Safe sex keeps you protected from contracting unwanted infections from your partner. Unprotected intimacy, especially where there are multiple partners involved, may result in the development of sexually transmitted diseases, such as HSV.
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is a common sexually transmitted infection. The virus has two types, HSV-1 and HSV-2. While both types may lead to genital herpes, HSV-1 is usually associated with oral herpes, which causes cold sores around the mouth.
HSV is a highly contagious virus, and the transmission can take place through sexual contact, oral sex, kissing, and even through skin-to-skin contact. Once infected, the virus remains in the body lifelong and can cause recurring outbreaks of painful blisters or sores on or around the genitals, mouth, or anus.
Here are some common symptoms of the herpes simplex virus and the treatment methods that virtual doctors would recommend.
Blisters or sores
The most common symptom of the herpes simplex virus is the appearance of small, painful blisters or sores. They’re easy to spot on or around the genitals, mouth, or anus. These blisters are often filled with fluid (usually pus) and can be painful. The blisters can last for several days and then burst, leaving behind a sore that can take several weeks to heal.
Healthcare providers usually prescribe medications like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir to treat these blisters or sores caused by the herpes simplex virus. These medications help reduce the severity and duration of the outbreak, and they also aid in the prevention of future outbreaks. Additionally, taking pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by the blisters.
Itching or burning
Another common symptom of the herpes simplex virus is itching or burning around the affected area. This can cause discomfort in the skin around your mouth, genitals, and anus. It can also make it difficult to focus on daily activities.
To treat itching or burning caused by the herpes simplex virus, online doctors advise patients to apply a cold compress or take a cool bath, which can help alleviate the discomfort. Over-the-counter creams or ointments like lidocaine or benzocaine can also be applied topically to reduce itching or burning caused by HSV.
Painful urination
Herpes simplex virus can also cause painful urination, especially if the blisters or sores are near the urethra. This can make urination very uncomfortable, and going to the bathroom to relieve yourself may appear more of a hassle. In many cases, HSV can lead to anxiety or avoidance of using the bathroom altogether.
To treat painful urination caused by the herpes simplex virus, drinking plenty of fluids and taking warm baths can help reduce discomfort. Additionally, doctors recommend over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as they can help alleviate the pain that follows urination.
Flu-like symptoms
Some people with herpes simplex virus may experience flu-like symptoms during an outbreak, such as fever, headache, muscle ache, and fatigue. These symptoms can be very distressing and make it difficult to focus on daily activities.
To treat flu-like symptoms caused by the herpes simplex virus, telemedicine doctors advise their patients to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids. They also recommend taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help alleviate symptoms. Additionally, eating a healthy diet and staying active can help boost the immune system and promote faster healing from HSV.
Further reading: Why Should You Consult a Doctor Before Starting Birth Control Pills.
Recurring outbreaks
While treating herpes simplex virus symptoms is an option, the condition can’t be cured. This means that once an infection occurs, the virus remains in the body for life and can cause recurring outbreaks of blisters or sores over time.
To manage recurring outbreaks of herpes simplex virus, healthcare providers prescribe antiviral medications. Additionally, adopting healthy habits like eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of rest, and avoiding stress can help reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.
In conclusion, herpes simplex virus is a common sexually transmitted infection that is recurring in nature. While it may be common, it does require medical attention, but we understand that many people feel embarrassed visiting a doctor to discuss their STDs in detail. This is what makes TelMDCare a better option; patients can discuss their symptoms with a telemedicine doctor from the comfort of their homes.
TelMDCare is an online healthcare provider based in the US and aims to make healthcare in America affordable and accessible for all. To book an appointment with them, tap here.
Author’s Bio
Dr. Carlo Kerolosis specializes in treating health conditions such as erectile dysfunction, HSV, vaginal yeast infection, and bacterial vaginosis. He lives in Lake City with his wife and their cat, Peanut.
