What is genital herpes?

Herpes, which has many strains, is an unbelievably contagious disease, in the form of a virus in the bloodstream, which is spread from one person to another. The virus that causes your first herpes outbreak stays in your body forever and will flare up from time to time. Herpes can affect the mouth or the genitals, but both have similar symptoms. There are two versions of herpes, namely HSV-1 and HSV-2. The HSV-1 form of the virus usually manifests itself as a sore or blister around the mouth. HSV-2 is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that is passed to the genitals during skin-on-skin contact. Genital herpes is manifested by blisters or sores on the genitals as well as the anal area. This manifestation can also flare up periodically, and even when blisters and sores have healed, it is still extremely contagious.

Common genital herpes symptoms

In some cases, people may not show any symptoms of a genital herpes outbreak, or the symptoms may not be very severe. Usually the first sign that you may be having a herpes flare-up is itching or pain, especially in the genital area. 

• There may be sores or blisters, which can lead to constant itching, tingling or burning in the affected areas. 
  
• Appearance of red areas and small blisters that break open and lead to painful sores in the genital areas, including the tops of the thighs, buttocks, and rectum.
  
• Females may experience burning when urinating over open sores.

Getting rid of the itch is often a priority for those experiencing a genital herpes flare-up. Herpes itching can be a serious problem, and there is a danger of infection when you scratch. It is also advisable to avoid sexual intercourse during a flare-up of severe itchiness. 

Here are some helpful ways to deal with the itch:

• Avoid scratching, as you may irritate the sores and blisters. Wear loose clothing over genital herpes to prevent irritation on the blisters.
  
• Clean open sores gently with warm water and a mild solution of Epsom salts. All sores depend on acid to flourish, and as Epsom salts is alkaline, it helps to reduce the acidity. Dab as you clean - don’t rub as this might simply spread the virus around.
  
• A topical ointment, such as zinc oxide (baby nappy cream works well), which is alkaline and anti-bacterial, is recommended to soothe the itchy areas.
  
• The herpes virus generally flares up when your immune system is compromised by fighting an infection, or colds and flu. Keep your immune system in condition by maintaining a healthy diet with plenty of fruit and veggies. 
• Visit the doctor for prescription meds available to treat herpes. These meds are usually used at the onset of a flare-up to relieve symptoms such as chronic itching. 

Note that using a condom during a sexual encounter will help to cut down genital infections. Also ask your doctor for a blood test to see if you have a potential for herpes flare-ups if your immunity level drops. Stick to a healthy diet and lifestyle - and a herpes virus will stay dormant!

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