Herpes is an infection that starts from the herpes simplex one virus. Hence, it can affect different parts of the body around the mouth and the genital area. There are two kinds of illnesses, such as HSV 1 and 2. The first is the one responsible for having cold sores and blisters on the face and mouth area. Some people experience emotional problems because of the loss of self-confidence. Its impact on mental health is worse than its physical signs.
1. Causes
Herpes simplex one can quickly transfer from one person to another through direct contact. A child can get it from an infected adult. Also, once a child gets it, then he or she will carry the virus for life.
HSV1
One can get it from:
- Using same utensils
- Sharing of personal items
- Kissing
Moreover, it can quickly spread when a person is experiencing serious signs. Also, one can get genital herpes after having oral sex with a person with cold sores.
HSV2
People with mouth herpes can pass it on through oral sex. Hence, the person who receives it may develop HSV2. Also, an infected person may be asymptomatic or do not have any signs but can still spread it to others.
2. Who is at Risk?
The truth is that anyone can have it at any age. Hence, the level of risk depends on your exposure. Therefore, people who engage in unprotected sex are at risk of HSV2.
Other includes:
- Having more than one partner
- Sex at a young age
- Females
- Sexually transmitted infection
- People with serious illness
If you are a pregnant woman with a serious infection, then there is a higher chance that you can transfer it to your baby. Furthermore, it will create serious complications for the baby.
3. Signs
Always remember that a person who is infected may not have any sign at all. Unfortunately, they can still pass the virus to other people. Some signs include:
- Sores
- Pain from urination
- Itching
- Headache
- Fever
- Weak
- Inability to eat
Moreover, it can also infect the eyes. One can develop an illness known as herpes keratitis. Generally, a person who has it may feel pain, itchy eyes, discharge, and irritation.
4. Diagnosis
Typically a doctor will ask for a physical examination. They will look for signs of mouth herpes and sores in other parts of the body. A doctor may also request for HVS test to know if you have it on your genital area. They need to get a swab test from the sore located at the mouth and send it to a laboratory. Another option is a blood test to find out if you already develop antibodies from the virus. Hence, it is very useful in the case of a person with no signs. Also, there are available test kits that you can use at home.
5. Other Interesting Facts
- Many people who have it during adult already have it in their childhood.
- Also, almost 67% of people around the world have it t the age of 50 and under.
- There is a higher risk of getting the virus if there is open or active herpes on the lip.
- People with AIDS or HIV are more likely to have outbreaks.
- There is still no medicine or treatment to cure this illness.
- Medications can only decrease the seriousness of signs.
- Some say that there is a link between having herpes on the lip and other parts to Alzheimer’s.
- The virus has two genomes: one from sub-Sahara Africa and the other one is found in different parts of the world.
- One out of four people in the US from age 14 to 49 has the virus.
- One can stay away from it by having one partner.
- Above all, practice safe sex.
Important Note:
In case of a serious outbreak, there are available treatments for it. Also, medications can decrease signs and occurrences. Hence, it can stop the transfer of the virus to another person. The virus that causes herpes is not the one that can cause cervical cancer.
