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Genital Herpes: Is there a Cure?

Posted April 15th, 2004 by jack
in

No, there is no cure for Genital Herpes. Genital Herpes is caused by the
Herpes Simplex 1 or 2 virus, but mostly the
latter. HSV1 mostly causes Oral Herpes -
cold sores.

Herpes Simplex (HSV) is a virus, and most viruses can't be cured.
However, you can treat the symptoms with considerable effect using antiviral
medications such as:

All three will reduce pain, discomfort and length of outbreak.
Famciclovir as well as Valacyclovir may also reduce the number of
outbreaks and in some cases even eliminate them if used correctly.
All three are available as prescription drugs. You should see a doctor
if you suspect that you have Genital Herpes to get diagnosed as well as advice
and a prescription for a suitable treatment.

Unfortunately it is relatively easy to catch Genital Herpes, mostly
because many carry the virus without knowing it. It can be years till
you have an outbreak. The virus is sexually transmittable, which includes oral
sex.

Genital Herpes: Prevention and Precaution

If you have Genital Herpes, you should take precaution not to pass it to others.
The first step is to avoid engaging in sexual activity when you have
an outbreak as this is when the virus is most contagious. You should
also:

  • Inform your partner
  • Use condoms
  • When you have an outbreak you
    should wash your hands regularly
  • Avoid touching the infected
    area
  • Taking antiviral treatment will also reduce the virus' ability to
    spread

But most importantly of all: Remember that you can never completely eliminate
the risk of spreading the virus.

Avoiding Genital Herpes Outbreaks

It is important
to understand how easy it is to catch and spread herpes, but at the same
time there are rarely any serious implications involved. You can't cure
Herpes, but you can keep the outbreak at a minimum.

Viruses thrive when your immune defense system is not at its best,
therefore you are more likely to get an outbreak of Genital Herpes
if you are:

  • Tired
  • Stressed
  • Suffering from another illness

You should lead a healthy lifestyle to avoid outbreaks, eat better, exercise, get the sleep you need and try to avoid
stressful situations. This is probably easier said than done, but
decide with yourself what your priorities are. There are plenty
of support groups, counseling and general help to be had but START BY SEEING
A DOCTOR!

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