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How You Can Live a Normal Life with Herpes

When many individuals hear the word “herpes” it causes panic and makes them feel like they cannot live a normal life. This is not to be true! You can have a normal and happy life even if you have herpes. The dermatologists at Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute share how this is possible through different tips and treatments.

What to Know About Living With Herpes

What Is Herpes?

Herpes refers to many different viral infections. Type 1 herpes occurs on the face and lips, and Type 2 herpes occurs on the genitals. If you have Type 1 herpes, you will notice fluid-filled blisters on the lips and face and a tingling sensation. The blisters will feel tender and possibly painful. Eventually, they dry up, crust over, and healed skin appears. Type 2 herpes on the genitals appears in the form of painful sores accompanied by a burning sensation. The most common symptoms of herpes are tingling, red, and sore skin. These are signs a breakout is going to occur. Once the breakout begins, you will notice blisters, sores, and bumps. Symptoms tend to last up to 10 days.

Herpes can spread not only to other parts of your body but to others you come in direct contact with. If it is your first herpes outbreak, infection occurs within two to 20 days of direct contact. If it is a recurrence, the outbreak is not as bad but can still be spread. If you have Type 1 herpes, it is recommended to avoid kissing and sharing utensils or food and drink. If you have Type 2 herpes, sexual intercourse needs to be avoided.

Can Herpes Be Treated?

Both herpes infections can be treated, but there is no cure. When you don’t see signs or symptoms of herpes, the virus is simply in a resting phase. Another outbreak can occur without warning. Fortunately, antiviral medications are available to help you continue living a normal life if an outbreak does occur. Antiviral medications can prevent and shorten herpes outbreaks.

In addition to medications, you can make yourself feel more comfortable and less irritable by taking pain relief medication, bathing in light salt water, applying petroleum jelly to the irritated areas and wearing loose clothing. Herpes treatment should begin within 24 hours of symptoms to help them not last as long.

You can still live a normal life with oral and/or genital herpes. Just be sure to take the proper precautions when it comes to spreading it or having another outbreak. Precautions that can be taken include using condoms during sexual intercourse and avoiding sex, and kissing someone who has herpes symptoms.

Having herpes should not make you feel like you cannot live a normal life. Taking medication and being cautious is important for living a normal life while having herpes. If you are in Bloomington, Illinois, or the surrounding areas, complete this form to get in touch with a dermatologist about moving on from herpes. A dermatologist from Dermatology & Mohs Surgery Institute will help get you your life back.

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