Herpes infections
Herpes infections are widespread skin diseases caused by herpes viruses. Typical for this group of diseases is the increased sensitivity in the affected area, with the appearance of a number of blisters filled with clear liquid, which are gradually cracked and covered with crust.
It is believed that more than 80% of people are infected with herpes virus. However, a smaller percentage of them have an outbreak because a person may be infected and never have any complaints.
What is herpes on the lips?
The popular name of herpes is “stress”. The first symptoms are burning, irritation and itching of parts of the mouth, after which a lot of bubbles filled with liquid appear.
It is transmitted through contact with an infected person, and it is not necessary at this time for the carrier to have herpes. Once in the body, the herpes virus cannot be healed completely, the person remains its carrier.
Typical of herpes is the recurrence in one and the same area in the event of weakened immune system, stress, overwork, prolonged exposure to sun, etc.
What is shingles (herpes zoster)?
Shingles are caused by a virus identical to that of the chickenpox in children. Primary infection with the virus occurs in infancy, often between 2 and 10 years of age, during which a rash occurs throughout the body, characteristic of measles. After healing, immunity is built, but the virus remains in the body.
When the immune system drops, the virus is re-activated and a rash occurs usually on one side of the body, most often along the ribs, on the neck or on the face. Complaints may range from minor mild itching to extremely severe pain in the affected area of the skin.
Usually, after pulling through shingles, there is no second episode of development of the disease.
What is genital herpes?
Genital herpes is one of the most common viral sexually transmitted infections in humans in recent decades. Over 40-50% of sexually active people are infected with genital herpes virus but not all have manifestation of the disease. Frequency of infection is directly related to sexual activity and affects women more often than men.
Symptoms include numbness, pain, and the appearance of small bubbles on a red base near the site of penetration of the virus, for example the area of the genital organs, the buttocks or thighs.
In most people, the virus can be activated several times a year.
How to treat herpes infections?
Most effective in the treatment of herpes infections are anti-viral drugs that suppress enzymes involved in the propagation of viral particles. These medicines can be applied topically (by applying on the affected area) or systemically (oral tablets), depending on the severity of the symptoms, the affected area and the age of the patient.