Dr. Peter Leone (who has appeared in the New York Times and NPR’s Talk of the Nation) stopped by our monthly herpes support group on April 8, 2013, in Raleigh, NC, to give herpes facts and update us on the latest herpes statistics. He gave so much clarity around all the horribly misunderstood herpes information out there!
Topics covered:
Guest author from our community: WhoopsiDaysi
“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” — Anais Nin
I would be lying if I said getting herpes was the best thing to ever happen to me. Much like I would not say being divorced was the best thing to ever happen to me — three times. (But that is another blog altogether.) What was the best thing to happen to me though was what I learned from those experiences. As painful as they both were to deal with, and as much as I thought “my life is over” after each event, I realized that hidden within those experiences were lessons waiting for me to learn. I learned we are the masters of our destiny and also of our mind. We choose what we think, how we feel, what we believe, and how we are going to react in any given situation. The experience of having herpes is no different.
“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” — Anais NinI remember getting the herpes diagnosis. It was on the heels of my son leaving home, which, to my surprise was a rather traumatic event for me. My reaction actually caught me off guard. As I was coming to terms with the ending of that part of my life, my marriage, my third and the one that I honestly thought was going to go the distance, dissolved before my eyes in a matter of two weeks. I was devastated and was at what I thought was my lowest point. I was to discover there was one point lower … At the end of November 2011 I noticed an irritation that just wouldn’t go away, no matter what I tried. I rationalized, bargained with God and prayed that it wasn’t what I feared it was. A herpes outbreak? You see, I had a partner 10 years previous who had herpes. My fears came to life on December 3, 2011 when I sat in the doctor’s office and I got the verdict: I have herpes. Welcome the bottom of the lowest point in my life. As I was considering my life of celibacy and rejection, I reached out via the internet. Low and behold, contrary to my belief, I was not the only “damned one” on this planet. There are many people with herpes. Thus began my unfolding and blossoming.
My journey had taken many twists and turns until one day I found myself sitting in a meeting room in Raleigh, North Carolina with a bunch of strangers who, after a few short days, would become part of my soul. When I first heard of the Herpes Opportunity, I was skeptical. I had no idea what it was about. I was in Canada on the other side of the country. Honestly, was I going to travel all the way to North Carolina for some herpes weekend? Turns out, yes — and I am so glad that I did. I got so much out of one short weekend. It is hard to describe what it is like but I’d love to share what I came away with …
The experience of the Herpes Opportunity weekend is something that is unique to each participant. It’s like listening to a song. It all depends on where you are in your life and the experiences you have had. The song may mean something different to you depending on what is going on in your life. The Herpes Opportunity weekend is like that. It all depends on where are you in your journey of healing, which makes it such a unique experience for each participant. This is not your typical workshop where you sit and listen to lectures. The weekend starts by you getting to know each other and developing a sense of trust and safety … and then the adventure begins.
I had so many takeaways from the weekend. For me, the biggest take away was learning to become more loving and accepting of myself and realizing that we all share so many of the same feelings, fears, insecurities, and false beliefs. When one person healed, we all healed. There is something about the group dynamic that is so amazing. I also realized there is something beautiful in just being with another person in their grief and pain. And when I realized how beautiful that was for someone else, I was able to extend that to myself. I have learned to sit with my emotions, whatever they are, and accept them as they are in that moment without judgment. By honoring my feelings, I can let them be expressed, heard and then pass.
After the weekend, I was so open to pushing my comfort zone to see what was possible. My heart was open and I was eager to try new experiences and to stretch myself to see what I was really capable of. Upon my return, I took a Nidra class, a tai chi class, a few kundalini yoga classes, attended a drumming circle and a chakra clearing meditation class. I have become more comfortable being uncomfortable and trying to see where my limits really are. I am now challenging my beliefs about “what is possible for me.” I am far more open in telling people I have herpes as well. I used to be afraid to have people know for fear they would judge me and reject me. Now I am doing YouTube interviews! If you would have asked me a year ago if I would do that sort of thing, it would be a definite “Are you insane?” Even now, it certainly pushes my comfort zone, but now I am open to it. I see my discomfort as more of a challenge than a limitation.
This herpes thing can be the worst thing to ever happen or it can be a blessing. The only person who can determine that for you is you. You can choose to be a victim or a victor. You can choose to see herpes as an opportunity or a limitation. It’s all in how you choose to look at it. If you are curious to see if maybe there is a way to loosen the hold that shame has on you around herpes, I would encourage you to push your comfort zone just a bit and come out to the Herpes Opportunity weekend. You can feel the fear and do it anyway, just like every single person who attended the last weekend in January did. Each of us was uncomfortable and unsure of what we were getting into, but we came anyway. And in our discomfort, we found healing, love and acceptance. Listen to that small, still voice within you. If this is an experience that both scares you and excites you all the same, then take that leap and see what is possible. You will be so glad you did.
“It’s impossible,” said pride
“It’s risky,” said experience
“It’s pointless,” said reason
“Give it a try,” whispered the heart
— Author unknown
Dr. Peter Leone (who has appeared in the New York Times and NPR’s Talk of the Nation) stopped by our monthly herpes support group on April 8, 2013, in Raleigh, NC, to give herpes facts and update us on the latest herpes statistics. He gave so much clarity around all the horribly misunderstood herpes information out there!
Topics covered:
Guest author from our community: WhoopsiDaysi
“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” — Anais Nin
I would be lying if I said getting herpes was the best thing to ever happen to me. Much like I would not say being divorced was the best thing to ever happen to me — three times. (But that is another blog altogether.) What was the best thing to happen to me though was what I learned from those experiences. As painful as they both were to deal with, and as much as I thought “my life is over” after each event, I realized that hidden within those experiences were lessons waiting for me to learn. I learned we are the masters of our destiny and also of our mind. We choose what we think, how we feel, what we believe, and how we are going to react in any given situation. The experience of having herpes is no different.
“And the day came when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.” — Anais NinI remember getting the herpes diagnosis. It was on the heels of my son leaving home, which, to my surprise was a rather traumatic event for me. My reaction actually caught me off guard. As I was coming to terms with the ending of that part of my life, my marriage, my third and the one that I honestly thought was going to go the distance, dissolved before my eyes in a matter of two weeks. I was devastated and was at what I thought was my lowest point. I was to discover there was one point lower … At the end of November 2011 I noticed an irritation that just wouldn’t go away, no matter what I tried. I rationalized, bargained with God and prayed that it wasn’t what I feared it was. A herpes outbreak? You see, I had a partner 10 years previous who had herpes. My fears came to life on December 3, 2011 when I sat in the doctor’s office and I got the verdict: I have herpes. Welcome the bottom of the lowest point in my life. As I was considering my life of celibacy and rejection, I reached out via the internet. Low and behold, contrary to my belief, I was not the only “damned one” on this planet. There are many people with herpes. Thus began my unfolding and blossoming.
My journey had taken many twists and turns until one day I found myself sitting in a meeting room in Raleigh, North Carolina with a bunch of strangers who, after a few short days, would become part of my soul. When I first heard of the Herpes Opportunity, I was skeptical. I had no idea what it was about. I was in Canada on the other side of the country. Honestly, was I going to travel all the way to North Carolina for some herpes weekend? Turns out, yes — and I am so glad that I did. I got so much out of one short weekend. It is hard to describe what it is like but I’d love to share what I came away with …
The experience of the Herpes Opportunity weekend is something that is unique to each participant. It’s like listening to a song. It all depends on where you are in your life and the experiences you have had. The song may mean something different to you depending on what is going on in your life. The Herpes Opportunity weekend is like that. It all depends on where are you in your journey of healing, which makes it such a unique experience for each participant. This is not your typical workshop where you sit and listen to lectures. The weekend starts by you getting to know each other and developing a sense of trust and safety … and then the adventure begins.
I had so many takeaways from the weekend. For me, the biggest take away was learning to become more loving and accepting of myself and realizing that we all share so many of the same feelings, fears, insecurities, and false beliefs. When one person healed, we all healed. There is something about the group dynamic that is so amazing. I also realized there is something beautiful in just being with another person in their grief and pain. And when I realized how beautiful that was for someone else, I was able to extend that to myself. I have learned to sit with my emotions, whatever they are, and accept them as they are in that moment without judgment. By honoring my feelings, I can let them be expressed, heard and then pass.
After the weekend, I was so open to pushing my comfort zone to see what was possible. My heart was open and I was eager to try new experiences and to stretch myself to see what I was really capable of. Upon my return, I took a Nidra class, a tai chi class, a few kundalini yoga classes, attended a drumming circle and a chakra clearing meditation class. I have become more comfortable being uncomfortable and trying to see where my limits really are. I am now challenging my beliefs about “what is possible for me.” I am far more open in telling people I have herpes as well. I used to be afraid to have people know for fear they would judge me and reject me. Now I am doing YouTube interviews! If you would have asked me a year ago if I would do that sort of thing, it would be a definite “Are you insane?” Even now, it certainly pushes my comfort zone, but now I am open to it. I see my discomfort as more of a challenge than a limitation.
This herpes thing can be the worst thing to ever happen or it can be a blessing. The only person who can determine that for you is you. You can choose to be a victim or a victor. You can choose to see herpes as an opportunity or a limitation. It’s all in how you choose to look at it. If you are curious to see if maybe there is a way to loosen the hold that shame has on you around herpes, I would encourage you to push your comfort zone just a bit and come out to the Herpes Opportunity weekend. You can feel the fear and do it anyway, just like every single person who attended the last weekend in January did. Each of us was uncomfortable and unsure of what we were getting into, but we came anyway. And in our discomfort, we found healing, love and acceptance. Listen to that small, still voice within you. If this is an experience that both scares you and excites you all the same, then take that leap and see what is possible. You will be so glad you did.
“It’s impossible,” said pride
“It’s risky,” said experience
“It’s pointless,” said reason
“Give it a try,” whispered the heart
— Author unknown
Many thanks to the American Social Health Association for this article.
How alike are HSV-1 and HSV-2? In this feature, we look at the latest scientific facts about the two types of herpes simplex virus, as well as social attitudes toward oral and genital herpes.
When many people first tell someone they have genital herpes, they start by comparing the herpes infection to oral herpes, or cold sores. How apt is the comparison? In spite of scientific facts, the herpes stigma and emotional attitudes surrounding genital herpes can make it hard to compare it objectively with an oral infection that most people casually accept. Following the unspoken assumptions of our society, many people still believe there is a “good” herpes virus (HSV-1, the usual cause of cold sores) and a “bad” herpes virus (HSV-2, the usual cause of genital herpes).
Many people still believe there is a “good” herpes virus (HSV-1, the usual cause of cold sores) and a “bad” herpes virus (HSV-2, the usual cause of genital herpes).In this feature, we take a look at HSV-1 and HSV-2 to see how alike and different the two viral types really are. We asked leading researchers how the two compare in terms of severity, recurrences, and transmission rates. We asked how often each occurs outside its usual site of preference, and how each behaves in the genital area. We questioned how much immunity having one type orally or genitally provides against getting the second type.
In addition, we looked at the way our society views oral and genital herpes. What’s behind the very different images the two types carry? And what can we do about it? In an interview, counselors at the National Herpes Hotline suggest ways to help replace judgmental social assumptions with a healthy attitude.
Under a microscope, HSV-1 and HSV-2 are virtually identical, sharing approximately 50% of their DNA. Both types infect the body’s mucosal surfaces, usually the mouth or genitals, and then establish latency in the nervous system. For both types, at least two-thirds of infected people have no symptoms, or symptoms too mild to notice. However, both types can recur and spread even when no symptoms are present.
The primary difference between the two viral types is in where they typically establish latency in the body — their “site of preference.” HSV-1 usually establishes latency in the trigeminal ganglion, a collection of nerve cells near the ear. From there, it tends to recur on the lower lip or face. HSV-2 usually sets up residence in the sacral ganglion at the base of the spine. From there, it recurs in the genital area.
Even this difference is not absolute either type can reside in either or both parts of the body and infect oral and/or genital areas. Unfortunately, many people aren’t aware of this, which contributes both to the spread of type 1 and to the misperception that the two types are fundamentally different.
“People don’t understand that you can have type 1 genitally or orally, that the two types are essentially the same virus,’ says Marshall Clover, manager of the National Herpes Hotline.” One type is associated with stigma, the other is “just a cold sore” — our society has a euphemism for it so we don’t even have to acknowledge that it’s herpes.”
The common myth is that HSV-1 causes a mild infection that is occasionally bothersome, but never dangerous. The reality? HSV-1 is usually mild, especially when it infects the lips, face, or genitals. However, in some cases type 1 can recur spontaneously in the eye, causing ocular herpes, a potentially serious infection which can lead to blindness. In very rare cases, HSV- 1 can spread spontaneously to the brain, causing herpes encephalitis, a dangerous infection that can lead to death. HSV-1 is also the usual cause of herpes whitlow, an infection on the finger, and “wrestler’s herpes,” (herpes gladiatorum) a herpes infection on the chest or face.
The range and potential severity of HSV-1 infections lead some experts to view the virus as more risky than usually perceived. “This is heresy, but I think type 1 is a more significant infection than type 2,” says Spotswood Spruance, MD, an oral HSV specialist at the University of Utah. “Type 1, and the morbidity associated with it, are underestimated.”
By comparison, HSV-2 is widely believed to be a painful, dangerous infection that affects only people with very active sex lives. The reality? Some 16% of adult Americans from all backgrounds, income levels, and ethnic groups have HSV-2. Like HSV-1, type 2 is usually mild — so mild that 80% of infected people don’t even know they have it. Type 2 rarely causes complications or spreads to other parts of the body. It is the most common cause of neonatal herpes, a rare but dangerous infection in newborns; however, type 1 causes up to one-third of neonatal infections.
The two types do behave somewhat differently depending on whether they are residing in their site of preference-the mouth and face for HSV-1, and the genital area for HSV-2. But both types are quite common, and under most circumstances neither is a major health threat. That’s one reason medical professionals tend to dismiss HSV -2 despite the emotional trauma a diagnosis can cause for a patient.
While HSV can be a frustrating and painful condition for some people, in general the virus is less a medical problem than a social problem. For most of us, genital herpes is no more dangerous than a cold sore.
How Many Herpes Outbreaks?
Just how much of a physical problem HSV poses for a person depends largely on three factors. The first is how well the person’s immune system is able to control the infection.
Differences in immune response may be the main reason that some people are bothered by frequent cold sores or genital herpes outbreaks while others are not. It’s also the reason that both HSV-1 and 2 can pose serious challenges for infants, who have a limited immune response; and for people with compromised immune systems, including people with cancer, AIDS, severe burns, and people taking immunosuppressant medications.
The second factor affecting outbreaks is how long a person has had the infection. Over time, recurrences of both HSV- 1 and 2 tend to decrease, for reasons that aren’t entirely clear.
In the case of oral HSV-1, many of the approximately 100 million Americans who are infected acquired the virus when they were children. By the time they’re adults, only some 5% of people are bothered enough to consider oral HSV-1 a medical problem, according to Spruance.
On the other hand, almost all of the approximately 40 million Americans infected with HSV-2 acquired the virus as teenagers or adults. In the first year, those who have recurring outbreaks experience an average of four to six episodes. Over time, as with oral infections, the number of outbreaks usually drops off.
A third factor influencing the frequency of HSV-1 and 2 outbreaks is whether the virus is established in its site of preference. While HSV can infect both genital and oral areas, both types cause milder infections when they are away from “home” territory. Outside their site of preference, both type 1 and 2 lose most of their punch.
For example, most people infected with HSV-1 in the genital area have few, if any, outbreaks after the initial episode, far fewer than is typical with either oral HSV-1 or genital HSV-2. While experts estimate that some 30% of genital herpes infections in the United States may be caused by HSV-1, only 2- 5% of recurring genital outbreaks are caused by HSV-1. Research conducted by Lawrence Corey, MD, and colleagues at the University of Washington in Seattle shows that genital HSV-2 recurs 10 times more often than genital HSV-1.
According to a study by Wald et al. (New England Journal of Medicine, 1995), among 110 women with genital herpes, the average number of recurrences per year for those with genital HSV-1 was zero. Other studies have shown an average of about one outbreak per year (Benedetti, Annals of Internal Medicine, 1994).
Similarly, HSV-2 infection in theoral area-outside its site of preference-very rarely causes problems. First of all, oral, HSV-2 infections are rare, for reasons discussed below. But even when an infection occurs, recurrent outbreaks are uncommon. In one study (Lafferty et al., New England Journal of Medicine, 1987), oral HSV-2 recurred an average of 0.01 times a year in newly infected people. “I’ve never convincingly seen an oral type 2 recurrence,” says Spruance.
A possible fourth factor affecting recurrence rate is viral type. According to the Lafferty study, genital HSV-2 infections were the most frequently recurring herpes infections, followed by oral HSV-1, genital HSV-1, and last of all, oral HSV-2.
How Easily Does Herpes Spread?
As a number of readers have attested over the years, many people with genital herpes are at least as concerned about transmission-the likelihood of spreading the virus to a partner-as about their own health. On the other hand, few people with oral herpes, share this concern. Is this because one type is more contagious than the other?
The short answer is no. Both viral types are easily transmitted to their site of preference, and can also be spread to other sites. Both are most contagious during active outbreaks, but are often spread through viral shedding when there are no recognizable symptoms. According to Spruance, people with recurrent oral HSV-1 shed virus in their saliva about 5% of the time even when they show no symptoms. In the first year of infection, people with genital HSV-2 shed virus from the genital area about 6-10% of days when they show no symptoms, and less often over time. (Both of these figures reflect shedding as detected by viral culture.)
From here, however, the question of transmissibility gets more complicated. Acquisition of one type is more difficult-though certainly possible-if you already have the other type. This is because either type, contracted orally or genitally, causes the body to produce antibodies, some of which are active against both HSV-1 and 2. This acquired immune response gives some limited protection if the body encounters a second type. When a person with a prior HSV infection does contract the second type, the first episode tends to be less severe than when no prior antibodies are present.
On a practical level, this means oral HSV-1 is often the most easily acquired herpes infection. Usually the first herpes simplex virus that people encounter, oral HSV-1, is typically spread simply by the kind of social kiss that a relative gives a child. Because children have no prior infection with any HSV type, they have no immune defense against the virus.
By the time they’re teenagers or young adults, about 50% of Americans have HSV-1 antibodies in their blood. By the time they are over age 50, some 80-90% of Americans have HSV-1 antibodies.
By comparison, almost all HSV-2 is encountered after childhood, when people become sexually active. Those who have a prior infection with HSV-1 have an acquired immune response that lowers – though certainly doesn’t eliminate-the risk of acquiring HSV-2. According to one study (Mertz, Annals of Internal Medicine,1992), previous oral HSV-1 infection reduces the acquisition of subsequent HSV-2 infection by 40%.
A prior infection with oral HSV-1 lowers the risk of acquiring genital HSV-1 even further. Studies show that genital HSV-1 infections almost always occur in people who have no prior infection with HSV of either type (Corey, Annals of Internal Medicine, 1983).
In the absence of prior oral infection, however, HSV-1 spreads easily to the genital area, usually through oral sex. In some countries, such as Japan and parts of Great Britain, genital HSV-1 is as common as genital HSV- 2, or more common.
“Prevalence rates of genital HSV-1 differ based on the practice of oral sex and on the percentage of people who are HSV-1 positive from childhood,” explains Anna Wald, MD researcher at the University of Washington at Seattle.
Finally, the question of immunity and HSV types is complicated by an additional issue. Some studies suggest that the ganglia themselves may acquire some immunity to HSV after they are exposed to one viral type.
In the laboratory, infection of ganglia with more than one virus is difficult, suggesting that it may be more difficult to acquire a second HSV type in a location where you already have HSV. A prior genital infection with HSV-1, for example, may give more protection against genital HSV-2 than a prior oral infection with HSV-1.
What does all this mean on a practical level? Let’s look at some examples to find out. Say you have genital HSV-1 and your partner has genital HSV-2. If you have unprotected sex, there is a small but real risk that you will get HSV-2, resulting in more outbreaks and more shedding. “We have documented cases where a person acquires HSV-2 after a prior genital HSV- 1 infection,” says Wald. “I don’t think it happens often, but it does happen.”
On the other hand, it’s very unlikely that your partner will get genital HSV- 1 from you. “I’ve never seen a case of a person acquiring HSV-1 on top of HSV-2,” says Wald. “It’s possible, but it would be unusual.”
What if your partner has genital HSV-2 and you perform oral sex on him or her? Will you get HSV- 2 in the mouth? Given the widespread practice of oral sex (some three-quarters of all adults practice it, according to The Social Organization of Sexuality, 1994) and the prevalence of genital HSV-2 infection, you might expect oral HSV-2 to be relatively common. It’s not.
According to one study, almost 100% of recognizable HSV-2 infection is genital (Nahmias, Scandinavian Journal of Infectious Diseases Supplement, 1990). One reason is that most adults are already infected with HSV-1 orally, which provides some immunity against infection with HSV 2. Another reason is that oral HSV-2 rarely reactivates, so even if an infection does exist, no one knows.
So far we’ve been talking about transmission of HSV-1 or 2 from its site of preference. What about transmission from another site? Say you acquire genital HSV-1 through oral sex. Can you spread the virus to a partner through genital sex?
The answer is yes, but probably not as easily as it was spread through oral sex. The main reason is that the virus reactivates and sheds less often outside its site of preference. Only about one quarter of people with genital HSV- 1 shed virus at all in the absence of symptoms, while 55% of people with HSV-2 do (Wald, New England Journal of Medicine, 1995). “Shedding data appear to parallel recurrence data, meaning that people who have a lot of recurrences also have a lot of shedding,” says Wald.
While HSV- 1 can be spread from genitals to genitals, “we think it is spread more easily through oral sex because HSV-1 reactivates more frequently in the oral area,” says Wald. However, she warns, “transmission of genital HSV-1 during asymptomatic shedding has been documented.” In other words, genital HSV-1 can be spread through genital sex, even when there are no symptoms. “Good” Virus/ “Bad” Virus
If HSV infection is as easily transmitted from the mouth as from the genitals, then why do people take steps to prevent genital but not oral infection? Why don’t we kiss through dental dams ?
“It’s ironic, isn’t it?” says Wald. “It’s not about health, it’s about social acceptability.”
Scientists can tell us all day that the main difference between the two viral types is simply their site of preference-whether they typically occur above the waist or below. But the unspoken attitudes of our society send a different message. That’s just the problem, social attitudes whisper. Below the waist is bad.
“People think of oral herpes as the “good” herpes and genital herpes as the “bad” kind,” says Glover of the National Herpes Hotline. “It’s partly that they don’t understand the similarities between HSV-1 and 2. But it’s also that good and bad is how our culture views sex and our bodies.”
The inescapable fact is that HSV-1 is usually spread through contact with infected lips, while HSV-2 usually spread through contact with infected genitals. From a social point of view, the problem is not the disease; it’s how you got it.
Whether we like it or not, the social prejudice against genital herpes, no matter which virus causes it, is a reality. “People have more trouble explaining to a new partner that they have genital herpes, even if it’s HSV- 1, than if they have a cold sore,” says Glover. “Just saying the word “genital” is like an anvil that pulls the sentence down”.
Is this topic making you crazy? For people who have trouble dealing with social attitudes toward genital herpes, the blatant double standard society applies to oral herpes can be frustrating, to say the least.
“Talk to a wise friend,” suggests Rebecca, a health communication specialist on the National Herpes Hotline. “Join a support group. Find Someone you respect and exchange ideas them. It’s always reassuring to see that not everyone lives inside the walls our society builds around sexual issues and realities. ”
It’s also worth hoping that new research on the similarities between HSV-1 and 2, as well as increased public education about genital herpes, can help lower the level of misunderstanding about both types of the virus. Today, the greatest difference between HSV- 1 and 2 appears to be the way we think about them. Tomorrow, that may change …
"It's been thought that recurrences were limited to people with compromised immune systems, for instance from chemotherapy or bloodborne malignancies, but this is not the case," says lead author Barbara Yawn, M.D., director of research at Olmsted Medical Center in Rochester. "Recurrence was prevalent in the immunocompetent population. We were very surprised by the results."
The research team examined medical records, dating from 1996 to 2001, of nearly 1,700 patients over age 22 who had a documented episode of shingles. The condition causes a specific type of skin rash and severe pain. They then searched area medical records to determine whether those patients had been treated for a second episode at any point, following them up to 12 years (the average follow-up was eight years). The data showed the recurrence rate was over 5 percent, the same rate an age-matched cohort would be expected to experience a first case of shingles. Some patients had experienced as many as three recurrences. "And that's only within eight years," Dr. Yawn notes. "As you continue to follow these patients throughout their lives, it's likely the recurrence rate will be much higher than 5 percent."
The study found that women, who are more likely than men to have shingles, also were more likely to experience a recurrence of the disease. Although the team had suspected that recurrence rates would be higher in older patients, age did not appear to make individuals more susceptible to another round of the disease. Instead, researchers found the most striking determinant for recurrence was patients' pain during the initial episode. Those who had experienced pain lasting more than 30 days after the initial onset of shingles were more likely to face a recurrence, particularly in the first three to four years after the initial episode. This, too, surprised the research team. "We'd thought that suffering a worse case would possibly give patients more resistance to a second occurrence, but our data presented the exact opposite," says Dr. Yawn.
The results suggest that the herpes zoster vaccine, which is known to reduce first-time occurrences of shingles by 50 percent, may help patients avoid a second episode. "Until now, we haven't been able to tell patients their risks of getting zoster a second time," Dr. Yawn says. "This study offers another piece of information for patients and doctors who are discussing the likelihood of recurrence and considering a prevention strategy."
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The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Mayo Clinic.
Note: Materials may be edited for content and length. For further information, please contact the source cited above.
Journal Reference:
B. P. Yawn, P. C. Wollan, M. J. Kurland, J. L. St. Sauver, P. Saddier. Herpes Zoster Recurrences More Frequent Than Previously Reported. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2011; 86 (2): 88 DOI: 10.4065/mcp.2010.0618Note: If no author is given, the source is cited instead.
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Views expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of ScienceDaily or its staff.
Vaginal herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that keeps affecting more and more women. It can cause a lot of pain and even death to newborn babies. However a vast majority of women seem unaware of the situation.
Why it is important to know about vaginal herpesFemale herpes symptomsHerpes and pregnancy
Herpes should be a major concern for women because studies have shown that they are four times more at risk of getting infected with herpes than men. This is because their genital surface area is bigger and often moist compared to men’s.
Women are also prone to hormonal changes during menstruation, which tends to wreak havoc in their immune responses and expose them to genital herpes.
During an outbreak, the ratio of women manifesting severe symptoms of genital herpes such as painful urination and discharge is 4 out of 5, but only 1 out of 4 in men. Also, during an initial outbreak, 7 out of 10 women suffer from flu-like symptoms along with herpes such as fever, headache, swollen glands, and painful joints.
Still another reason why you should guard yourself against herpes is that people with herpes are four times more likely to get infected with AIDS.
Condoms may partially protect against herpes, although oral sex is also another way you can get the herpes virus.
Most women manifest only minimal herpes symptoms. Red flags to watch out for are blisters on or around your genitals or rectum. When blisters dry out during the first outbreak, they leave tender ulcers or sores that usually take two weeks to a month before they heal.
Another outbreak of vaginal herpes usually appears after a few weeks or months, but this is usually less severe and with shorter duration than the first.
You may experience flu-like symptoms during the primary outbreak of genital herpes. Take note, though, that women who have herpes infection usually only notice mild signs which they usually mistake for insect bites or other skin problems. This is the reason why most people only recognize the symptoms of vaginal herpes years after the onset of infection.
The herpes virus stays in the body indefinitely, but herpes outbreaks tend to diminish over time. Those with frequent symptomatic outbreaks of genital herpes are prone to more shedding, and are at higher risk of infecting others.
Medical experts say that 20 to 25 percent of pregnant women have herpes and 2 percent acquire it during pregnancy. Women who get infected with the genital herpes virus at the later part of pregnancy have a higher risk of transmitting it to their infants.
It is also possible for women with herpes to give birth to uninfected babies, although every year, some 1,500 to 2,000 new mother-to-baby herpes infections are diagnosed. A continued rise in the number of cases has been noted, leading experts to believe that vaginal herpes among pregnant women is also on the rise.
A mother may pass on the herpes virus to her baby before, during or after delivery, although the most common is during childbirth. It is estimated that 1 to 2 percent of pregnant women with recurring herpes have asymptomatic shedding (without noticeable symptoms) during childbirth.
The transmission happens during the passage of the infant through the herpes virus infected birth canal during delivery. This is the reason why doctors usually recommend delivery via a c-section.
They may be rare, but newborns getting infected with the vaginal herpes virus suffer life-threatening and long-term complications including damage to the brain and nervous system. Some even die even after prompt medical treatment.
Early warning signs of herpes infections in babies include fever, listlessness, skin sores and lack of appetite. Seek immediate medical help and testing for your child if you notice these symptoms.
The best way to protect your baby is to remain symptom free and avoid sexual contact with your partner. If your partner is infected he should do everything he can to protect you from getting vaginal herpes.If either of you is infected you should learn how to prevent and cure herpes.
Vaginal herpes or Yeast infectionHave you ever wondered if your symptoms were caused by a virus or a fungi? Do you want to know how to make the difference?
"It's been thought that recurrences were limited to people with compromised immune systems, for instance from chemotherapy or bloodborne malignancies, but this is not the case," says lead author Barbara Yawn, M.D., director of research at Olmsted Medical Center in Rochester. "Recurrence was prevalent in the immunocompetent population. We were very surprised by the results."
The research team examined medical records, dating from 1996 to 2001, of nearly 1,700 patients over age 22 who had a documented episode of shingles. The condition causes a specific type of skin rash and severe pain. They then searched area medical records to determine whether those patients had been treated for a second episode at any point, following them up to 12 years (the average follow-up was eight years). The data showed the recurrence rate was over 5 percent, the same rate an age-matched cohort would be expected to experience a first case of shingles. Some patients had experienced as many as three recurrences. "And that's only within eight years," Dr. Yawn notes. "As you continue to follow these patients throughout their lives, it's likely the recurrence rate will be much higher than 5 percent."
The study found that women, who are more likely than men to have shingles, also were more likely to experience a recurrence of the disease. Although the team had suspected that recurrence rates would be higher in older patients, age did not appear to make individuals more susceptible to another round of the disease. Instead, researchers found the most striking determinant for recurrence was patients' pain during the initial episode. Those who had experienced pain lasting more than 30 days after the initial onset of shingles were more likely to face a recurrence, particularly in the first three to four years after the initial episode. This, too, surprised the research team. "We'd thought that suffering a worse case would possibly give patients more resistance to a second occurrence, but our data presented the exact opposite," says Dr. Yawn.
The results suggest that the herpes zoster vaccine, which is known to reduce first-time occurrences of shingles by 50 percent, may help patients avoid a second episode. "Until now, we haven't been able to tell patients their risks of getting zoster a second time," Dr. Yawn says. "This study offers another piece of information for patients and doctors who are discussing the likelihood of recurrence and considering a prevention strategy."
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The above story is reprinted from materials provided by Mayo Clinic.
Note: Materials may be edited for content and length. For further information, please contact the source cited above.
Journal Reference:
B. P. Yawn, P. C. Wollan, M. J. Kurland, J. L. St. Sauver, P. Saddier. Herpes Zoster Recurrences More Frequent Than Previously Reported. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 2011; 86 (2): 88 DOI: 10.4065/mcp.2010.0618Note: If no author is given, the source is cited instead.
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Views expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of ScienceDaily or its staff.
Herpes affects a lot of people, but because it is so personal, it is not talked about a lot. Talking about in a restricted manner, like it is a taboo subject, leads to misconceptions, myths, and half truths. This article will present some facts about herpes and a few myths too.
The fact is about 20 percent of adult males have herpes, and about 25 percent of adult females has herpes. The reason more females have herpes is because women are more susceptible to getting it because the female genitals have more areas with cells that are moist with body fluids than men. This means if a woman has sexual intercourse with a man with herpes, she is more likely to get it than a man who has sexual intercourse with a woman who has herpes.
More people in New York City have herpes than the national average. It is not likely that anyone can say conclusively why this is so, but a logical assumption would be that there is more promiscuity there than the national average. A myth is that condoms provide complete protection against the spread of genital herpes. The fact is condoms provide only partial protection from herpes virus infections. Condoms reduce the risk, but they do not entirely remove the risk. This is because condoms cannot cover all the areas where the herpes virus may be present.
Here is a myth: Herpes is a dangerous infection that only affects people with very active sex lives, or people who are very promiscuous. The fact is herpes affects people of all backgrounds, income levels, education levels and ethnic groups. People with very few sex partners can get herpes. And regarding the danger, for most people the symptoms are so mild that about half the people with herpes do not even know they have it. It cannot cause death, unless it is a complication in a more serious infection, especially with someone with a severely compromised immune system.
Fact: In the heat of the moment, about 32% of people with herpes will lie about it and say they do not have herpes. For this reason it is better to plan in advance to be honest, and bring the subject up before going that far. And it is a myth that oral sex is safe sex. Cold sores, which are a form of herpes, can be transmitted from the lips to the genitals, and vice versa.
Here is a myth about monogamous relationships: If you are in a monogamous relationship and you get herpes, then your partner must have cheated on you. The truth is you or your partner may have contracted the virus a long time ago, and the symptoms may have been so mild, or misdiagnosed as something else, that you or your partner did not know you had it. But due to stress or other factors, you or your partner had a more severe outbreak, and then either of you infected the other. This is a possibility, however, there is also a good chance that your partner cheated on you.
And lastly, it is most unlikely that herpes can be transmitted by a toilet seat. There are no known proven cases of someone getting herpes from a toilet seat.
The fact is anybody can get herpes, and the question is, if you have herpes, what are you going to do about it, and what are you going to do about getting on with your life? I have had herpes for over 16 years, and now I help others learn how to prevent outbreaks, and have relationships with herpes. I offer a free service where I answer questions about herpes by email. You can visit my website to ask a question about herpes, and learn how you can prevent outbreaks: http://www.herpes-herbs.com/
If you are depressed about having herpes, this article will cheer you up. After you read it, you'll still have herpes, but you'll feel better. You'll feel better, because you will realize you are not alone, and that there are lots worse things that could happen to you.
If you do a search on the internet for a list of celebrities with herpes, you will find some long lists, with famous sports superstars, movie stars, rock stars, and even a guy who used to work at the White House! The point is, anyone can get it. Herpes knows no social boundaries, and it doesn't matter if you are highly educated or not, or what your spiritual beliefs are or what race you are, or if you are promiscuous or not for that matter. And, it doesn't mean you are a bad person if you have herpes.
The fact is millions and millions of people in the world have herpes. About one in five adults in North America has herpes. In New York City, it is one in four. Think about that next time you are in a check out line at a grocery store or drug store. Someone in front of you or behind you, or the maybe the cashier has herpes. When sitting in a movie theatre, you are surrounded by people with herpes.
Having herpes can be a big distraction in your life, or it can be a minor inconvenience, or no inconvenience at all. The choice is yours. I know this will be hard to believe if you are having frequent outbreaks at this time in your life, and if you have just had a relationship end because of herpes or if you are alone and discouraged about finding a mate. But it is possible. The first thing to know, is that half the people with herpes never have outbreaks. Many do not even know they have it, which is one reason it spreads so easily. The good news is you can learn to be in the fifty percent who do not have herpes. It involves taking good care of yourself emotionally and physically. When you do this, your immune system actually starts to work better, and when your immune system is strong, it keeps the virus in remission and you don't have outbreaks. The worst thing you can do is to isolate and feel sorry for yourself. Studies have shown that when a person with herpes comes out of isolation, and starts to make more social contact, their outbreaks diminish. Also, there are herbal formulas which help strengthen your immune system. Having your immune system strong is your key to reducing or eliminating herpes outbreaks. Then, you can start to think again about having sex and a relationship, and you will start to feel much happier. Many have done just that, so it is possible.
Herpes will then become a minor concern in your life. There are many things that could happen to you which are worse, such as getting a disease that causes you to lose the use of your legs, or getting injured and loosing a hand or a finger for instance. You can think of other examples, and by comparison, herpes is minor.
One of the main causes of depression is longing to change things and not being able to do so. Once we accept what is, and stop wishing we could somehow turn back the clock, we become much happier. Many many others have learned to accept what is, and to get on with life, and as a consequence they are much happier. You can do so too!
I have had herpes for over 16 years, and now I rarely think about it. It was not like this at first of course. But I learned how to prevent herpes outbreaks, and now I help others do the same. I answer questions through the email on my websites, which also tell how to prevent outbreaks.
http://www.herpes-herbs.com/
I know what it is like to feel depressed about it, but I promise you you will feel better.
Dear Dr. Donohue — Give me all the information possible about herpes. I am a carrier. — D.N.
Answer — I take it you're interested in genital herpes — herpes simplex virus-2, HSV-2. The first encounter with the virus leads to an outbreak of tiny, painful blisters on red patches on the genital skin. Fever, headache, muscle pain and pain on urination often are also experienced with a first outbreak. Recurrent attacks are not as severe. Fever, headache and muscle pain do not accompany subsequent outbreaks, but the skin signs are painful. The first year of infection is a year of more-frequent outbreaks. After that, they come less often. If a person is subject to many outbreaks, that person can suppress them by taking Zovirax, Famvir or Valtrex at the first inklings that an outbreak is about to take place. For recurrence after recurrence, a person can go on daily doses of these medicines to keep outbreaks in check.
Once infected, a person stays infected for life. That person is a carrier.
Transmission is a huge problem. Even when a person has no signs of an outbreak, he or she can pass the virus to a partner. Therefore, all sexual partners should be told about the infection. Condoms, while not 100 percent protective, afford a major degree of safety. When a visible outbreak takes place, the infected person ought not to engage in sexual contact.
You are not alone. The herpes-2 virus infects up to 20 percent of the adult population of North America. Bad as it is, it is not the end of life or the end of a sex life.
Dear Dr. Donohue — Can hand sanitizer kill all harmful bacteria? Can the bacteria in probiotics kill off harmful bacteria? Can probiotics cure a strep throat? — D.D.
Answer — By "hand sanitizer," do you mean waterless hand cleaners? Most of them incorporate ethyl alcohol or isopropyl alcohol. They kill many bacteria, but not all harmful ones. Nothing short of sterilization does that.
Frequent hand-washing with soap and water for 20 seconds is an effective way of eliminating many germs, including cold and flu viruses. You don't have to use soap that has antibacterial agents in it. The water doesn't have to be hot; cool water is fine. Dry your hands with a paper, disposable towel and turn off the faucets in a public restroom with a paper towel. Probiotics are products that contain viable bacteria. The bacteria most often incorporated are Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. They restore a more normal bacterial population to the colon and lessen the multiplication of harmful bacteria. They even produce material that can possibly kill off some of the bad bacteria.
Probiotics do not cure a strep throat.
Write Dr. Donohue at P.O. Box 536475, Orlando, Fla. 32853-6475.
Everyone on Twitter considers themselves an expert of one type or another. We figured a woman who grew up with the nickname @BoobsRadley must have plenty of experience discussing issues of love and sex. (Plus, the Huffington Post called her one of the funniest women on Twitter.) Read on to find out how to send your questions to her.
Q: I casually lied about having herpes to get revenge on a girl who dumped me really cruelly. It worked--she freaked out and immediately went to her doctor and got a battery of STD tests. But I've since realized that she doesn't have health insurance, and now I feel like a heel. Should I send her an anonymous check?
I don't know. Are monsters allowed to have checking accounts? Let me just call up the restless demon spirit of Ted Bundy and ask him where he banks. First of all: I understand wanting to get revenge on somebody, because I have gypsy blood and I'm a genius. I get the IMPULSE. I would never act on it in such a weird and horrible way. I don't know if you know this but "a battery of STD" tests probably involves a lot of discomfort and a very long Q-tip. I think the thinking-person's penance for you here is probably to apologize in person and pay for her medical bills, but the viking justice part of me really wants you to shove something up your pee hole. But maybe also for you to go to jail? I don't know, I feel like lying about the herp should be some kind of crime. Anyhow, you're an awful person, thank you for writing in.
Q: I lie about my height on dating sites. I know this seems dishonest, but a lot of girls would't look at me twice if they knew my real measurements (5 feet 4 inches). I've never had anybody openly complain about this, but after the inevitable, initial look of disappointment, I've had some pretty good dates. My lady coworker says this is wrong. Is this wrong?
Everybody lies a LITTLE bit on dating sites. Like, for instance, "The lower half of my body is as thin as the upper, photographed part" or "I'm not going to murder you" or "Love exists." But I'm a firm believer that people should be allowed to have their physical preferences. Which is why I never advocate for anybody dating a chunky gal or nearsighted Asian dudes out of some kind of guilt, because there are plenty of us out there who are into those people, organically, and please leave them for us to have sex with. Likewise, there are women who like short guys. Wouldn't you rather be with somebody who is attracted to you than with somebody who just kind of gave in to your mini-ness? I don't think "Aw, f*** it" is anything you want to think of somebody saying before sexing you. So yes. Stop lying.
Q: My girlfriend is going to study in England next semester. We've tentatively discussed "taking a break" for that time, but I do love her and want to get back together with her eventually. Do "breaks" really work?
England is full of men with accents. Are you aware of this? That accent can take a dude from a 6 to a 10 in seconds flat. I don't know if it's the same way with women--I've tried to do my Eliza Doolittle on strange men in bars and it just makes them back into things while trying to get away from me. But yeah--college semesters abroad are rough on a relationship. But I know plenty of people who have taken breaks and gotten back together. I think it's about whether or not your relationship is sustainable in the first place. It doesn't matter if a girl lives in your dorm or in her charming flat in Notting Hill (I assume all people in England do this).... If you guys are meant to get back together, you will. Also, maybe learn to fake an accent.
Q: I am kind of in love with the new girl I just started seeing. She likes comic books and has a motorcycle and is basically perfect in every way. Except for the fact that she's bulimic. I mean, she hasn't told me that she's bulimic but it's not an easy thing to hide. Should I get out now or is this the kind of thing you run from?
A bulimic motorcycle-loving comic book girl??? I don't know. I think you have to worry about her other boyfriend, Zach Braff. Dude, I can't tell you not to date somebody you're falling for because she's got Mental Problems. I mean, maybe rent "Crazy/Beautiful" and "Mad Love" and that one where Tracey Gold is anorexic to see if you can hang with it. Also, you probably shouldn't be with anybody who is sick. I'd say maybe talk to her about getting some help, because people who are recovering from eating disorders probably need to focus on their wellness and not about the adorable new guy who is on to their barf game. But if you decide to go for it, bring your balls. And probably some Binaca.
Tags Advice Column, Ask Boobs Radley, Boobs Radley, dating advice, Lies, STDs
Researchers at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in New York have found what could be the herpes virus' only redeeming feature — it shows promise as a treatment for an aggressive form of breast cancer, reports MyHealthNewsDaily. The researchers, who presented the study at the annual meeting of the American College of Surgeons this week, started by infecting triple-negative breast cancer cell lines with the NV1066 genetically engineered herpes virus, which killed up to 90 percent of the cancer cells within a week, the article says. Next, the researchers injected mice with the cancer cells. After treating the mice for 20 days with the herpes strain the animals' tumors also disappeared, the article adds. The response may be because triple-negative breast cancers have high levels of the p-MAPK protein, which the herpes virus specifically targets, the researchers say. But the results are still preliminary, and more work needs to be done to determine if the herpes virus will have the same effect in human cancer patients, and whether it would be safe as a treatment, MyHealthNewsDaily adds.
As our society becomes more modern, people have also become bolder. While there might still be disputes about how common genital herpes has become, the fact that a lot of people are suffering from it can't be denied. However, if truth be told, it is not exactly the virus that people are suffering from but the outbreaks.
Are you one of those people enduring the pain brought by genital herpes outbreak? Have you been searching for a more permanent solution to this lifelong malady? There is currently no permanent cure discovered for genital herpes, though there are medication-creams, tablets, and pills-formulated to suppress and perhaps eliminate the outbreaks. The only problem is that these medications are not universal. This means they are proven to work for some but are known to produce minimal to no effect in others.
"Why?"
This is because these medications do not address some of the crucial factors that trigger genital herpes outbreak. The best alternative is a natural method that familiarizes you with the real triggers of the outbreaks, which, in turn, allows you to avoid them. If you can avoid the triggers, then you can avoid the outbreaks. So, what is this natural herpes treatment we are talking about?
Understanding Genital Herpes
Before we take a closer look at the best alternative to genital herpes treatment today, let us first discuss the real triggers of genital herpes outbreak that you are probably not aware of...
Stress
Stress is such a natural occurrence and such a common word that it is something we tend to ignore. However, continuously being under stress can result not only to a tired and weak body but also frequent outbreaks. Yes, you read that right. If you are working relentlessly, if you are facing so many challenges, and if you are beating yourself to make ends meet, your body gets weaker, your immune system starts to fail you, and that's when the genital herpes virus take the opportunity to surface and cause outbreaks-an effect you will probably find more depressing.
Unhealthy Diet
As earlier mentioned, a weak body is more prone to genital herpes outbreak. That said, it's important for you consume a balanced diet of meat, vegetables, and fruits. As much as possible, though, you should avoid food are high in sugar as it is known to weaken the immune. It is also crucial to avoid intake of alcohol as it contains refined sugar and can lead to colon diseases if taken regularly and in heavy amounts. It is best to increase your water intake instead.
Menstrual Period
Females suffering from genital herpes outbreak need to be more careful when it comes to their menstrual periods, especially the seven days before the first day of cycle. This is because it's a time when the immune system is weak, as the body prepares to lose blood. The fact that hormones are not balanced during such times makes women even more vulnerable to outbreaks. Genital herpes outbreak before menstrual cycles brings not only irritation but also additional pain, especially in the pelvic region.
Natural Genital Herpes Treatments
Now that you are familiar with some of the triggers of outbreak, which most people tend to ignore, we can now better understand the alternative genital herpes solutions that are found to be easier to follow and, even better, friendlier to our pockets. These solutions are meditation, hypnosis, and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP).
You are probably asking "How can these treatments be more effective than tested and recommended medications?"
Wonders of Meditation, Hypnosis, and NLP
While proven herpes medications can really be helpful, they only focus on suppressing the virus-they ignore other factors that greatly affect the frequency of outbreaks. Through meditation, hypnosis, and NLP, you will be able to be more in tune with your body, so to say.
By relaxing your body and mind, you can easily reduce or eliminate stress, regardless of your circumstances. This takes out the number one trigger of genital herpes outbreak. On the other hand, by discovering the right food to eat and by knowing the natural ways to combat the herpes simplex virus, your body will feel better. This provides the solution to the second trigger. The third trigger, menstrual period, can't be completely eliminated as it is a natural occurrence in women. However, if you maintain a healthy diet, learn how to relax your mind and body, and retain a composed mental and hormone balance state during this period, you can highly reduce the risks of getting outbreaks.
Getting the freedom you desire from herpes can be achieved with ease. By understanding the triggers of herpes and learning the methods to avoid those triggers, you will find that the solution to herpes is actually easier than you first thought. The Solution to Herpes is exactly the program that can help you accomplish that. It has already helped and is continuously helping a lot of herpes patients. It is just waiting for you to discover the wonderful benefits of meditation, hypnosis, and neuro-linguistic programming.
There is nothing to lose when you choose to learn more about this program, so why don't you give it a try? Visit The Solution to Herpes, and you might just find the solution you have been looking for.
What could be the solution to suppressing Herpes forever? Well, that would have been a tough question years ago, especially for some who have personally experience the pain, the itch and the tingling sensation. If you have been suffering from Herpes outbreaks for quite some time now, then worry no more! A relatively new and effective Herpes treatment has been developed.
You probably have an idea what herpes is all about. It is a sexually transmitted disease common to adults; and usually, people who are carrying the herpes virus do not have the idea they have it or maybe they are most likely in denial that they were already infected with the herpes virus. Symptoms include itching in the genital area, redness, pain in the legs and groin followed by small cracks in the skin and tiny sores.
Once you are infected by the herpes virus it never goes away, that is the truth. It then stays in your nerves and there is no way that you can destroy it completely and be permanently cured. Traditional medication can also help such as pain relievers and other anti viral medications but that's just it; virus outbreak may still occur from time to time. What is more interesting to know is that, there is this all natural herpes treatment that can help you eliminate further herpes virus outbreak; an alternative treatment which will help you free from the herpes outbreak recurrence.
This all natural way of suppressing future herpes outbreaks involves NLP approach or Neuro-Linguistic Programming, meditation and hypnosis. These programs ensure that the virus will no longer activate and will remain dormant forever. It also gives a positive result by keeping yourself free from negative emotions which are common factors that weaken our immune system. Our immune system is our body's natural defense against harmful bacteria; it prevents us from becoming susceptible to diseases and infections. These alternative methods of herpes treatment do not only help you ease the pain and irritation but lets you live a healthy life.
This must be the reason why some people who are carrying the herpes virus do not have the idea that they were already infected by the virus because they do not experience outbreaks. The reason behind is that, they have a strong immune system that helps fight back virus that attacks the body to prevent the outbreak to occur.
However, this may sound interesting, this does not mean you are permanently free of the herpes virus, and will prevent you from passing this disease to other people in case there is a skin contact. The above mentioned programs teach you various techniques to suppress the virus so you feel free and as if you don't have it any more. These all-natural treatments for herpes will not only stop you from experiencing outbreak; these will also lead you to a healthy lifestyle and a positive outlook in life. No expensive prescribed medication with horrible side effects needed. This is all about you!
If you are interested to know more about how an alternative herpes treatment works, why not try some Herpes Treatment Program and find out what difference it can do to you!
Irene is a freelance article writer who wants to help business entrepreneur find their place in the world of online business.
Monday, September 5, 2011
MELISSA (real name withheld upon request), a freshman college student of a sectarian academic institution, sought consultation at the school clinic for complaints of burning sores and blisters on her lips. Upon initial inspection by the school physician, she was informed without further explanation that her case would have to be referred to a specialist.
Puzzled yet decided, she went to a specialist and was diagnosed with herpes, a form of venereal disease.
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Venereal disease, as defined by medical literatures, is an umbrella term for a host of sexually transmitted diseases (STD) or sexually transmitted infections (STI).
According to medical linguists, the latter term is preferred over the previous as other infected patients may have concealed clinical manifestations or symptoms but do not necessarily make them less contagious.
During the ‘80s and early ‘90s, the euphemistic term “venereal disease” was used universally to pertain to STIs associating the disease to Venus, the Roman Goddess of Love.
In a medical anthropologic perspective, this is explained by the belief that the “act of lovemaking” is the sole cause for such morbidity.
However, this previous belief is dispelled by contemporary literatures extending the possibility of contracting it with non-sexual behaviors like sharing of intravenous needles.
In the eye of a sociologist, venereal diseases may be euphemistically termed as a “social infirmity,” as conscious human behaviours -- promiscuity, concubinage and philandering -- dictate the susceptibility of a person or group of persons in contracting such a disease.
According to an online medical dictionary, the microbiologic causes of venereal diseases may range from a bacterial, fungal, protozoal and parasitic to a viral organism.
Since the medical jargon venereal disease is an umbrella term, one of the diseases it describes is what is known as “Herpes.”
“Herpes or Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a viral disease caused by both herpes simplex virus 1 and 2,” as explained in the book entitled “The Textbook of Venereal Diseases.”
It maintains that of the two, HSV 1 is associated with infections of the mouth, lips and face and it’s the most common herpes occurring in childhood.
On the other hand, it says that HSV 2, although may share symptoms with HSV1, may remain asymptomatic, meaning no symptoms for certain individuals.
According to Dr. Carol Porth, author of the famed book Pathophysiology: “HSV 1 is associated with cold sores in the mouth while HSV 2 is to genital herpes.”
Dr. Porth explains that both HSV1 and HSV2 are known as Neurotropic viruses, meaning they grow in the neurons of the affected individual even in the absence of signs and symptoms.
She says the incubation period for HSV is two to 10 days.
“The virus can remain dormant for a long period of time until something triggers it although the mechanism is still poorly understood,” she said.
Health experts claim that the symptoms of herpes include tingling, itching and pain on the site of infection. This is then followed by an eruption of small pustules and vesicles. Upon eruption, the broken skin is excruciatingly painful to touch.
“Untreated infections are usually self-limiting and may last approximately two to four weeks. However, recurrence is always a possibility,” says Dr. Amanda Patterson, an American Obstetrician.
According to pathologists, the diagnosis of herpes is based on the symptoms, appearance of lesions and identification of virus.
“There is no known cure for HSV and the modes of treatment are largely symptomatic,” Dr. Patterson emphasized.
“Topical treatment with antibacterial soaps, lotions and ultraviolet lights have been tried but with little success,” Dr. Porth adds.
Some experts suggest the use of cool compress, sitz bath, topical anesthetics and oral analgesics.
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) suggests that good hygiene is essential to prevent secondary infection. An example would be meticulous hand washing and to avoid hand to eye contact as it can cause blindness once herpes infects the eyes.
On the other hand, despite the advancement in medical knowledge and research, the so-called “old myths” or “folk beliefs” surrounding STDs still flourish in this era.
The following are examples of myths related to herpes: (1) A person can usually predict when their herpes may be contagious; (2) Condoms provide complete protection against spreading genital herpes; (3) Only promiscuous people get genital herpes; (4) Genital herpes can only be transmitted via penetrative sex; (5) Herpes can be transmitted via inanimate objects; (6) If you are in a monogamous relationship and get genital herpes, your partner must be cheating on you.
To counter such myths, the following are the collective answers of medical experts: (1) The herpes virus can be active on the surface of the skin without showing any signs or causing any symptoms; (2) Condoms cannot totally protect anyone from herpes; it only reduces the risk; (3) Genital herpes can affect anyone however; the number of sexual partners is not a reliable factor in contracting the disease as, contrary to other STDs, genital herpes persists indefinitely and can be transmitted for many years, perhaps for life; (4) Genital Herpes can be transmitted via oral, anal and vaginal sex. The majority of transmission occurs when the blisters or sores are invisible; (5) Inanimate objects cannot harbor herpes as the virus would need a break in the skin in order to penetrate and it cannot survive without a live host; (6) You or your partner may have contracted the virus from a sexual partner a long time ago, or, you or your partner may have had genital herpes all along without knowing it. Herpes outbreaks can occur with very mild symptoms that go unnoticed.
As for Melissa, she was certain she had not had any sexual encounters for the past month. She exerts that her boyfriend had not manifested any related symptoms and that they had a monogamous relationship.
She has been prescribed with a vitamin supplement, a number of antiviral tablets and an antiviral topical cream to be applied on her lips at least four times a day.
To save you all the troubles, always remember that prevention is better than cure. (Comments may be sent to polo.journalist@gmail.com)
Published in the Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro newspaper on September 06, 2011.
Genital Herpes is a misunderstood illness, and I hope to dispel some myths with the publication of this article. Perhaps the first thing to note is that the majority of people are infected with one strain of herpes - HSV 1, also known as the common cold sore! Of course it has less of a stigma attached, so let's look at the facts about genital herpes:
What symptoms does genital herpes carry?
The trouble with herpes is that in many people, the symptoms are so mild that they may pass unnoticed. This is good on one level as it won't affect your life, but on the other hand, you're at risk of passing the HSV 2 virus onto another unawares, who may suffer far more discomfort than you.
If symptoms do appear, They tend to appear periodically in "episodes" (or "outbreaks"). As for when, again it varies from person to person. It may be days after contracting the virus, it could be months to years. When it first strikes, the sufferer typically feels flu-like symptoms - fever, headaches and pains in the back and leg. The good news is that these symptoms usually are only present in the first outbreak of HSV 2.
From then on, most genital herpes episodes produce small blisters which then break to form painful shallow sores. After 1-2 weeks, these scab over and then heal. Often the first outbreak is significantly more uncomfortable than future episodes.
If you're thinking this sounds like a cold sore, but for the genitals, you're right. Although HSV 1 (cold sores) is not the same as HSV 2, the symptoms are similar enough for you to think of genital herpes as a cold sore that forms around the genitals, anus, buttocks and thighs. And like cold sores, the virus stays in the body once the genital herpes symptoms have vanished, and can cause recurrent outbreaks at any time.
Are recurrent outbreaks linked to any behaviour?
Yes and no. Triggers for outbreaks of genital herpes can be linked to sex, menstruation, general illness or stress, but often you'll see no explanation and an episode appears without a trigger.
It's important to note that recurrent attacks are caused by the dormant virus in the body and not by re-infection. In most causes the repeat episodes become less frequent over time, and some sufferers can look forward to a time when the attacks stop altogether.
How is HSV 2 spread?
The HSV 2 virus is spread through skin to skin contact, which means sexual contact is largely the cause. Remember that as many people show few to no symptoms, it's possible to pass on the virus to someone even if the sufferer shows no symptoms.
How do I prevent transmission?
There's no sure-fire way to prevent transmission, because it can be passed with no obvious sores, but there are ways of minimising the risk. The first is to avoid having any kind of sexual contact with someone immediately before or during an outbreak of genital herpes. Condoms will stop transmission across the area covered, but of course they only cover the penis, so if sores are elsewhere transmission can still occur.
There are a number of dating sites set up to match singles with genital herpes - of course, people cannot be reinfected, so sufferers having sexual contact with each other are not at risk from the disease!
I think I have it - what's does the test for herpes involve?
The herpes test involves taking a sample from the area of the body infected during an outbreak. The HSV 2 virus will usually grow in a swab taken from a open blister. It can then be determined which type - HSV 1 or 2 - you have. HSV 1 is rarer in a genital infection.
The other herpes test is taken via a blood sample. The advantage of this is that you don't need to be having an outbreak to take the test, but it has downsides too. It can't tell you which part of the body is infected (lips or genitals), it can't tell you whether you are likely to display symptoms or not and if can't reveal if general symptoms you've had are down to the HSV virus. Consult your doctor to discuss which herpes test is for you.
Is there a risk of transmission through childbirth?
Pregnant women with genital herpes may pass the virus onto their baby during delivery causing serious illness. This thankfully isn't common, but the medical staff should be told if you carry the virus so that risk of complications can be minimised.
Is there a cure for genital herpes?
Sadly there is no cure for HSV 2, and once the virus is in the body it is there for life. There are ways of managing the symptoms though, thankfully. Iodine paint will dry out the blisters and help prevent secondary infection, while salt baths are good at relieving discomfort.
Anti-viral medication can also be prescribed, and this will help reduce the severity of an outbreak If taken early enough (within 3 days of the symptoms appearing is best). For the unlucky few who suffer from regular outbreaks, some antiviral drugs including aciclovir, famciclovir and valaciclovir can be taken continuously. This will stop most outbreaks from occurring allowing minimal disruption.
Genital herpes has a very bad reputation, but as STDs go, it's actually comparatively harmless and certainly is no bar to living a full, happy and sexually fulfilled life. If in doubt, get a herpes test - you have very little to worry about even if you are infected!
Tim Leach is the Marketing Manager of USA Lab Testing, providers of local Herpes tests.
One of the most complicated and a fearful genetic infection is the infection caused by the herpes virus. This is one of the viruses that are thought to be extremely infectious in nature as it can get sexually transmitted or also through getting in contact with a herpes infected person. The moment contracted this virus cannot be cured Most individuals infected with this virus would not even know about the infection until the outbreak happens as these viruses stay in a dormant stage for quite long time in the nervous system of the individual. No true treatment for herpes exists till date.
The sickness caused by this virus is though not life threatening, but can be incredibly uncomfortable and scary in nature. They are in the form of a cold sore or genital herpes. The doctors and scientists all around the world are struggling hard to discover an everlasting remedy for herpes with no true success till date. There are many treatments for herpes ranging from home remedies to chemical substance and medicines. One has to select the therapy based on the severity and after consultation with the doctor for better outcomes and to avoid additional issues.
Some of the treatments for herpes are listed under:
- The finest treatment method for herpes which can be done with the use of ingredients available at house is the coconut oil application. This helps battle the herpes virus, keeping the appropriate balance of the nutrients rich in lysine. Keep away from acidic meals and chocolates, peanuts and grains containing arginine.
- Keeping an ice pack on the sores would help avoid spreading of the same.
- Famvir is one of the antiviral medicines. This medicine includes famciclovir which helps contain the growth of the herpes virus helping control the spreading.
- Valtrex is an additional medication that can give relief from the itching and expansion of the herpes virus.
- Avoid touching the sores and drink plenty of water for better benefits.
All the above mentioned therapy for herpes can only control the severity of the outbreak. Regular intake of the tablets will help keep the virus in the dormant stage and support control the outbreak. It is very crucial to bear in mind that one would have to consult the doctor for an early diagnose to keep the spreading of the virus under check with early treatment. Get a proper treatment for herpes by knowing in detail about the symptoms and signs of herpes.
Get to know more about symptoms of herpes
There is often some confusion when it comes to herpes and that is easy to understand. The genital herpes is a topic that is not often discussed in the course of normal conversation. But, if you are 25 years old and over and sexually active with several partners, it is wise to be tested for genital herpes as that is a very common form of herpes. It is wise as millions of americans are living with genital herpes because the disease can sometimes be surprisingly difficult to detect.
It is important to know and to recognize the symptoms of genital herpes. You should always seek an official diagnosis from a medical professional if you are at all concerned that you may have the disease. Many feel ashamed when they learn to know that they have genital herpes but medical experts will tell that you should not be embarrassed and the sooner you get treatment the better. When you have been diagnosed as positive, it is not necessary to identify the source and you may have had it for years already.
Doctors will tell you that it is safe to have sex with others as long as you avoid to have sex during outbreaks. You can learn to notice the warning signs of when an outbreak will be coming. It is a fact that most people infected with oral herpes are not even aware of the fact that they have the disease.
More than half of the people who have herpes show no symptoms and they are unaware that they are carriers of the disease and are capable of transferring the virus. The recurrence pattern of herpes is also as varied as the people who harbor the virus. There are estimations that 20% of the population in the USA has herpes. That is one out of five people! Now, that number is uncertain and can be a distortion of the facts.
If the signs and symptoms occur during the first outbreak, then they can be rather severe as the first attack is pretty violent. Then the virus remains dormant within the neuronal cells of the dorsal root ganglion. It will give rise to recurrent lesions but they are milder in intensity as compared to the primary attack.
This is one of the least damaging viruses and actually milder even than its relatives, the chicken-pox/shingles virus and the mono/chronic fatigue virus. The herpes simplex virus 1 is generally caught in the childhood and the genital infection from herpes simplex virus 2 is usually caused by sexual contact in the adulthood. The incubation period for genital herpes infections is up to a fortnight after exposure to the virus. Teenagers and adults who are sexually active should never have unprotected sex with a person who they even suspect may be infected by genital herpes.
Of course it can be difficult to ask someone if they are aware of having genital herpes. But how can you tell if someone has genital herpes? Pregnant women who have ever had an outbreak of genital herpes should discuss with the obstetrician before the due date. Then they can eventually plan for a non-vaginal delivery and in that way protect the baby.
Persons that are infected with genital herpes should have mercy and give others the chance to avoid the disease. One alternative is to avoid any sexual contact, which of course is very hard for most. So if you have genital herpes, you must tell your new sex partner about it and then decide about your intimate contacts.
Louise Wasa always shares valuable information. A related resource is Warts Removal Further information can be found at Healthy Weight Loss
There is often some confusion when it comes to herpes and that is easy to understand. The genital herpes is a topic that is not often discussed in the course of normal conversation. But, if you are 25 years old and over and sexually active with several partners, it is wise to be tested for genital herpes as that is a very common form of herpes. It is wise as millions of americans are living with genital herpes because the disease can sometimes be surprisingly difficult to detect.
It is important to know and to recognize the symptoms of genital herpes. You should always seek an official diagnosis from a medical professional if you are at all concerned that you may have the disease. Many feel ashamed when they learn to know that they have genital herpes but medical experts will tell that you should not be embarrassed and the sooner you get treatment the better. When you have been diagnosed as positive, it is not necessary to identify the source and you may have had it for years already.
Doctors will tell you that it is safe to have sex with others as long as you avoid to have sex during outbreaks. You can learn to notice the warning signs of when an outbreak will be coming. It is a fact that most people infected with oral herpes are not even aware of the fact that they have the disease.
More than half of the people who have herpes show no symptoms and they are unaware that they are carriers of the disease and are capable of transferring the virus. The recurrence pattern of herpes is also as varied as the people who harbor the virus. There are estimations that 20% of the population in the USA has herpes. That is one out of five people! Now, that number is uncertain and can be a distortion of the facts.
If the signs and symptoms occur during the first outbreak, then they can be rather severe as the first attack is pretty violent. Then the virus remains dormant within the neuronal cells of the dorsal root ganglion. It will give rise to recurrent lesions but they are milder in intensity as compared to the primary attack.
This is one of the least damaging viruses and actually milder even than its relatives, the chicken-pox/shingles virus and the mono/chronic fatigue virus. The herpes simplex virus 1 is generally caught in the childhood and the genital infection from herpes simplex virus 2 is usually caused by sexual contact in the adulthood. The incubation period for genital herpes infections is up to a fortnight after exposure to the virus. Teenagers and adults who are sexually active should never have unprotected sex with a person who they even suspect may be infected by genital herpes.
Of course it can be difficult to ask someone if they are aware of having genital herpes. But how can you tell if someone has genital herpes? Pregnant women who have ever had an outbreak of genital herpes should discuss with the obstetrician before the due date. Then they can eventually plan for a non-vaginal delivery and in that way protect the baby.
Persons that are infected with genital herpes should have mercy and give others the chance to avoid the disease. One alternative is to avoid any sexual contact, which of course is very hard for most. So if you have genital herpes, you must tell your new sex partner about it and then decide about your intimate contacts.
Louise Wasa always shares valuable information. A related resource is Warts Removal Further information can be found at Healthy Weight Loss
