Herpes is a problematic condition that causes blisters in the mouth and genital regions. This condition has no complete cure and the psychological effects of living with herpes require the patients to almost re-evaluate their entire lives. There is a great deal of hysteria and fear regarding this disease. For this reason most patients do not wish to admit that they have herpes.

Herpes is a viral infection and people infected with this condition have to live with it for the rest of their lives. This infection is transmitted by direct skin contact with the infected site or through sexual intercourse. Living with herpes is problematic because the symptoms associated with this condition may differ in different cases.

Most people living with herpes have to experience periods during which this virus is active. In this period they get blisters on their mouth and lips. In the case of genital herpes the blisters may be observed in their genital areas such as in the areas around the vulva, penis and the anus. These blisters contain a clear fluid and with time they crust over and heal.

Living with herpes can be problematic. Initially before an outbreak patients tend to experience itching and tingling of skin. While the virus cannot spread through air, direct contact can result in transmission. Transmission of this virus can occur even when the symptoms are not present. Because of this a lot of fear and apprehension exists in the mind of people regarding this illness.

Those living with herpes have to take care so as to ensure that this virus is not transmitted to others. So they have to avoid sexual contact when the virus is active. In fact sexual contact should be avoided even when prodormal signs are visible. Those suffering from herpes may find it extremely difficult to enjoy a healthy social life because of the apprehensions regarding this condition.

It is advisable for those living with herpes to reveal their condition to their partners before indulging in sexual activity. Likewise sexual activity without precaution should be completely avoided. Avoiding casual sex can greatly reduce the possibility of contracting this disease.

Living with this condition is also difficult because it has no complete cure. Patients have to take anti viral medication to manage the symptoms and to increase the time period between the outbreaks. Medication also ensures that the severity of the symptoms is largely reduced.

Some precautions that need to be taken by those living with herpes include avoiding sharing of cups, lipstick and cigarettes when cold sores are present. Likewise kissing children should also be avoided when cold sores are present. In case of genital herpes sharing bath towels should be avoided. Direct contact with the infected area should also be avoided.