Statistics reveal that approx 10% of the people in the world are affected by genital herpes. This is an STI that is normally contracted during sex. It affects the genitals or the pubic area. A large percentage of the people infected are usually unaware because the symptoms take time to show; even years in some cases. Learning how to recognize the symptoms and manage the condition facilitates rapid recovery.
What Are the Symptoms?
Some of the common symptoms include:
- Blisters that form painful ulcers on the genital area
- Skin cracks that may or may not itch
- Distinct rashes
- Inflammation
- Pain when urinating
- Headaches
- Joint pains
- Flu
When genital herpes infects a person, the symptoms are bound to recur. They’re normally triggered by several factors like:
- Sexual activity
- Menstruation
- Depression
- Medical conditions
- General illness
What is the Diagnosis & Treatment for Herpes?
If you suspect that you’re suffering from this disease, seek medical assistance immediately. Once at the hospital, the doctor will inspect the affected area. Blood tests can also performed at times for proper diagnosis.
[youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4V7rKp_ybp0″ width=”200″ height=”220″]Herpes is an incurable disease. Doctors only aim at reducing recurrences and alleviating the severity of the symptoms. Ways used to achieve this includes:
- Washing the affected area with salt water
- Placing ice packs to reduce inflammation
- Taking pain relievers
- Taking antiviral medication
What Are the Ways of Preventing Genital Herpes?
Since this disease is spread through skin contact, using a barrier is the best way of preventing it. Condoms offer 99.9% protection against herpes and all other STIs. In case you’re already infected, it’s advisable to lubricate the condom to eliminate friction, which triggers the symptoms. Bear in mind that the disease can occur with or without visible symptoms on the genital area.
Those suffering from frequent episodes should take antiviral medication every day to effectively manage the condition. Furthermore, they’ll also be able to protect their partners by reducing risk of infection.
What Should Pregnant Women DO?
In rare cases, a newborn can contract an STI during childbirth. Despite the fact that this is uncommon, it’s still advisable to consult your doctor in case you’re pregnant and infected with genital herpes. All necessary precautions will be taken for the child to be delivered safely when the midwife understands the risk involved.
What Should I Do When Infected?
The first time that you learn you’re infected will undoubtedly be stressful. However, try to remain calm so that you can manage the situation objectively. Conduct an independent research and gather all vital info on the disease. Then, visit a doctor and a psychologist.
In general, always remember that genital herpes is spread through sex. When the illness recurs, the pain will be less severe than it was initially. Treatment plans for herpes only serve to reduce the severity of the symptoms but not to offer a permanent cure. Pregnant women infected with the virus must discuss options available for safe delivery with their health providers.