What is it?
Herpes is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus [HSV]. There are two types of HSV, types 1 and 2. They can cause painful sores around the mouth which are called cold sores. They can also cause sores on the genitals. This in know as genital herpes.
How do you get it?
How can you tell if you have it?
A large number of people infected with herpes will not have symptoms and therefore you may not know you have it. If you have herpes symptoms you will most likely feel itching or tingling on your skin and then develop painful blisters that turn into sores. It will heal by itself. When you first have an outbreak of herpes, you may also feel like you have the flu and symptoms may last several weeks.
Can it keep coming back?
Yes, the first outbreak of herpes is usually the worst. You may get more than one outbreak. These are called recurrences and they tend to be milder than the first outbreak. The reinfection might appear again because you:
If you have herpes, you have to rest, eat well and exercise.
How do you get tested?
A doctor or nurse checks your sores. They may also take a swab from your sores. In some places, the doctor may order a blood test to help in the diagnosis of herpes.
How is it treated?
It cannot be cured but it can be managed. There are medications that may help to prevent outbreaks or reduce the length of time that an outbreak lasts. The doctor may also prescribe a medication for pain if your outbreaks are severe.
What can you do if you have a herpes outbreak?
How can you prevent passing on the virus?