HerpesThe herpes simplex virus (HSV) causes blisters and sores around the mouth, nose, genitals and buttocks, but can appear almost anywhere on the skin or mucous membranes. These sores may be painful and unsightly. For chronically ill people and newborns, the infection can be serious, but rarely fatal. What are common symptoms of Herpes? Many infected individuals have few, if any, noticeable symptoms. Many patients are able to anticipate an outbreak when they notice a warning sign (a tingling sensation, called a prodrome) of the approaching illness. Symptoms vaguely similar to those of flu may accompany these outbreaks. Painful urination and swollen and tender lymph glands in the groin are also possible. The predominant symptom of herpes is the outbreak of painful, itching blisters filled with fluid on and around the external sexual organs or, for oral herpes, on or very near the lip. What triggers an outbreak of Herpes? Factors that can trigger an outbreak include stress, illness such as a cold, fever, fatigue, sunburn, menstruation or sexual intercourse. For our cosmetic patients who suffer from oral herpes and have a history of cold sores, anti-viral treatment is prescribed before or just following treatment to discourage any outbreak. Laser treatments, injecting dermal fillers, and chemical peeling are also examples of triggers. What are the treatment options for Herpes? Herpes can be treated but not cured. The medication that will attack the virus while it lies dormant in the nerve cells will also damage the nerve cells. Treatment is available for acute outbreaks, which are anti-viral drugs such as Acyclovir, Valaclovir or Famcyclovir. Topical antibiotic ointments also may be applied to prevent secondary bacterial infections. |
