subject: Primary Herpes Infection Symptoms Review [print this page] With the outbreak of AIDS, other sexually transmitted diseases such as the primary herpes infection have been overlooked, leaving the primary herpes infection symptoms unnoticed and untreated. The AIDS outbreak created a political and social firestorm in the 1980s. Ever since, the search for acceptance and a cure have pushed awareness for other sexually transmitted diseases to the sidelines of the health care community.Herpes is a viral disease that can manifest in an oral and genital variety. While Oral Herpes is visible through the appearance of sores in the lip area of an individual, Genital Herpes can go unnoticed without any outbreaks noticeable. The viruses, noted as Type-1 and Type-2, cycle between periods of activity and inactivity. The blisters can appear for 2-21 days. The virus disappears into remission after the outbreaks.The primary herpes infection symptoms of oral herpes Type 1, carries symptoms such as blistering. Blisters can appear in the throat and face (along with the mouth). In extreme cases, the Type 1 virus, known scientifically as HSV-1 can attack the central nervous system as encephalitis and can affect the eyes.Genital Herpes, Type 2, tends to be asymptomatic. Beyond viral shedding, HSV-2 is difficult to recognize an infection. However, when the disease is symptomatic it will manifest as legions in the genital area. Herpes can also affect the jaw and hands, producing sores or scabs.Severe cases can arise due to a weakening of the immune system due to any number of factors such as immune system suppression, and transplant recipients. The virus can also adversely affect newborns. There are also indications that cases of herpes can lead to Bells Palsy, a type of facial paralysis and Alzheimer's disease. In these instances, it is considered that the genetic disposition of the individual is the cause for these cognitive diseases to arise.Herpes is transmitted through contact with oral mucosa or abraded skin. There is no cure for the virus, as it remains latent in the immune and central nervous systems for life. Treatments for herpes outbreaks include antiviral medicine and topical creams.Recognizing the primary herpes infection symptoms such as legions, sores and viral shedding in oral and genital areas is an important first step to keeping outbreaks under control. Recognition of these symptoms and prevention methods such as safe sex and overall good hygiene can help stem the spread of the virus, as well as getting the proper treatment.
