Herpes: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment in Hialeah, Florida

At League Against AIDS, under the care of Dr. Clara Baccini MD PA, we provide comprehensive care for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including herpes. Herpes is a common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), and it can be classified into two types: HSV-1, which typically causes oral herpes, and HSV-2, which is primarily responsible for genital herpes. Both types of herpes are highly contagious and can be transmitted through close contact with an infected person, including sexual contact. Although herpes cannot be cured, proper medical treatment can help manage outbreaks and reduce the risk of transmission.

What is Herpes?

Herpes is an STI caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It can be transmitted through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes of an infected person, most often during sexual activity. There are two types of herpes:

• HSV-1: This strain typically causes oral herpes, which results in cold sores or fever blisters around the mouth. However, it can also cause genital infections through oral-genital contact.
• HSV-2: This strain is responsible for most cases of genital herpes, causing sores and blisters in the genital and anal areas. HSV-2 is primarily transmitted through sexual contact.

Symptoms of Herpes

Many people with herpes may not experience symptoms, but when they do occur, symptoms can vary depending on the type of infection and whether it's a primary outbreak or a recurrent one. Symptoms generally appear within 2 to 12 days after exposure to the virus.

Symptoms of Genital Herpes:

• Painful blisters or sores in the genital area, anus, or surrounding skin
• Itching, burning, or tingling sensations in the affected areas
• Pain during urination
• Flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes (especially during the first outbreak)
• Recurrent outbreaks, though usually less severe than the initial one

Symptoms of Oral Herpes:

• Painful sores or blisters around the mouth or on the lips (cold sores)
• Itching or burning sensation before the sores appear
• Swollen, tender gums and sore throat (especially in young children)

Causes and Transmission

Herpes is caused by two types of viruses: HSV-1 and HSV-2. These viruses are transmitted through close physical contact, including sexual activity. HSV-1 is often spread through non-sexual contact like kissing or sharing personal items, but it can also be transmitted to the genital area through oral sex. HSV-2 is more commonly spread through sexual contact and is responsible for most cases of genital herpes. Even when no visible symptoms are present, the virus can still be transmitted, a process known as "viral shedding."

Diagnosis of Herpes

Herpes is typically diagnosed through a combination of a physical examination and laboratory tests. If you are experiencing symptoms, Dr. Clara Baccini may take a swab sample from a blister or sore to confirm the presence of the herpes virus. Blood tests can also detect antibodies to HSV, indicating a past infection, even if symptoms are not present. Early diagnosis is important for managing symptoms and reducing the risk of transmission to others.

Treatment for Herpes

Although there is no cure for herpes, antiviral medications can help manage outbreaks, reduce the severity of symptoms, and decrease the likelihood of transmitting the virus to sexual partners. Common antiviral medications include:

• Acyclovir
• Valacyclovir
• Famciclovir

These medications can be taken during outbreaks to speed healing and lessen symptoms or on a daily basis to suppress the virus and reduce the frequency of outbreaks. At League Against AIDS, Dr. Baccini will create a personalized treatment plan based on your needs and medical history.

Prevention of Herpes

Preventing the spread of herpes requires consistent and safe sexual practices, including:

• Using condoms during all sexual activity, though condoms may not fully protect against herpes, as the virus can be spread from skin that isn’t covered by the condom.
• Avoiding sexual contact during active outbreaks, as this is when the virus is most contagious.
• Communicating openly with sexual partners about your herpes status and any history of STI infections.
• Taking antiviral medications as prescribed by your doctor to reduce the risk of transmission.
• Getting tested regularly for STIs and encouraging your partners to do the same.

Complications of Untreated Herpes

While herpes is typically not life-threatening, it can cause complications, especially for individuals with weakened immune systems. In some cases, the virus can spread to other parts of the body, including the eyes (herpes keratitis), which can lead to vision problems or blindness if not treated. Additionally, pregnant women with herpes may transmit the virus to their baby during childbirth, which can result in serious health problems for the newborn.

Frequently Asked Questions about Herpes

• Q: Can herpes be cured?
  A: No, herpes cannot be cured. However, antiviral medications can help manage symptoms, reduce outbreaks, and lower the risk of transmission to others.
• Q: How is herpes transmitted?
  A: Herpes is transmitted through close contact with an infected person, including kissing, oral sex, vaginal sex, and anal sex. The virus can also be spread from the genital area to the mouth or vice versa.
• Q: Can I get herpes even if my partner doesn’t have symptoms?
  A: Yes, herpes can still be transmitted even when no visible symptoms are present. This is called asymptomatic shedding, and it's one of the reasons why herpes is so easily spread.
• Q: How can I manage herpes outbreaks?
  A: Antiviral medications, such as acyclovir or valacyclovir, can help reduce the severity and duration of herpes outbreaks. Avoiding triggers, such as stress or illness, can also help reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
• Q: Can herpes affect pregnancy?
  A: Yes, if a pregnant woman has an active herpes infection, especially near the time of delivery, it can be transmitted to the baby, leading to serious complications. Pregnant women with herpes should work closely with their healthcare provider to manage the condition and reduce the risk of transmission.