Herpes simplex originates from the Greek word that means ‘to creep’; this denotes the distinctive pattern of all herpes viruses to ‘crawl’ along nerve pathways to nerve clusters at the ending, where they stay inactive for an undefined period of time.
Herpes simplex virus is known to cause infection of the mucous membranes and skin. It is one of the most complicated and stubborn viruses to manage and has beset mankind for hundreds of years. There are 2 types of herpes simplex; type 1 and type 2; these are responsible for oral and genital herpes.
HSV type 1 commonly causes cold sores and affects the mouth and lips. However, it can also cause genital herpes through oral sex. HSV type 2, by and large, causes genital herpes, but it may also affect the mouth via oral sex, causing oral herpes.
Symptoms become evident after about 6 -8 days of having caught the infection. This period between transmission and commencement of symptoms is the incubation period. Occasionally, the incubation period may be 1 day, or as long as 26 days.
What Are The Symptoms Of Herpes Simplex Virus 2?
Symptoms of Genital Herpes
Symptoms become obvious 1 – 2 weeks after sexual exposure to HSV. There will be a tingling sensation in the genitals, buttocks, and thighs. Small red bumps form, which then develop in to blisters. More blisters tend to appear and may rupture into open sores that are quite painful. Over a period of time, the sores dry out and develop a crust, and heal quickly without leaving any scar. Itching is an associated feature.
Other accompanying symptoms are: fever, muscle aches, headache, and swollen glands. There may be difficulty whilst urinating as well.
Symptoms of Oral Herpes
Oral herpes affects the lips and the mouth. Infection could also occur on the cheeks or nose, however, facial herpes is rather uncommon.
First, blisters form on the lips and tongue. They break open and become painful sores. These sores heal via crust formation and disappear within 3 – 14 days. Breath is offensive and there will be increased salivation.
Associated features are: fever, difficulty whilst swallowing, muscle pain and hearing loss.
Importantly, herpes simplex infection has a strong tendency to recur; recurrences are extremely common and need to be handled effectively.
Home Remedies For Herpes Simplex Type 2
- Maintain strict levels of hygiene. Do not touch the sores.
- Drink adequate amounts of water, at least 2 liters every day.
- Keep blisters dry by applying cornstarch.
- Do not wear tight-fitting clothes, especially underwear; this limits circulation of air and slows down the healing of the sores.
- Choose cotton underwear only.
- Apply ice packs to the blisters, it helps allay pain and reduces recurrences.
- Avoid sex during an outbreak.
- Echinacea is an excellent herb that manages herpes infection successfully. It is an effective anti septic. It boosts the immune system working and helps battle the infection.
- Siberian ginseng is another home remedy that claims to treat HSV infection.
- Application of Aloe Vera gel over the sores soothes them and alleviates discomfort appreciably.
- Boost your vitamin C intake; it will promote quicker healing and will prevent recurrences.