Genital Herpes -Symptoms and Treatment of the Herpes Simplex Virus

Genital Herpes is a contagious viral infection of the genitals, buttocks, mouth and lips. Since the late 1970s, the number of people infected with herpes has increased by over 30%, with 500,000 new cases being diagnosed in the US alone each year. Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of HSV:

HSV-1

Herpes simplex 1 most commonly infects the mouth and lips, causing fever blisters and cold sores. It is often referred to as oral herpes and is a cause of spreading infection to the genitalia through oral sex. HSV 1 is more likely to recur in this area, than if it was infected by type II.

HSV-II

Herpes type 2 infects the genital and anal area and is the predominant cause of genital herpes. This strain of the virus can also lead to outbreaks of shingles, mononucleosis and chicken pox.

Symptoms

Genital herpes symptoms, or outbreaks, usually occur up to 26 days after exposure and can last 2-3 weeks. A common question by people concerned that they may have contracted the virus, is what does herpes look like? The symptoms of herpes include:

• Tingling and itching of the genitalia or anal area.
• Small red bumps which develop into fluid-filled blisters. When these burst they can leave painful sores.
• Urinating can be painful, especially if any sores are open.
• Flu-like symptoms including fever, headache and swollen glands.

Transmission

Herpes transmission is caused by any direct contact to the skin of an infected party. This can include close oral, anal or genital contact such as kissing, oral sex or sexual intercourse. Herpes simplex is highly contagious, even when there are no symptoms present. An uninfected person has around a 75% chance of contracting the virus when exposed to someone shredding the virus. The virus can spread to other parts of the body by touching an exposed area and then touching another susceptible area, for instance when sharing towels.  Once infected, the virus can cause outbreaks several time a year, although recurrent infections are usually milder. 

Cure

Although there is no cure for the herpes simplex virus at present, it is predicted that an effective vaccine may be available within 5 years. Despite there being no cure, there are a number of effective drugs that can reduce the duration and frequency of recurrences. For your convenience, we have listed a number of these drugs below. Remember, however, to always consult your GP before administering any new medication.