Current Treatments for Genital Herpes (available to buy online)
What is Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is a common and contagious viral infection that affects the genital area of both men and women. It is caused by two different types of viruses, the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).
Genital herpes can cause painful sores, itching, burning, and an array of other symptoms. While there is no cure for genital herpes, treatments exist to help control outbreaks and reduce symptoms. In this article, we will look at the symptoms, causes, and treatment of genital herpes.
The pain associated with genital herpes can range from mild discomfort to extreme agony. Symptoms may include:
- Blisters or sores in the genital area
- Itching or burning sensations in the affected area
- Difficulty while urinating due to inflammation of the urinary tract
- Muscle aches and pains in the lower back and legs
- Fatigue, fever and swollen lymph nodes.
- In cases where HSV-2 is present without any outbreak symptoms being experienced, it is known as asymptomatic shedding.
Genital herpes, a common sexually transmitted infection, affects nearly one in every six Brits aged 18 to 49 years old according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Genital Herpes Symptoms
- The first symptoms of genital herpes may be small red bumps or white blisters, which may rupture and form an ulcer. A fever can also be associated with the sores.
- General symptoms range from painful sores to difficulty urinating.
- In men, the outbreak usually occurs on the penis
- In women, it may appear on the cervix or labia.
- In both sexes, sores may also appear in the anal region and rectum.
Genital Herpes is a common virus that impacts many people worldwide. If you’re uncertain whether you have it, you should consult a doctor for a diagnosis. If you suspect you have the disease, there are some things you should do to protect yourself.
Symptoms of genital herpes vary from person to person and can range from a single sore to a dense cluster of sores. There are subclinical cases and serious ones. The symptoms can vary so widely that you may mistake genital herpes for a different condition. The infection can be a sign of another illness, such as syphilis, which is caused by the bacteria Treponema pallidum. Symptoms of syphilis are often the same as those of genital herpes and may be more difficult to detect.
Fortunately, there are several treatment options to treat genital herpes. A prescription for an antiviral medication can relieve the pain associated with the outbreak. Antiviral creams and tablets are also effective for treating mild outbreaks. In more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe intravenous antivirals. Additionally, women who have herpes are advised to get a home test.
What Causes Genital Herpes?
Genital herpes is caused by two types of viruses: Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 (HSV-1) and Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2). While HSV-1 is more commonly associated with oral herpes, it can cause genital herpes as well.
On the other hand, HSV-2 more commonly causes genital lesions. It is important to note that both viral types are highly contagious regardless if there are visible signs or not.
- Contact with infected skin or secretions from an infected person. This includes kissing, sexual intercourse, and any other intimate contact that involves skin-to-skin contact with an infected individual.
- An infected mother to her baby during childbirth.
- Sharing items such as razors or towels with someone who has the virus.
Genital Herpes Testing
The only way to know for sure if you have genital herpes is to take a genital herpes test. This procedure involves taking a sample from the sore, which is then sent to a lab for a virus test. The result of the test takes anywhere from one to seven days to come back. Ideally, you should take the test within 48 hours of onset of symptoms, as the virus level decreases over time, and it can result in false negative results.
The symptoms of herpes may not show up for up to 12 days. Often the results of the test will be sent within 5 days. Some people who find the stigma surrounding herpes more debilitating than the disease itself. Fortunately, there are now several online screening and testing options that are inexpensive and convenient.
The two main methods of detecting herpes are viral culture and PCR. Although both methods are effective, viral culture is not completely reliable because it requires a live virus. If the sample contains a large amount of virus, then it can be detected. However, if the test is negative, this does not mean you don’t have herpes. You may need further testing to confirm your condition. This test will determine whether you’re experiencing the symptoms of herpes.
Genital Herpes Online Treatment
Recent estimates suggest that, globally, over 500 million people are infected with the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which is responsible for genital herpes.
Treatment for genital herpes includes antiviral medication. Taking antiviral medication may help reduce the severity of an outbreak and its duration. Although topical antiviral creams are not effective, oral medications can reduce the number of outbreaks by reducing the risk of transmission. The medications can also be used to prevent transmission of the disease to others. Antiviral drugs are available through your general practitioner or medical practitioner.
Antiviral drugs are the first-line treatment for genital herpes. These drugs reduce the severity of outbreaks and reduce the transmission of the disease. While they are not a cure, they can help you stay symptom-free for longer. Most people can take antiviral medications as needed to reduce their symptoms. Antiviral drugs come in pills or tablets. Some are administered intravenously.
The treatment for genital herpes involves taking antiviral medication daily, usually for about 72 hours. This is known as suppressive therapy, and it can reduce outbreaks by 70% or more. It is important to take this medication regularly, though, so as not to transmit the disease to uninfected partners. If you start taking antiviral medication regularly, your outbreaks will be less frequent and shorter, and your chances of spreading the infection to other people will be much lower.
These medications can help you reduce your risk of passing the virus to a partner. If you cannot avoid intercourse, it’s best to wear condoms. If you can’t keep the infection under control, antiviral medications can help you reduce the frequency of outbreaks and help them heal faster.
If you are diagnosed with genital herpes, you need to seek medical help as soon as possible. While the disease can lie dormant in the body for years, treatment is still essential to prevent the spread of the virus. You can also educate yourself about the condition and find resources to help you manage outbreaks. Some individuals become completely free of it.
Medication to Treat Genital Herpes
Aciclovir
Valaciclovir
Valtrex
Acivlovir Cream
Aciclovir
Antiviral medication is the most effective treatment for genital herpes. It can help people with the disease stay symptom-free for a longer period of time, as well as reduce the frequency and severity of the outbreaks. However, antiviral drugs are not a cure for the condition. Most patients take antiviral drugs in pill form, but in severe cases, a doctor may prescribe intravenous aciclovir.
Many choose to buy their medications online.
Preventive measures are necessary for people with genital herpes. Using latex condoms, avoiding contact with infected areas, and washing hands frequently are all important steps to reduce the risk of herpes transmission. However, some women may not be aware of their infection for several months or even years. This makes a diagnosis more challenging. While valaciclovir can help reduce the symptoms of genital herpes, it doesn’t remove the virus from your body. You can still develop a herpes infection without taking any medications.
Early reactivation symptoms include itching, tingling, or painful feelings in the genital area. These symptoms are called ‘prodrome’ and generally occur a day or two before lesions are visible. If you feel any of these symptoms, you should consult a doctor. The doctor can perform a swab test to confirm the presence of the virus. It is vital to learn the signs and symptoms of the disease before seeking treatment.
FAQ
How serious is genital herpes?
Genital herpes symptoms include blisters and sores on the genital area. For women, they are most commonly found on the vagina, outer labia and vulva, buttocks, and anus. For men, it can be found on the penis and scrotum. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, and difficulty passing urine. Recurrences tend to be less painful and less frequent than the initial episode. The infection is usually spread by sexual contact.
How long do genital herpes last for?
The duration of herpes depends on the type of outbreaks you experience. Outbreaks are generally accompanied by a sore, blister, ulcer, and split skin. Asymptomatic viral shedding, which occurs when the virus remains on the surface of the skin without causing an outbreak, can be equally as contagious. The virus is also spread through mouth-to-genital skin contact. During outbreaks, your doctor will likely look for physical symptoms and check your overall health.
Are genital herpes only sexually transmitted?
Are genital herpes only sexual in transmission? You should try to avoid sexual activity if you are infected with herpes, and always use condoms. Using condoms is also recommended if you have an ulcer on your genitals.
What are the signs of herpes on a woman?
For women, they are most commonly found on the vagina and vulva, buttocks, and anus.
What are the signs of herpes on a man?
For men, it can be found on the penis and scrotum.
How common is genital herpes?
Herpes is a contagious disease that affects one in six adults in the United Kingdom. The virus remains contagious throughout the lifetime of the infected person. Although the symptoms of herpes may vary from one person to another, they remain contagious for as long as an outbreak lasts. The best way to prevent herpes is to avoid sexual contact with infected partners, and use a condom.
Conclusion
The prevalence of genital herpes highlights the need for individuals to understand their risk factors and take preventative measures when engaging in any type of sexual activity. As healthcare professionals continue to research new treatments for this condition, it is important to remember that awareness and education remain key components for preventing its spread among our population.