In our daily lives, the term “herpes virus” may seem relatively unfamiliar to many people; however, it is a very common and easily transmitted virus. Today, let’s dive deeper into this topic, including the causes of infections, symptoms, and prevention methods for oral herpes and genital herpes.
First, oral herpes is primarily caused by the HSV-1 virus, which is usually transmitted through saliva, kissing, or feeding by parents. Most people may not show obvious symptoms during their initial infection; they might only experience some discomfort inside the mouth. Over time, the virus can remain dormant in nerve ganglia, and may reactivate when the body’s immune system is weakened.
During the early stages of reactivation, known as the prodromal stage, patients typically experience itching and swelling of the lips. A few days later, red rashes appear on the lips, forming clustered blisters. According to health organization surveys, about 67% of the global population has been infected with HSV-1, with many contracting it from their parents’ saliva during childhood.
As for genital herpes, 50% of cases are associated with HSV-1, but it is generally attributed to HSV-2. The symptoms of genital herpes are typically more severe than those of oral herpes because the tissues around the genital area and anus are extremely sensitive. An outbreak may cause significant discomfort during urination or defecation, making it essential to seek medical assistance as soon as possible.
For mild herpes outbreaks, topical antiviral ointments can help alleviate symptoms. If there is tingling or if blisters burst, oral antiviral medications are more appropriate, typically needing to be taken for 1 to 7 days. For mild outbreaks, medication is not always necessary, and many people may even be infected without showing any symptoms.
Whether it is oral or genital herpes, prevention is the most important factor. If a partner has not been infected with herpes, precaution must be taken, especially during outbreaks, and sexual intercourse should be completely avoided. While practicing safe sex helps reduce the risk of transmission, it does not entirely eliminate it. Therefore, staying vigilant and learning more about the virus is the best prevention strategy.
Finally, it is crucial to remind those with a history of oral herpes in the family to avoid kissing young babies to prevent virus transmission. When undergoing cosmetic treatments, if there is a history of herpes, doctors typically recommend prophylactic use of oral antiviral medications.
In conclusion, the herpes virus is a commonly encountered infection in life, and many people are unaware that they have been infected. For those who experience frequent outbreaks, seeking medical help is especially important. Remember, maintaining good lifestyle habits, getting adequate sleep, and having a healthy diet are key to preventing herpes outbreaks.