What is Herpes simplex ?
It itches... It hurts...
Small, fluid-filled blisters caused by the herpes virus most commonly appear on the lips, but can also affect areas such as the nose, cheeks, and chin. The herpes simplex virus is one of the most common viral infections, and a significant portion of the world's population is infected with this virus.
The herpes virus can remain in the body in a latent state for a long time and may reactivate when the immune system is weakened, leading to recurring symptoms. In this article, we explain how herpes develops and what can be effective in managing it.
Herpes simplex: Overview
Once the herpes simplex virus enters the body, it can remain dormant in nerve tissue and be reactivated by certain triggers. As a result, individuals carrying the herpes virus may live with it for life and experience symptoms periodically.
The factors influencing its occurrence
The virus can remain in the body in active and dormant phases, causing blisters to recur in the same area several times a year. The factors influencing its occurrence are as follows:
- Skin trauma or excessive strain
- Weakening of the immune system
- Hormonal changes
- Stress and emotional tension
Types of herpes simplex
The herpes simplex virus is divided into two main types: HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 primarily causes herpes virus infections on the lips and facial area, while HSV-2 leads to herpes simplex infections in the genital area. Carriers of both types of the virus make up a large portion of the population.
Herpes labialis (HSV-1):
- It is cold sore (herpes labialis) and the most common form of herpes virus infection.
- Blisters primarily appear on the lips, but can also occur on the chin, cheeks, nose, and other areas.
Herpes genitalis (HSV-2):
It is a form of genital herpes that causes blisters on the genitals.
It is part of the group of sexually transmitted infections.
Currently, there is no effective vaccine available against the herpes virus. Treatment is focused solely on alleviating the symptoms.
How is the herpes virus transmitted?
The herpes simplex virus is highly contagious and can be transmitted from one person to another through various means. The risk of transmission is higher when the virus is in its active phase, that is, when blisters are present.
In most cases, HSV-1 infection occurs during childhood, between the ages of 1 and 5. The main modes of transmission are:
- Direct contact with saliva or fluid from blisters contaminated with the virus;
- Sharing items such as the same glass, fork, or towel;
- Rarely, through droplets spread by sneezing or coughing.
After entering the body, the virus travels along nerve endings to the nerve nodes of the spinal cord, where it remains in a dormant (latent) state. Following contact with individuals infected with the herpes virus, observing hygiene practices is important to prevent transmission.
Herpes Symptoms
The initial infection is usually more severe and distressing. In recurrent cases, symptoms tend to be milder. At first, a feeling of tension and itching occurs in the affected area. This is followed by painful, fluid-filled blisters. The fluid in these blisters is highly contagious. After the blisters rupture, a dried crust forms over the affected areas.
Complete healing usually takes 1–2 weeks. However, the virus remains in the body and can reactivate from time to time.
Differences between HSV-1 and HSV-2 symptoms
Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 types belong to the herpes simplex virus family but exhibit different symptoms. HSV-1 mainly affects the oral cavity and facial area, while HSV-2 is more commonly seen in genital herpes infections.
HSV-1:
The initial infection is called "Gingivostomatitis herpetic" (commonly known as "mouth sores").
It is mainly seen in children who come into contact with the virus for the first time.
It may be accompanied by severe mouth sores and bad breath.
Difficulty eating, fever, and general fatigue are often observed.
HSV-2:
The initial infection can be very distressing.
It may be accompanied by painful urination, fever, swollen lymph nodes, and general weakness.
Treatment of herpes
There is currently no complete cure for the Herpes simplex virus, but various antiviral medications are available to relieve symptoms and prevent its spread. Starting treatment promptly during the active phase of the virus can shorten the healing time and reduce the risk of transmission.
Ways to Prevent Infection
To prevent herpes virus infection, it is important to follow personal hygiene practices and a lifestyle that strengthens the immune system. To reduce the recurrence of Herpes simplex virus, managing stress, maintaining a balanced diet, and ensuring proper sleep are essential.
- Wash and disinfect hands thoroughly after touching blisters;
- Do not share personal items with others;
- Avoid sexual intercourse during genital herpes;
Is it possible to completely prevent herpes?
No, it is not possible to completely prevent herpes. However, avoiding certain risk factors can reduce the frequency of recurrences:
- Reducing stress;
- Getting enough sleep and eating right;
- Avoiding alcohol and tobacco;
- Using lip moisturizer in the winter and lip balm with UV filters in the summer;
Is herpes dangerous?
Although the herpes simplex virus is generally not dangerous, it can cause serious complications in some vulnerable groups. Therefore, it is important for individuals infected with the herpes virus to be cautious when in contact with others, especially pregnant women and infants.
Herpes during pregnancy
During pregnancy, the herpes virus can be passed to the baby through the placenta or through the birth canal during delivery. This can result in birth defects, brain damage, or even stillbirth.
In such cases, antiviral treatment before delivery and a cesarean section may be recommended.
After birth, to protect the baby from the disease:
If you have oral herpes:
- Avoid kissing and close contact with the baby;
- Wear a face mask;
- Follow strict hand hygiene;
- Do not touch the blisters;
- Do not share personal items;
- Temporarily avoid receiving visitors.
Risk of herpes in newborns
Herpes simplex virus can cause serious illnesses in newborns. Because a newborn’s immune system is weak, the infection spreads more rapidly and can affect vital organs such as the brain. Early diagnosis and intervention can help reduce these risks.
- In newborns, the herpes virus can damage internal organs, especially the brain.
- This can lead to severe neurological complications and a high risk of death.
- Infants younger than 2 weeks are especially at risk.
Breastfeeding during herpes
Although breastfeeding does not pose a direct risk of herpes virus transmission, precautions should be taken as Herpes simplex virus can be transmitted through blisters. Breast areas with active herpes virus should be protected and, if necessary, breastfeeding should be interrupted.
- If blisters are present on only one breast, it is possible to continue breastfeeding with the other healthy breast.
- The infected breast must be covered.
- If there is active herpes on both breasts, breastfeeding should be stopped, and expressed breast milk should not be given.