You might have had a cold sore or a genital herpes infection which is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) and wondered what caused it. The herpes simplex virus (HSV) type I and II caused them respectively.
The herpes simplex virus is highly contagious. Once it gets into your body, you may feel itchy or a burning sensation around the area where it entered through. It could remain in your body for 2 to 20 days. It then appears on your skin as a blister. This affects the facial area. Could be your lips, or any part of the face.
The liquid in the blister bursts leaving a painful ulcer. This heals within 14 days leaving no scars. There is no known cure for cold sores. However, you can consult your doctor who can advise you on the best ointment to use.
The herpes simplex virus lays latent in your body and could recur months or even years later. The herpes simplex virus is usually triggered by;
- Exposure to sunlight
- Emotional stress
- Fatigue
- Menstruation period
- Diet rich in chocolate, peanuts, cashew nuts,coffee and strawberries
Genital herpes which is caused by herpes simplex virus type II is also highly contagious. This is a sexually transmitted disease (STD). Use of latex condoms during sexual intercourse may reduce the risk of transmitting it.
It is however not a guaranteed method as the area around the genital area may be infected and a condom cannot cover everywhere.
It is advisable to abstain from sex until you are completely healed. Oral sex can also transmit genital herpes to cold sore and vice versa.
Anyone and everyone can get the herpes simplex virus and it is advisable to take care of oneself.
Mercy Maranga
Author Bio
Mercy Maranga Reports on Health and Fitness issues. Visit Her Site here for more information on cold sores and its management HERPES
