Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are among the most personal medical conditions that someone might contract. There are multiple types of STIs; however, one of the most common (and also most misunderstood) is Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). Because this virus is so misunderstood, there are a few important points that everyone should keep in mind. To start, there are two separate types of Herpes Simplex Virus. These are:
HSV1: Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (often shortened to HSV 1) is the first type of virus. This is the oral type of virus that causes the stereotypical coldsores that most people are familiar with. These sores show up in and around the mouth. This virus is transmitted mostly through contact with saliva or open lesions (such as through kissing).
HSV2: Herpes Simplex Virus 2, shortened to HSV 2, is the other type of virus. This is the genital type. This type of virus causes genital wars in and around the genital and anal regions. This is spread almost exclusively through sexual contact.
Once this virus infects somebody, it can be treated; however, it cannot be cured. The virus will enter a latent state and it might manifest again from time to time. This is typically called an outbreak. There are a few common things that people should avoid during a herpes outbreak.
Common Triggers for a Herpes Outbreak
There are a few common triggers of a Herpes Simplex Virus outbreak that people should avoid. Some of these include:
Stress: Stress is one of the most common triggers of a Herpes Simplex Virus outbreak. When someone is stressed, it can cause this virus to return.
Weakened Immune State: The immune virus is responsible for fighting off invaders. These invaders include bacteria and viruses. Sometimes, these invaders can actually weaken the immune system by reducing the white blood cell count. This can cause the virus to reactivate.
Hormone Disruptions: Hormonal changes also have the potential to cause a Herpes Simplex Virus outbreak. These hormonal changes can vary from person to person, just as the triggers themselves.
Activities to Avoid During a Herpes Outbreak
If there is an active Herpes Simplex Virus outbreak, there are a few activities that everyone needs to avoid. Some of the activities to avoid during a Herpes Simplex Virus include:
Kissing: Because Herpes Simplex Virus 1 is triggered by directly contacting saliva or open sores, people should avoid kissing. This can lead to the transmission of the virus from person to person.
Sexual Activity: Herpes Simplex Virus 2 is transmitted almost exclusively by sexual contact. Contact with genital herpes spreads this virus from person to person. Those who do have sex during an active outbreak need to make sure they wear a condom.
Foods to Avoid During a Herpes Outbreak
In addition, there are a number of foods that people should avoid as well. The virus requires certain amino acids in order to replicate and build other copies of the virus. Specifically, the amino acid arginine has been implicated in the spread of Herpes Simplex Virus. Therefore, people should try to avoid foods that are high in this amino acid such as rice, peanuts, and chocolate. On the other hand, the amino acid lysine has been shown to reduce the severity of a Herpes Simplex Virus infection. Some people even recommend taking lysine supplements to reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.
Treatment Options for Herpes Simplex Virus
When someone has been infected with Herpes Simplex Virus, it is important to seek medical care as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, it can take days or even weeks to see a doctor. Now, there is a better way. HerpAlert is one of the leading companies in the field of telemedicine. With HerpAlert, individuals who have concerns about Herpes Simplex Virus can see a doctor quickly in a virtual manner. This is a dedicated pool of doctors who understand how personal the topic of STIs is. This team of doctors can take a look at the lesions on a screen and, if necessary, can prescribe valacyclovir (Valtrex) to treat Herpes Simplex Virus quickly and effectively. Rely on HerpAlert for quick and effective treatment of Herpes Simplex Virus.