Herpes is one of the most common human diseases, the causative agent of which is the herpes simplex virus. Worldwide, 90% of the population is infected with this type of virus.
The peculiarity of the herpes simplex virus is that it can be hidden in the body for a long time and does not manifest itself in any way. Herpes begins to actively recur when the immune system of a person is weakened. That’s when the characteristic symptoms appear – small painful bubbles. Most often herpes affects the skin, eyes and external genitals.
Types of herpes simplex virus (HSV)
There are two types of herpes simplex virus, HSV-1 and HSV-2:
- HSV-1 most commonly causes herpes on the lips and oral mucosa, but can also cause genital herpes through oral-genital contact.
- HSV-2 is the primary causative agent of genital herpes, but can also cause herpes on the lips in cases of cross-infection.
How herpes occurs
The source of infection is a sick person in whom the virus is present on the epithelium of mucous membranes. In contact with a partner, the virus passes through the epithelium of the partner’s mucous membranes and through damaged skin.
Pathways of transmission:
- Sexual;
- Hematogenous;
- Airborne;
- Household contact (through toys, household items, clothing).
Factors of virus transmission are: saliva, blood, tear fluid, semen, vaginal and cervical secretions, various organs and tissues used in transplants, urine, medical instruments.
The virus enters the body through damaged areas of the skin and mucosa, then, in the place of introduction of the virus there is a multiplication of viral particles.
According to the localization is affected:
- Skin – herpes simplex, eczema herpetiformis;
- Oropharyngeal mucous membranes – stomatitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis;
- Upper respiratory tract – acute respiratory disease;
- Eyes – keratoconjunctivitis;
- Urogenital tract – urethritis, cystitis, vulvovaginitis;
- Nervous system – meningitis, encephalitis, meningoencephalitis;
- Internal organs – hepatitis, glomerulonephritis, pneumonia.
Some of the most common factors that can trigger a herpes recurrence include:
- hypothermia;
- colds and other viral or bacterial infections;
- fatigue;
- stress;
- trauma;
- menstruation;
- “rigid” diets, hypovitaminosis and exhaustion;
- excessive sunbathing.
Leaflet for the disease
It should be remembered that when rashes appear, a person becomes acutely contagious. Moreover, not only others can be affected, but also the sick person himself. For example, from the focus on the lips with dirty hands, the herpes virus can be carried into the eyes or genitals.
Therefore, it is important to observe the following rules:
- Do not touch the lips affected by rashes. If you touch them, wash your hands thoroughly.
- Use a personal towel and utensils.
- If you have affected lips, do not squeeze out the blisters or tear off the crusts. This can cause additional infection of the skin.
- Refrain from kissing and oral-genital contact.
- If you wear contact lenses, do not wet them with saliva to moisturize them.
- Apply antiviral cream to your lips with cosmetic sticks rather than your fingers.
- Do not use someone else’s cosmetics and giving someone your own is strictly forbidden. It is not recommended to use testers in the store before buying.
Treatment of herpes
- Drug treatment
- Antiviral drugs in tablets, ointments or injections are the basis of therapy. They reduce the multiplication of the virus, speed up recovery and reduce the frequency of recurrences. However, they do not cure the virus, but only control its activity.
- Topical agents (ointment or cream) help with herpes on the skin and mucous membranes, accelerating healing and reducing inflammation. They are applied to the affected areas several times a day.
- Immunostimulants and interferons
For immunocompromised people, interferons and immunostimulants may be prescribed to boost the body’s immune response. These help control the virus, but their prescription requires a doctor’s advice.
- Additional measures
- Painkillers can help with pain and discomfort, and moisturizing creams can prevent dryness and cracking.
- It is important to take good care of the skin by avoiding trauma to the affected areas and following personal hygiene recommendations.
Strengthening immunity
Prevention must necessarily be aimed at strengthening the immune system, because if it is weakened, the disease is sure to make itself known again. Overwork, poor nutrition, bad habits – all this can become a repeated cause of the development of herpes. That is why it is important to avoid such situations.
Pay attention to the work of your gastrointestinal tract, because all immune processes originate from here. Weakening the immune system can weaken with prolonged use of medications, especially antibiotics. If possible, they should be replaced by other means. The main method to improve immunity is proper nutrition. Therefore, if herpes constantly appears on your lips, you should pay attention to your diet.
Conclusion
Herpes is a widespread viral disease that can remain hidden in the body for a long time, becoming active when the immune system is weakened. Despite the fact that the virus can not be completely cured, modern methods of treatment and prevention can effectively control its manifestations, accelerate recovery and reduce the frequency of recurrences. The most important aspects in the treatment of herpes are antiviral drugs, strengthening immunity and hygiene.
In addition to medication, attention should be paid to maintaining good health, avoiding stress, proper nutrition and avoiding bad habits. If herpes occurs frequently or in severe forms, it is important to consult a doctor for comprehensive care and advice on maintaining the immune system. Proper self-care and timely prevention will help minimize the risk of recurrence and improve the quality of life.
