Genital Herpes is a recurrent, lifelong sexually transmitted infection (STI) with no cure. It is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). There are two forms of the Herpes simplex virus. Herpes Simplex 1 and Herpes Simplex 2. Genital Herpes is caused by HSV 2. The difference between these two viral strains are HSV 1 typically causes cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth. Although, this strain can be spread to the genital area during oral sex, even when physical signs of an outbreak are not present. HSV 2 commonly causes genital herpes. It spreads through sexual contact and skin-to-skin contact. HSV 2 is very common and highly contagious, again whether or not you have an open sore (mayoclinic.org, 2014).
Genital Herpes is characterized …show more content…
It is important that during an outbreak, the patient keep the affected area clean and dry, making sure to wash their hands after coming into contact with any part of the infected area. Wearing loose fitting clothing may also provide relief from irritation and using an ice pack on the area may be soothing for those experiencing a burning sensation. Back in 2000 and 2001 two studies were done in an attempt to offset or modify the effects of the genital herpes virus. The study included taking 1,000 mg of L-Lysine three times daily, 125 mg of aspirin per day, applying creams or gels that contain licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) three times per day, applying lemon balm four times per day, using a topical zinc daily and 0.5 percent Aloe Vera cream three times a day. However, the studies done on all of these remedies are still considered in the preliminary stage until randomized controlled trials can be conducted (Stanberry, 2000 and Spruance, …show more content…
Although there is no cure for the virus, the antiviral medications do provide some relief when used consistently over time. Also, there are intravenous versions of the antiviral for those patients that experience widespread outbreaks that leave them susceptible to opportunistic infections. It is highly recommended that persons affected with gential herpes seek support with their emotional wellbeing. The stigma that accompanies such a diagnosis can be very overwhelming which is why there are several support groups across the country to help patients cope with the infection as well as educating patients on limiting and eliminating exposure to other parties (CDC,
Genital Herpes is characterized …show more content…
It is important that during an outbreak, the patient keep the affected area clean and dry, making sure to wash their hands after coming into contact with any part of the infected area. Wearing loose fitting clothing may also provide relief from irritation and using an ice pack on the area may be soothing for those experiencing a burning sensation. Back in 2000 and 2001 two studies were done in an attempt to offset or modify the effects of the genital herpes virus. The study included taking 1,000 mg of L-Lysine three times daily, 125 mg of aspirin per day, applying creams or gels that contain licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) three times per day, applying lemon balm four times per day, using a topical zinc daily and 0.5 percent Aloe Vera cream three times a day. However, the studies done on all of these remedies are still considered in the preliminary stage until randomized controlled trials can be conducted (Stanberry, 2000 and Spruance, …show more content…
Although there is no cure for the virus, the antiviral medications do provide some relief when used consistently over time. Also, there are intravenous versions of the antiviral for those patients that experience widespread outbreaks that leave them susceptible to opportunistic infections. It is highly recommended that persons affected with gential herpes seek support with their emotional wellbeing. The stigma that accompanies such a diagnosis can be very overwhelming which is why there are several support groups across the country to help patients cope with the infection as well as educating patients on limiting and eliminating exposure to other parties (CDC,