stick together. Excessive tearing: Your eyes may water more than usual. Light sensitivity: Some people experience discomfort...
Read more

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition where a blood clot forms in a major vein, most commonly in the legs. A DVT is a concern because the clot can break away and travel through the bloodstream to the lungs, causing a potentially life-threatening blockage called a pulmonary embolism (PE).  Common causes A DVT occurs when blood flow slows down or blood becomes more prone to clotting. Risk factors for this include:  Prolonged immobility: Long periods of inactivity—such as being on bed rest after surgery, sitting on a long flight or drive, or having a cast on a limb—can cause blood to pool in the legs and form clots. Recent surgery or injury: Damage to the veins during major surgery (especially to the hips, pelvis, or legs) or from serious muscle injuries and fractures increases the risk of clot formation. Certain medical conditions: People with cancer, heart disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and inherited blood clotting disorders are at higher risk. Pregnan...
Read more

Pulmonary Embolism(PE)

A pulmonary embolism (PE) is a life-threatening medical emergency where a blood clot or other substance, most commonly a clot from the leg, gets stuck in one of the main arteries leading to the lungs. This blockage cuts off blood flow to a part of the lung, which can prevent the heart from pumping properly and lead to a life-threatening lack of oxygen. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent severe complications or death.  Common causes Most pulmonary embolisms are caused by a blood clot traveling from another part of the body, a condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Risk factors for a DVT developing include:  Immobility: Long periods of bed rest after surgery, a broken bone, or a long plane or car ride can cause blood to pool and clot in the legs. Surgery or trauma: Major surgery, especially on the hips, knees, or abdomen, as well as severe fractures, can increase the risk of clots forming. Cancer and other diseases: Conditions like cancer, heart disease,...
Read more