Herpies is a problematic viral disease that is transmitted by way of direct contact with the infected area and also by sexual intercourse. This viral disease is caused due to the herpiess simplex virus. A person infected with this virus has to live with it for the rest of his life as the virus stays in the nerve cells within the body. So people with this virus experience the symptoms associated with this disease from time to time.

There are two kinds of herpies simplex virus and these include the HSV type 1 virus and the HSV type 2 virus. The HSV type 1 virus causes cold sores in the lip and mouth regions and these are also called fever blisters. The HSV type 2 virus causes lesions in the areas around the vagina or penis along with the anal opening and the thighs and buttocks.

The herpies simplex type 1 and 2 virus looks similar when studied under a microscope. Herpies is contracted by direct skin contact with the affected area or through sexual intercourse with an infected person. In some cases of herpies outbreak there may be no visible signs and symptoms. The symptoms may also be different in different cases. When a person is first infected with this condition the associated symptoms appear in a time period of 2 to 10 days. The first outbreak symptoms may last for around 2 to 3 weeks.

The genital herpies symptoms include itching or burning in the genital areas along with pain in legs, genital areas and buttocks. Patients may also experience vaginal or penile discharge along with abdominal pressure. The other symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, headache, and pain during urination, and swollen lymph nodes particularly in the groin regions.

Herpies can be transferred even between outbreaks in the absence of symptoms associated with this condition. Such a transfer is called asymptomatic transmission. In many cases transfer of this infection occurs from individuals who are not aware that they are infected with this virus. This virus never completely dies and often remains dormant in the nerves waiting for the right stimulation and opportunity to become active.

The initial herpies outbreak is more severe than the recurrences. A recurrence can be caused due to physical or emotional stress, menstruation and a compromised immune system. In the event of an outbreak it is advisable to avoid touching the affected areas. Diagnosis of this condition is done by physical examination along with a blood test.

A pregnant woman with genital herpies can pass on the infection to the child. For this reason in some cases caesarean section may be required. Treatment for herpies infection includes taking some antiviral medication such as acyclovir, valaclovir and famcyclovir. Those who have frequent outbreaks may need to take the antiviral medication on regular basis to control the symptoms. Medication also helps in reducing the number of outbreaks.

People suffering from herpies should also wear loose clothing and avoid excessive exposure to sunlight. The affected area should also be kept clean and cool cloth can be placed on the sores to get some relief. It is advisable to avoid touching the sores and patients should also wash hands after touching the affected areas. It is also advisable for infected individuals to use condom during sexual intercourse so as to protect other individuals from this infection.