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What kind of herpes infection is cause by HSV – 1?

An infection caused by the herpes simplex virus – 1 leads to oral herpes. According to statistics, this is one of the most common STDs in the United States, affecting about 50 percent of the adult population. Herpes is known to be an asymptomatic condition that barely shows any symptoms. This is exactly why people tend to spread herpes unknowingly.

Incubation Period

The time between contact of the virus and the appearance of the initial symptoms in case of the HSV – 1 virus usually ranges between 2 and 12 days. However, HSV is a kind of virus that may not show any symptoms for several months.

Duration of illness

The herpes simplex virus usually shows its presence in the body in the form of outbreaks that last two or three weeks, and differ from one individual to another. The symptoms are accompanied with fever, tiredness, muscle ache and irritability.

Infected individuals may also experience a burning sensation, tingling, or itching prior to the appearance of sores and blisters. These clusters of painful blisters ooze with a yellow fluid that later develops into a yellowish crust.

Another symptom associated with the HSV – 1 are oral sores. These occur at the onset of the virus and can make drinking or eating very difficult. The sores may occur on lips, gums, and throat or on sides of the cheeks. You may experience swollen gums that may bleed too.

Getting diagnosed with HSV – 1

Based on the information provided, the healthcare provider would suggest a physical examination. HSV – 1 is associated with a characteristic appearance that leaves little doubt about the diagnosis. It is this appearance that helps in distinguishing oral herpes from oral thrush, gonorrhea and syphilis, among others. The doctor may conduct any one of the below mentioned testes:

·A tissue or liquid sample from the sores to identify the variant of herpes.
·A viral culture analysis.
·Antigen and antibody studies. A PCR test that can be employed to differentiate between HSV – 1 and HSV – 2.

Risk Factors

Everyone is at the risk of contracting herpes. Unfortunately, a lot of children aged 6 months to 3 years are at the risk of coming in contact with the herpes simplex virus simply by coming in contact with humans. As a result, 60 percent of individuals in the age bracket of 14 – 49 end up carrying the herpes virus.

Treatment

It is worth mentioning that there is no cure for herpes. A topical anesthetic such as Dilocaine and Nervocaine can be effective in reliving the pain caused as a result of symptoms of the virus. People with a weakened immune system are advised to take oral or IV medication.

How to stay safe when dating someone with oral herpes?

Oral herpes is one of the most common STIs in the United States, affective over 50 percent of the adult population. The condition caused due to the herpes simplex virus currently has no cure but you do have antiviral drugs that would help you deal with its symptoms. Given the fact that herpes affects more than half the number of adults in the United States of America alone, it is likely that either you or your partner is already affected with herpes.

In case you’ve recently discovered about your partner’s diagnosis and wondering as to what your next step should be, this article should be of great help.

Understand the condition

While most people think that STIs have a greater physical impact, in reality they tear a person emotionally. It is essential that you understand what your partner has been through in the past and make every possible effort to help him overcome the trauma. There are chances your partner might still not be able to accept the fact that he’s in a relationship and someone accepted him the way he is. Learn more about the condition and make sure you lend support.

Take every possible precaution

Unlike other sexually transmitted diseases that transmit through exchange of body fluids, herpes can be spread through direct physical contact with the infected part of the body. For instance, if your partner has blisters on the lips, kissing him would make you vulnerable to getting infected. Get acquainted with the symptoms associated with herpes and what happens in the event of an outbreak. Equip yourself with all the critical resources that would help you keep herpes at bay.

Don’t shy away from using contraceptives

A lot of people feel that the use of condoms and diaphragms reduce the pleasure of sex. It is worth mentioning that this is a worthy trade off as it reduces the risk of coming in contact with the herpes simplex virus. Regardless of what your partner feels about it, insist on using condoms. In addition, people with herpes are also advised to take antiviral drugs in order to diminish the chances of transmitting the virus. However, it is recommended you consult your healthcare provider to learn the requisite dosage that would keep you safe.

There is nothing wrong in dating someone with herpes, provided you are equipped with all the critical information that would keep you safe. Although medical experts advise people with herpes to date individuals having the same variant of the virus, in some case this isn’t possible. There are chances when you’re dating someone and get to know that he’s affected with herpes. Leaving someone high and dry when you’re already in love with him seems to be bad idea.

Also read: Life and dating tips for young girls living with HSV – 1