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Herpes Information

What is Herpes?

The human herpes virus (HHV) is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. It is estimated that over 50 million people in the USA are affected by the virus. Symptoms most often include sores, blisters, or blemishes on the skin, especially on the face or genital area. Painful, ugly outbreaks are triggered by stress, sun, allergies, and also often appear at the end of colds. Once the virus is in the body there is no cure, but symptoms will not always be present.

There are two types of herpes virus: HHV-1 (oral) and HHV-2 (genital).
HHV-1 is a common viral infection that most often causes sores on the face and mouth commonly referred to as cold sores or fever blisters. HHV-2 can appear anywhere from the waist down, but most commonly causes sores on the genitals.

Oral Herpes     Genital Herpes

How is Herpes transmitted?

In order to be infected by HHV-1 and HHV-2, the virus must come in direct contact with skin or mucous membrane. Symptoms do not need to be present on the skin for transmission to occur. HHV-1 (oral herpes) can be transmitted by kissing an infected person, or coming into direct contact with their sores or saliva. Ironically, parents inadvertently pass oral Herpes Simplex Virus onto their babies with loving kisses. HHV-2 (genital herpes) can be transmitted by sexual activity with an infected person, whether or not they have active sores.

A person is generally considered most infectious during the prodromal phase, which occurs right before an outbreak of lesions (see below), and throughout the infection until the lesions have completely healed. However, because many herpes infections are asymptomatic, many people with herpes are unaware that they have the virus, and may pass it on unknowingly. It is possible to transmit the virus even when symptoms are not present.

How can I tell when a herpes outbreak is beginning?

The warning stage that occurs before an outbreak begins is called Prodrome. It can last for a few minutes or a few days before signs of an outbreak appear. Warning signs may occur at the site where the outbreak will appear, or in other parts of the body. The signs are different for everyone, and may include tingling, itching, or burning in one area of the genitals (vagina, vulva, penis, scrotum, or testicles), pain in the leg or buttocks, burning on the side of the leg or bottom of one foot, headache, flu-like symptoms (headache, fever, and swollen glands in the lymph nodes near the groin), and feeling emotionally irritable or depressed. The active virus is present on the skin in about 20-25% of people during the prodromal stage.

How can I treat herpes outbreaks naturally?

As soon as you feel the tingle of an approaching outbreak, apply Wellinhand's Herpa Rescue Spray to the affected area. Use three or more times daily to soothe the lesions and help reduce the severity of the outbreak. Cleanse with Wellinhand's Herpa Rescue Soap Soother morning and evening as well as any time you touch the sores to calm skin and prevent spreading the virus.

How can I prevent spreading the virus or contracting it myself?

To prevent becoming infected with the oral or genital herpes, keep in mind that it is transmitted by contact with a lesion or the secretions of an infected person. The virus enters the body through the skin or mucous membranes.

To prevent the spread of oral herpes, avoid contact with another person’s sores. Wash hands frequently, especially after contact with the sores. Try not to share personal items such as utensils, drinking cups, and razors.

Transmission of genital herpes primarily occurs through vaginal, anal, or oral-genital sexual contact. While the virus is very fragile, and it is next to impossible to get it from toilet seats, do avoid using other people's towels, underclothes and other objects that may come in contact with herpes lesions. Sexual intercourse is never advisable during active and healing phases. It is essential to use quality latex condoms properly during apparent inactive phase to prevent virus transmission. Use the condom every single time you have intercourse. Asymptomatic transmission is best avoided through the use of safer sex precautions. Condoms offer good protection and are recommended for use during inactive phases of herpes, at least until a long­term, monogamous relationship has been established.

 

Disclaimer: Have your situation diagnosed by your qualified health care professional. The information herein is not meant to substitute for the advice of your physician. All Well-in-Hand products guarantee satisfaction.

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