Gential herpes is one of the most commonly sexually transmitted infections in Australia. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus, the very same virus which can cause sold cores on the face. Anti viral medicines may relieve symptoms, speed healing and limit further outbreaks of symptoms and protect against the spread of others.
Herpes is broken down into two types - HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 is a more common cause of cold sores whereas HSV-2 tends to affect the genitals.
Unfortunately with herpes, once the disease has been transmitted, it remains in the body of that person for life. After the first episode of an infection, the virus lies inactive in nerve cells and lies dormant until a period of stress on the body may reactivate the infection.
Most people who contract genital herpes would never know that they have the disease. Some people can have one initial outbreak of the disease and then no future episodes, it just depends on your body. Some of the reasons why you may get an outbreak can be attirbuted to the following:
- High Levels of Stress
- Excessive exercise and exhaustion
- Increases in alcohol intake
- Infections from bacteria or other viruses
- Friction during sexual intercourse
The main way we combat this disease is through anti-viral medicines such as famciclovir, valaciclovir and aciclovir.
To relieve some of the symptoms, here is a list of common remedies which you may or may not attempt:
- Bathe the lesions in a warm saline solution
- Drink plenty of water
- Urinate whilst the genitals are submerged in warm water
- Wear loose clothing
- Use condoms
- Avoid sexual contact if possible
- Wash your hands well and keep the body clean.
For more information see the Australian Herpes Management Forum on www.ahmf.com.au
No comments:
Post a Comment