subject: Signs of Genital Herpes - Do You Have Herpes? [print this page] The shock of being asked a question like this should be enough to cause every one of us to think. The first thing everyone needs to understand about genital herpes is the fact that it is spread by sexual contact. When an infected person has sexual contact with an uninfected person, the virus will be spread. People need to be aware of the signs of genital herpes. The mysterious fact, however, is that many people have the virus and are completely unaware of it because they have no symptoms at all. Lack of symptoms does not mean the virus is gone. Once a person has the virus, they have it for life. There is no cure for genital herpes, although medical treatments are effective when outbreaks occur.
The signs of genital herpes can be confused with other physical symptoms because a rash, for instance, does not automatically mean a person has genital herpes. The physical signs of genital herpes can appear on many places on the body, not just around the genitals. The virus travels through the nervous system, so it is possible for it to appear on virtually every part of the body and still be an outbreak of HSV (herpes simplex virus.)
The common signs of genital herpes are blisters, sores, rashes, itchy areas, especially around the genitals. Again, a symptom outbreak may appear on areas other than the genitals. Some people have reported that they can tell when at outbreak is about to occur by a tingling sensation in an area which is then usually followed by the appearance of a blister or sore. It is absolutely necessary to stop all sexual contact during an outbreak of symptoms. The virus is most easily spread by contact with actual sores.
It is important to remember that the signs of genital herpes does not spell the end of a person's possibility for meaningful relationships. Treatments are very effective in dealing with outbreaks of the HSV. In addition, it is vital to remember that the use of condoms are effective in greatly restricting the spread of the virus, although they are not foolproof. If you believe you have the signs of genital herpes, you must see a doctor. The very worst thing you can do is refuse to seek medical help because you are embarrassed. Diagnosing genital herpes is a very important step towards getting the disease under control. This is a very common disease and is treatable, but you must get help to know for sure.
