Herpes is a problematic infection that is caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two kinds of herpes simplex viruses. It includes the HSV type 1 and the HSV type 2. The HSV type 1 virus causes cold sores also called fever blisters in the regions around the face and the mouth. The HSV 2 virus causes genital herpes and this results in blisters in the regions near the genitals, anal area and the buttocks as well.

Many people infected with the herpes simplex virus may not display any obvious symptoms. In other cases individuals may experience itchiness and this may be followed with blisters that become painful. These blisters contain a fluid and with time crust are formed over the blisters and they heal without any scarring.

In women the blisters may appear in clusters on the vulva and near the anus along with the buttocks and the thighs. In men the blisters may be observed on the shaft and glans area of the penis along with anus. Before the outbreak some other symptoms that may be experienced include pain during urination, swollen lymph glands, fever and muscle aches along with fatigue.

The herpes simplex virus causes multiple outbreaks in the year but these outbreaks and their severity reduces over time. When the virus is not active it lies in a dormant condition within the nerve cells and may be activated by stress, illness and menstruation. While the virus is contagious during the active period it can also be transmitted even if the lesions are absent.

Some complications involving herpes simplex virus include possible eye infections. Such an eye infection is called herpes keratitis. Pregnant women having genital herpes can pass on the infection to the child. For this reason preventive measures need to be taken. In some case caesarian section may be needed.

Treatment of the herpes simplex virus includes antiviral medicines such as acyclovir, famcyclovir and valacyclovir. Patients can better manage their symptoms with this treatment. The proper treatment can also reduce the severity of the outbreaks and reduce the number of outbreaks. Long term therapy is particularly helpful for patients who experience frequent and recurrent outbreaks.

Those experiencing a herpes simplex virus infection should wear loose clothing. It is also advisable for patients to keep the sores clean and avoid exposure to sunlight. Patients should also use cool cloth on the affected area and avoid touching the sores. Any person infected with this virus should avoid intimate contact with other individuals particularly when the sores are present. Condoms should be strictly used during sexual contact.