Herpes is a virus affecting different areas of the body, depending on the type of virus. The three types of herpes are herpes simplex type one, herpes simplex type two and herpes zoster. All types are incurable, but they may live dormant in the body, without causing active outbreaks. Herpes simplex one is related to oral herpes, or cold sores. Genital herpes is considered type two. Herpes zoster is related to the chicken pox virus and generally affects adults over the age of 60. Each type of herpes has different symptoms, body reactions and effects that occur during an active outbreak.
Herpes Simplex Type One
Cold sores, often called fever blisters, are caused by the herpes simplex virus type one. Infants to elderly adults can experience cold sores. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 90 percent of the population will suffer from oral herpes once in their lifetime. Sores generally appear on the mouth, lips and nose. The cold sore will last from 10 to 14 days and usually resolves itself. The greatest risk of transmission from person to person is when the blisters are new and have not dried out. The infection can travel to the eye and cause infection of the cornea--immediate attention is necessary to avoid complications leading to blindness. The Mayo Clinic states the leading cause of blindness is due to a herpes simplex infection in the eye. People with compromised immune systems, including those diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, cancer or other conditions, are at a greater risk for more severe infections.
Herpes Simplex Type Two
Herpes simplex type two, or genital herpes, is considered a sexually transmitted disease. Because the virus never leaves the body and is recurring, the stigma of being diagnosed with herpes can be emotionally traumatizing. Joining a support group, educating yourself and talking to sexual partners may assist with coping. General symptoms include itching, red bumps and ulcers, which may ooze pus or blood. During an outbreak, the virus is physically noticeable around a woman's vaginal opening, inside the vagina and on the cervix. Men will find the infection present on their penis, scrotum, inside the urethra and around the rectal area. Pain, tenderness and difficulty urinating are common. The initial outbreak may include flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache and fatigue. Complications in women include urinary retention, while men may suffer from proctitis, explains the Mayo Clinic. Genital herpes can spread to newborns as they travel through the birth canal during delivery.
Herpes Zoster
Herpes zoster, or shingles, is a condition that appears as a painful rash on the body. The rash is often seen on the back and on one side of the body, from the chest to the collar bone. Symptoms include pain, burning, tingling sensations, red rash, fluid-filled blisters and itching. Some people may experience flu-like symptoms, such as headache, fever and fatigue. Postherpetic neuralgia is a complication of shingles. Nerve fibers are damaged and send confused signals to the brain, indicating pain is present. Treatment includes pain medications, anticonvulsants and antidepressants. Shingles may affect the eyes, known as ophthalmic shingles. Vision loss can occur. The Mayo Clinic reports that a variety of neurological problems may also occur, including encephalitis, facial paralysis and hearing and balance problems. Because of the high levels of pain associated with shingles, the Mayo Clinic recommends relaxation techniques. Deep breathing exercises, tai chi, reading a book or yoga may be beneficial.
