The herpes simplex virus causes herpes. There are two different types of the virus, type 1 and type 2. Outbreaks affect the oral and genital areas, depending on what type of virus is transmitted. Some people may suffer no symptoms upon transmission, while others have severe outbreaks. The virus may lie dormant for years before an outbreak occurs, making it difficult to pinpoint the cause of infection. Though no cure exists for herpes, a variety of basic treatments are available to decrease the outbreaks and symptoms of the condition.
Oral Herpes
Oral herpes, commonly referred to as fever blisters or cold sores, is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1. Nearly all Americans suffer from cold sores by the time they reach age 20, according to MedlinePlus. Cold sores often occur on the outer lips, chin, cheeks and nostrils. The fluid filled blisters generally do not last longer than one to two weeks without treatment. Treatment is not necessary and will only slightly decrease the duration of the cold sore or decrease pain. Treatment may include oral medications commonly used for genital herpes, such as acyclovir or famciclovir. However, these medications must be started before the cold sore develops---during the prodrome stage. Numbing agents including topical lidocaine and benzocaine. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help reduce pain. Home remedies include applying ice chips or warm compresses to the cold sore.
Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that enters the skin through broken skin or mucous membranes, reports MayoClinic.com. Sores become visible in the vagina, around the penis or rectum within two to 20 days of infection, reports the American Academy of Dermatology. Treatment includes oral medications such as acyclovir and famciclovir treat both active outbreaks and repress the virus. Repressive therapy is suggested to patients who suffer from five or more herpes outbreaks a year, according to MayoClinic.com. Herpes simplex virus type 2 causes the STD and there is no cure. Nearly 20 percent of all sexually active Americans are infected with the virus, according to the American Academy of Dermatology.
Prevention
The transmission of oral herpes may be prevented by practicing frequent hand washing. Patients suffering from a cold sore outbreak should avoid kissing or close contact with others until the cold sore heals. Items such as lip gloss, glasses and utensils should not be shared to when someone is suffering from an oral herpes outbreak. The transmission of genital herpes is prevented by partners using a condom during intercourse. Limiting the number of sexual partners also puts a person at less risk of coming in contact with the herpes virus. Patients should not participate in sexual intercourse when a partner is suffering from a herpes outbreak.
