What is herpes and how dangerous is it?
Last reviewed: 17.10.2021
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
According to statistics, 20% of the world's population is infected with genital herpes, but 80% do not even suspect it.
There are three main types of herpes
HSV 1 - herpes simplex of the first type - provokes rashes in the mouth area; HSV 2 - simple herpes of the second type - rashes on the genitals; The third type of herpes is called shingles, which causes the varicella zoster virus. According to statistics, 20% of the world's population is infected with genital herpes, but 80% do not even suspect it.
How can I get infected?
The first type of herpes virus is taken up by most people as a child. It is transmitted by airborne droplets or through direct contact. His presence, he discovers a periodic rash in the form of bubbles around the mouth. There is also a second type of herpesvirus, only on the genitals and transmitted through unprotected sexual contact (genital, oral or sexual). Also, the infection can occur through a blood transfusion, the use of someone else's dishes or laundry.
What is the herpes virus itself?
The virus that got into the human body becomes a big problem. But by itself, it dies in the air for a couple of hours, and if it is heated to a temperature of 56 °, it will disappear within half an hour. The virus is very sensitive to x-ray and ultraviolet radiation.
Why does the herpes pop up?
The herpes virus is instantly activated if it feels a decrease in the defenses of the body. While the person is healthy and full of strength, the virus peacefully rest inside the nerve fibers, which serve him as a reliable protection against external factors.
Treatment of herpes
Herpes virus infection is very contagious, because it is volatile, and besides it is also resistant to traditional methods of treatment. She can sit for a long time in the body, and sometimes settle there for good. In addition to the fact that the infection gets out and spoils our mood, it can lead to serious consequences - lead to the development of cervical cancer, brain and nervous system damage and even congenital defects in children.
Treatment of herpes at home
To get rid of the rash, camphor, fir oil and tea tree oil are used. Lubricate a sore spot three times a day. You can also apply a slice of garlic to the place of the rash, or even rub it, so that the juice soaks the skin. Odako, no matter how good the alternative means, it is better to seek help from a specialist.
Food
In the fight against infection a good helper will be a balanced, healthy diet that will help strengthen the immune system. Products containing microelements, vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin A, as well as zinc, delay the development of the herpes simplex virus.
[1]