Genital herpes infection

Description of Genital herpes infection

 
Description
 
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by a herpes simplex virus (HSV). It can cause sores on your genital or rectal area, buttocks, and thighs.
 
Causes and Risk Factors
 
Common risk factors include:
1. Vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone who has the infection
2. Pregnant mothers can also infect their babies during childbirth
 
Signs and Symptoms
 
You may not know of the disease, as herpes at times does not have symptoms or very mild symptoms. Symptoms of herpes are called outbreaks. They include:
1. Sores (blisters) near the area where the virus has entered the body
2. Sores on the genital or rectal area, buttocks, and thighs
3. Itching or tingling around your genitals
4. Backache
5. Flu like symptoms including fever, swollen lymph nodes
6. Fatigue
7. Headache
 
Investigations
 
Your doctor may recommend you to get some screening tests done.
 
Treatment
 
1. There is no cure. However, medicines can help lessen symptoms, decrease outbreaks, and lower the risk of passing the virus to others. 
2. Effective use of latex condoms can reduce, but not eliminate the risk of catching or spreading herpes.
 
NIH: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases
Content Details
Last updated on:
05 Sep 2017 | 10:06 AM (IST)
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