Herpes are caused by a herpes simplex virus infection, either type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2), and early signs and symptoms depend on the location of the initial infection and the type of viral infection. Side effects of the herpes virus are not generally life-threatening, although the condition does demand lifestyle changes. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control estimates that over 400,000 people sought medical assistance for genital herpes infections in 2007.
Definition
Herpes is the common name for a highly infectious disease of the herpes virus family. Chickenpox and shingles (typically an adult disease) are all members of this family, called Herpes zoster. The virus is passed via contact with an infected person. Infection may come from a person with an active outbreak of the virus, or the carrier may not show any outward symptoms while still being able to infect others with the virus, according to the Mayo Clinic. Confirmation of the herpes infection must be sought during an active outbreak. The test uses a cotton swab that is laboratory-tested--either by a virus culture or through blood antigen identification--to confirm presence of the disease.
Genital Herpes
The HSV-2 virus causes genital herpes, although the HSV-1 virus may also infect the genital area during oral sex practices, according to the Mayo Clinic. Early signs include rashes and small blisters, eventually to become filled with fluid, that open up to expose ulcerated sores. Early symptoms include headache, slight fever and swelling of the lymph nodes in the genital area, under the arms and in the neck.
Facial Herpes
HSV-1 causes small cold sores on the face and lips and inside the mouth. The liquid in the sores then spreads the disease by direct contact. The sores reappear, usually in the same location, when the area is exposed to the sun, during high fever or when the body experiences stress. The National Eye Institute reports that the virus may be transferred to the eyes, causing a condition called conjunctivitis. This condition first appears as redness in the whites of the eyes.
Chickenpox and Shingles
Chickenpox in children and shingles in adults are caused by varicella zoster, a member of the herpes family of viruses. Both diseases first appear as a rash, accompanied by itching. Small red blisters then develop on the neck, rib cage area or the lower body. Chickenpox is caused by exposure to an infected child, while adult shingle infections are related to stress, a decline in the body's immune system and, occasionally, as a side effect of prescription corticosteroid drug use, according to the National Eye Institute.
