Author’s Bio: Saher B.Haider has a Pharmacy degree and is a freelance writer in the health and
wellness industry. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, cooking, and spending time with her
family.

Herpes is a common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Genital herpes is one of the leading causes of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) in the US, affecting 1 out of every 6 people between 14 and 49.

What is herpes?

It is a viral infection that causes sores or blisters on or around the genitals, mouth or both. The disease is more common in women than men and is transmitted through sex.

People with multiple sexual partners are more prone to contract herpes. Though it is not a severe infection, it can get very uncomfortable and painful. More so, the infection is contagious, so getting treatment on time can save others from contracting herpes.

Types of Herpes

Herpes is broadly classified into herpes simplex virus Type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus Type 2 (HSV-2). The primary difference between the two is that while HSV-1 mainly transmits through oral sex, HSV-2 is transmitted through sex. However, HSV-1 can also transmit through oral sex. Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) About 67% of herpes viral infections fall under HSV-1. Also known as oral herpes or herpes on lips, the transmission of HSV-1 is usually through oral-to-oral contact, but it can also cause genital herpes. According to the WHO, HSV-I affects 3.7 billion people aged 50 and under worldwide. Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2) Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 causes the remaining 13% of all herpes infections. HSV-2 is a sexually transmitted disease and is also known as genital herpes. According to WHO, HSV-2 affects about 491 million people between the ages of 14 and 49 worldwide,/b>.

What does herpes look like?

Herpes sores look like small clusters of fluid-filled blisters. They may be of different sizes and appear as clusters in different places. When these blisters burst, they release watery discharge or blood, leaving behind red, itchy, and open sores.

Symptoms of Herpes

It takes anywhere from 2-20 days to develop symptoms after contracting the virus. The infection becomes most contagious after the development of its symptoms. Herpes sore or blister develops around the mouth and/or genitals. If you have contracted the virus, you will feel a burning and tingling sensation around the affected areas. In genital herpes, the most common symptoms are burning, itching, and tingling sensation around genital areas. Other general symptoms include fever and general body weakness. Genital herpes The symptoms, in this case, may not appear until several days. The sore usually develop on the penis, inside and/or around the vagina, around the buttocks and thighs, and anus. Genital herpes can cause painful urination and cause unusual vaginal discharge in women. The symptoms may last for several weeks and have a high degree of recurrence. Oral herpes Commonly known as cold sores and fever sores, the sores in oral herpes develop around the mouth or lips. In some cases, it also affects the tongue and other areas of facial skin.

How can you protect yourself from herpes?

The only way to protect yourself from the infection is by ensuring that your partner is not infected with the virus. Having multiple sexual partners increases your risk of contracting the disease and transmitting the virus to others. Staying in a long-term, monogamous relationship with a partner who is not infected with STDs helps prevent the spread of herpes. Likewise, using good-quality latex condoms every time during sex can also provide some degree of protection from contracting the virus.

Herpes cure

The good news is that several treatment options can help relieve the symptoms and prevent them from getting worse. Typically, antiviral medications help limit the spread and severity of herpes sores and blisters. Currently approved antiviral medications are:

Acyclovir

Famciclovir

Valacyclovir

Once you are diagnosed with herpes, your health care provider will start your treatment right away. More so, your doctor will also provide you pain killer creams to subside pain and discomfort on and around blisters.

Online Doctor Appointments

Need std medication online? We are here to help you out! If you suspect you or your partner are having symptoms of herpes, consult our online doctors immediately. Health care providers at our online sexual health clinic can evaluate your symptoms and suggest appropriate std treatment online. At Home Urgent Care provides telehealth services so you can safely and confidently keep your sexual health in check with our primary and urgent care services. Our online consultation services include physicians with expertise in std treatment and medication. Our doctors can evaluate your symptoms and order the appropriate std prescription at your preferred pharmacy. Book an appointment today with our health care experts available at your convenience 365 days a year.

Book an Appointment

Step 1
Call or Book your online Doctor Visit

Step 2
Talk to a doctor over the Phone/ Tablet

Step 3
If needed pick up your medication at the pharmacy

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Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “Genital Herpes.” August 28, 2017. January 07, 2021.

Whitley, Richard. “Herpesviruses.” NCBI Bookshelf, January 07, 2021.

World Health Organization (WHO). “Herpes simplex virus.” May 01, 2020. January 07, 2021.

On Health, “Viral Skin Conditions: Pictures of Rashes, Blisters, and Sores in Adults and Toddlers.” January 07, 2021.

DeKorte, Carrie. “Antiviral Medications to Treat and Prevent Herpes.” Pharmacy Times, January 07, 2021.