Herpes: How to Prevent and Treat

Herpes is a benign disease caused by a virus. Typically, herpes virus 1 affects the mucosa of the mouth and the surroundings of the lips, and contagion is almost always by direct contact, but it can also occur by sharing objects such as cups, cups, cutlery and lipsticks, as usually The virus is found in the saliva of people who sometimes have no symptoms.

When lesions resulting from the disease appear on the genitals, the contagion will almost always be the result of sexual contact. In this case, herpes type 2 is considered a sexually transmitted disease (STD).

There is also a more serious type of disease, herpes zoster, caused by the same chickenpox virus, or chickenpox. The lesions are similar to those of herpes type 1, but reach a larger area and may also affect the internal organs.

In either case, the first infection produces primary herpes. From the second time the disease manifests, the form is always recurrent. Therefore, it is not a matter of reinfection, but activation of the virus that remained latent in the body. Activation of the virus can be triggered by various factors such as prolonged exposure to sunlight, fevers or even any physical or mental disorder.

Prevention

To prevent herpes simplex type 1, avoid direct contact with the infected person and do not share objects such as cups, cups, cutlery and lipsticks. For people who already have this kind of herpes, it is important to keep the mouth always hydrated and avoid the sun, even if there is no apparent injury, to prevent the appearance of lesions.

Since herpes simplex type 2, as it is considered an STD, can be avoided with the use of condoms in all sexual relations and herpes zoster can be prevented by vaccine. In all cases, the tip is to maintain good health of the immune system through regular exercise, healthy eating and stress management.

Treatment

Treatment is usually limited to preventing secondary complications and relieving symptoms, as no type of herpes can be cured. Various ointments and oral medication may alleviate itching and burning sensation. Also, the amino acid lysine? used in protein manufacturing and vital for the growth and maintenance of muscles and organs? prevents and treats herpes symptoms while also preventing recurrence.

What You Need to Know About Genital Herpes (March 2024)