HSV-2 is a virus that causes genital herpes, otherwise known as the type-2 herpes simplex virus. In addition, there is a type-1 herpes simplex virus called HSV-1. Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that HSV-2 is found more often in women; it's found in about one in five women between age 14 and 49. This virus is found in about one in nine men between the ages of 14 to 49.
Causes of HSV-2
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention states that both HSV-1 and HSV-2 are found and released from the sores that the viruses cause. The viruses can also be released between outbreaks from areas of skin where there appears to be no sore. Therefore, an infected person can unknowingly pass the virus to another sexual partner. Those who suffer from HSV-1 experience fewer outbreaks than those who suffer with the HSV-2 virus.
Symptoms
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention mention that those people afflicted with the HSV-2 virus may not know of their condition. Nevertheless, the first outbreak can be quite noticeable, and usually occurs within two weeks after the virus is received. Genital herpes sores usually heal within two to four weeks. Other symptoms include flu-like symptoms, an additional round of sores, fever and swollen glands. Once the first outbreak is noticed, the sufferers can expect to see several outbreaks within a year -- typically four to five episodes. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that these recurrences will decrease in frequency over time. Health care providers will typically diagnose visually when an outbreak occurs, or the doctor may order a blood test done.
Medical Treatments
As of March 2011, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that there is no cure for herpes/ the HSV-2 virus. However, your doctor may recommend an antiviral medication that can shorten or prevent outbreaks. Daily suppressive therapy for recurring herpes can reduce transmission to sexual partners.
L-Lysine and L-Lysine Therapy
New research is being done to expand options for sufferers of herpes. As of March 2011, the latest trend is to treat herpes with L-Lysine therapy. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that L-Lysine is an important amino acid that helps the body absorb calcium and assists in the formation of collagen.
A study in "Dermatologica" showed that L-Lysine appeared to be effective in reducing the occurrence, severity and healing time of recurrent HSV infections. Researchers are still working on why exactly this worked and how this can be used in current situations. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that it is still unknown if this therapy can be used regularly.
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