Herpes simplex virus includes two types of viruses and the herpes 2 type results in genital herpes. The HSV- 2 virus can be transmitted by sexual contact. This infection can result in painful sores in the genital areas. The herpes 2 virus cannot be cured even though treatment can help in managing the symptoms.

The symptoms associated with the herpes 2 virus may appear from time to time and when the symptoms are not completely present the virus may be lying latent within the nerve cells. This virus may be activated by illness or stress. The virus is more contagious particularly in the active periods. The transmission can take place even in the absence of any active lesions.

The herpes 2 virus is present in latent condition in the nerve cells located in the region called sacral ganglion which is located at a person’s spine at the base. From this region the virus affects the genital areas during outbreaks. The HSV-2 virus has affected as many as 40 million people in United States.

The herpes 2 virus can also be transferred by an infected woman who is pregnant to her baby. For this reason women who are pregnant may be required to get a caesarean section. The symptoms of genital herpes which is caused by the HSV-2 virus are noticed in around 2 to 20 days after exposure to the infection. These symptoms can last for a number of weeks.

In herpes the first outbreak is normally the worst and the symptoms include blisters that are painful and these itch a great deal. These blisters are filled with a clear or cloudy liquid and in women vaginal discharge may also be observed. Such blisters are observed in areas near the genitals as well as the rectum. Some other symptoms accompanying such outbreaks include muscle aches, fatigue, fever and headache. Pain during urination along with swelling in the lymph glands may be experienced.

The blisters in herpes 2 usually disappear in a period of around 2 to 10 days in the absence of treatment. The outbreak of the virus may be caused following physical or emotional stress, illness and menstruation. In many cases patients are capable of noticing any warning signs that may accompany the outbreaks.

Detection of this virus is done through a viral culture of the fluid taken from the lesion. Many people suffering from genital herpes tend to experience around 5 to 8 outbreaks every year. With time the outbreaks and the symptoms may decrease. Treatment for the herpes 2 virus includes taking antiviral drugs like Valaclovir, Acyclovir and Famcyclovir. Suppressive therapy which is long term therapy is used when patients experience recurrent outbreaks.

It is also advisable for patients who have herpes 2 virus to wear loose clothes and avoid excessive sun exposure. Cool cloth can also be placed on the infected area and it is also important to keep the sores dry and clean. It is important that direct contact with the sore areas is completely avoided. The treatment for this condition should be started when individuals feel any kind of burning, tingling or itching.