Herpes Simplex

What is Herpes Simplex?

Herpes Simplex is a class of viral infections for which there is no known cure. When the virus is referred to, it is often meant to include the sexually transmitted version of the disease, which is called HSV-2. In actuality, Herpes Simplex consists of two primary versions. The virus is further categorized into classifications based on where the infection manifests itself. Herpes Simplex is not a life-threatening condition for the vast majority of the population. However, it does tend to be an annoyance, as it remains with the individual for the rest of their lives.

What Are the Different Types of the Herpes Simplex Virus?

Herpes Simplex can manifest itself as oral herpes, genital herpes, herpes gladiatorum, ocular herpes keratitis, encephalitis, neonatal herpes, herpetic whitlow, and possibly, in Bell's palsy.

The oral herpes version is the most common, and is manifested as visible blisters upon the face or in the mouth. These blisters are commonly referred to as cold sores or fever blisters, as illness tends to exacerbate the herpes virus and therefore causing outbreaks in these areas. Oral herpes is a version 1 type of Herpes Simplex. Oral herpes is commonly contracted at an early age through contact of the lips of an infected person, such as well-wishing family members or friends. Often, individuals will have a cold sore or blister on their lips and, not knowing the risk of transmitting the virus, will kiss young children upon the lips, thereby infecting the child.

After oral herpes, the next most common variety is genital herpes, classified as such due to manifestations in the genital and anal areas. Genital herpes are transmitted primarily through sexual contact with an infected person. Genital herpes manifests itself as sores and blisters. The virus can be spread whether or not there are open blisters.

Ocular herpes keratitis is the third most common version of Herpes Simplex. This variety of the virus infects the eyes and is manifested by a cloudy appearance of the cornea, swelling of the eyelids, or irritation of the conjunctiva. It is contracted when a person unknowingly has the herpes virus on their fingers and reach up to wipe their eyes.

Other versions of the virus are less common, and are transmitted in a variety of ways. They can vary in severity and location. Only in the rarest cases, such as in encephalitis, can a life-threatening condition occur. Encephalitis attacks the central nervous system.

Can Herpes Simplex be Prevented?

There are no known cures for Herpes Simplex, nor is there an absolute preventative medication. There are certain precautions to minimize the risk of infection. The number one way to prevent the spread of Herpes is to wash your hands regularly. If you have any cold sores or fever blisters on your lips, refrain from kissing anyone, as doing so may infect them with the virus. Always use safe sex practices, such as through the use of a condom, with every sexual partner and in every form of sexual contact.

• Herpesdiagnosis.com
• Nih.gov
• STD-gov.org

• Acyclovir
• Genital Herpes Prevention
• Genital Herpes
• Genital Herpes Treatments
• Herpes of the Eye
• Herpes Simplex
• Herpes Symptoms
• Herpes
• STD's in General
• Zovirax