Herpes is a word that evokes a lot of fear and apprehension in the minds of people. However not many people are aware of what is herpes. Herpes is basically a viral infection that is transferred to people through direct skin contact with the infected area and through sexual intercourse as well. Herpes is basically marked by eruption of clusters of blisters though in some people the symptoms may not be present.

The herpes virus includes the herpes simplex type 1 and type 2 viruses. What is herpes and how the two strains differ can be better understood from the fact that the type 1 strain causes oral herpes while the type 2 strain causes genital herpes. Oral herpes is marked by eruption of blisters in the mouth, lips and facial regions. The type 2 herpes strain causes genital herpes and is marked by the eruption of blisters in the genital regions.

The lesions in this condition are also often accompanied by other problems like swelling in the lymph nodes, pain in the buttocks and thighs and pain during urination. In some cases vaginal or penile discharge may also be observed. What is herpes and how to handle this infection can be learnt by obtaining complete information about this condition.

People who are not well informed on what is herpes also need to understand how this infection can be managed. It is important that the affected area is kept clean and dry so as to facilitate faster healing. Likewise contact with the affected area should be avoided. It is also advisable to wash hands with soap water so as to prevent infection. People seeking information on what is herpes also need to realize that the infection cannot be completely cured. In herpes the virus tends to reside in certain nerve cells.

After a period of activity the virus remains dormant in the nerve cells and may be reactivated due to illness, stress and menstruation. This condition is more contagious when the blisters and other symptoms are present but it can be transmitted even when no active lesions are present.

Those seeking information on what is herpes need to learn about the way the symptoms manifest in this condition. To start with patients experience tingling and itching of skin and this is followed with appearance of red bumps on the skin. This is followed with eruption of blisters and the blisters may be filled with clear or cloudy fluid. After some time the blisters scab over and eventually heal.

Trying to understand what is herpes also means learning about the treatment options available. In cases of herpes the medicines that are taken as a part of the treatment plan include valacyclovir, famcyclovir and acyclovir. Those patients who get frequent outbreaks should take the medicines on a regular basis.

Patients suffering from this condition should preferably wear loose clothes and avoid exposure to sunlight. Likewise the affected areas should be kept dry and clean and patients should also avoid touching the sores. It is also advisable for patients to use precaution in the form of condoms while indulging in sexual activities.