Herpes and frequency therapy

Definition:

Herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types of herpes viruses: HSV-1, which mainly causes oral herpes infections, and HSV-2, which is mainly responsible for genital herpes infections. However, both types of virus can cause both oral and genital infections.

Types of herpes:

Oral herpes (herpes labialis):
Caused by HSV-1, leads to cold sores or cold sores that form around the mouth and lips.
Genital herpes:
Caused by HSV-2, leads to painful blisters and ulcers in the genital area.
Herpes zoster (shingles):
Caused by the varicella zoster virus, which also causes chickenpox. It is not the same as HSV, but is often mentioned in connection with herpes.

Transmission:

Direct contact:
Herpes is transmitted by direct skin-to-skin contact with infected areas, even if there are no visible blisters.
Body fluids:
Transmission through saliva, genital secretions or infected skin.

Symptoms:

Symptoms vary depending on the site of infection and may include:

Itching or tingling at the site of infection
Painful burning and blistering
Ulcers that crust over and heal
Fever and general malaise in first infections
Recurrent outbreaks that can be triggered by stress, illness or sun exposure

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis is made by clinical examination of the symptoms. Laboratory tests such as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) or virus isolation from vesicle fluid can be used to confirm the infection.

Treatment:

Antiviral drugs:
Acyclovir, valacyclovir and famciclovir can reduce the severity and duration of outbreaks and reduce the frequency of recurrences.
Symptomatic treatment:
Painkillers and topical creams to relieve discomfort.

Prevention:

Avoid direct contact with infected areas during an outbreak.
Use of condoms can reduce the risk of transmission of genital herpes, but does not offer complete protection.
Antiviral prophylaxis for frequent outbreaks.

worth knowing:

Herpes is a lifelong infection, as the virus remains in the nerve cells and can be reactivated.
Many people with herpes are asymptomatic and do not realise they are infected.

Research:

Research on herpes is focused on developing vaccines, improving antiviral therapies and understanding the mechanisms that lead to reactivation of the virus.