Herpes is a virus caused by the Type 1 and Type 2 herpes simplex virus, or HSV. The herpes virus transfers from person to person through direct contact of bodily fluids with an infected individual. The virus causes an eruption of painful blisters in the area where the virus enters the body. Type 1 usually infects the area around the mouth, and the type 2 virus usually causes symptoms in the genital area. There is no cure for herpes, and outbreaks may occur during times of stress or illness. Serious complications and consequences may occur because of the herpes virus.
Newborn Infection
Infants born to mothers with an active herpes outbreak have an increased risk of developing a serious or deadly complication from the virus. Newborns exposed to the herpes virus through the birth canal may experience skin lesions, blindness, brain damage or death. Having a cesarean section may help decrease the possibility of contracting the virus during the birthing process.
Meningitis
Because herpes is a virus that always remains in the body, it may cause inflammation to the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This inflammation in the brain, called meningitis, may cause symptoms such as high fever and stiff neck. Although it is possible, getting meningitis from HSV is rare, according to MayoClinic.com. Medications and fluids help treat viral meningitis.
Internal Complications and Infections
Herpes can open an individual up for additional infections because of the strain on the immune system. People with already weakened immune systems may experience herpes sores that grow large and take several weeks to heal. The infection may also expand and cause sores in the esophagus and intestines, causing pain and infections, according to The Merck Manuals Online Medical Library Home Edition.
HIV
An individual with genital herpes has an increased risk of acquiring additional infections, especially sexually transmitted diseases, such as HIV. Individuals with HIV and herpes are more likely to spread HIV to other people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The sores on the genitals allow an area of entry and exit for the virus, which increases the risk of spreading HIV and contracting other diseases.
Herpes Simplex Keratitis
Herpes simplex virus Type 1 can enter the eye and infect the cornea by touching a sore on the mouth and then the eye, which transfers the virus to the eye. The virus in the eye causes an infection called herpes simplex keratitis. Symptoms of this condition may include a sore on the cornea, sensitivity to light, increased tear production and blurred vision. Even with treatment, the virus may flare up again. Without proper treatment, an individual with herpes simplex keratitis may require a corneal transplant.
Herpetic Whitlow
The herpes virus may enter the body through a cut on the finger. Dentists who do not wear gloves have an increased risk of developing this infection. The finger may form a herpetic whitlow, which is a reddened, swollen and painful area on the fingertip, after exposure to the virus.
Bladder and Bowel Problems
Individuals with the herpes virus may experience problems with the bowel or bladder. The bladder may retain urine, and the virus cause may inflammation in the rectum, according to MayoClinic.com.
