Developing an illness or an infection can worry us, mostly because we do not know what to do at first because it is not yet diagnosed by a professional. Learning what to do and what to expect about certain infections and diseases will help us become more prepared.
A common infection
Herpes is a common infection caused by two but different viruses, the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). The virus is the culprit behind sores in the mouth and genital area. This condition can be painful and devastating, but it doesn’t necessarily cause serious health problems.
Herpes is very common; more than 50% of Americans are suffering from oral herpes and 1 out of 6 has genital herpes. Both types can cause an outbreak of sores in and around the mouth and the reproductive area. It is spread when your skin touches the affected skin of an infected individual. It causes itchy and painful blisters, as well as sores that come and go. It is mostly asymptomatic and it stays in the body for life.
Some people get outbreaks from herpes and don’t know what to do. But if they suspect that they have it, they can get help through a quick herpes diagnosis online.
Preventing infections
Herpes, especially on the reproductive area, is spread through skin-to-skin contact during lovemaking. The best way to avoid herpes and other conditions is to avoid or limit contact with another an infected individual. Protection is the best way to lower the risk of getting an infection.
Herpes can live on areas of the body that can’t be protected by condoms and dental dams. It is better to avoid lovemaking during a herpes outbreak because that’s the time it spreads more easily. There is no cure for herpes, but there are antiviral medications that can be prescribed by doctors to help relieve the pain and itching and to help the sores heal faster.
Home remedies
Here are some home remedies and tips that can help ease the discomfort:
- Painkillers can help with the pain when outbreaks happen.
- Soaking or bathing lightly in a warm sitz bath with medication or salt may help relieve the symptoms.
- Avoid tight clothes that may restrict and cause chaffing in the affected area. Tight clothes may aggravate the condition of the sores.
- Wash hands thoroughly right after touching the affected area.
Infections like herpes are long-term conditions but they can be prevented and managed properly with the help of medical professionals. It is not something to be embarrassed about; things can happen to us without us knowing it. But preparing for it and learning about it can help us with the management and prevention of such infections.
Health centers can provide us with more information about several infectious diseases. They can also help us learn how to prevent such conditions, as well as provide us with a proper diagnosis. But if they are not available at the moment and you want to be sure, there are quick ways to contact health professionals.
