Herpes is an infectious skin disease that keeps many people awake at night. Not only does it not look aesthetically pleasing, but it is also most often located in a very visible place – on the face. More interestingly, as much as 80% of the world’s population is an unknowing carrier of this virus. Very often it does not make itself felt, but it can still be contagious or appear over time.
It is worth knowing that herpes is not only an ugly looking growth around the mouth. Contrary to popular opinion, it appears in various places. Where it occurs depends primarily on the type of virus that attacked the body.
- HSV1 virus – responsible for herpes appearing in the upper part of the body. It can manifest itself in the form of cold sores, corneal herpes or conjunctivitis. It happens that it even attacks the oropharyngeal cavity. Very rarely it appears on the skin of the auricle, fingers. An equally unique disease, but (unlike other forms) life-threatening, is herpetic meningoencephalitis.
- HSV2 virus – causes changes primarily on the genitals. It is a sexually transmitted virus, so you should see a venereologist-dermatologist. As a result of sexual contact with an infected person, in heterosexual men the disease affects only the urethra and the penis, in homosexual men – herpes proctitis may occur. In women, infection occurs around the cervix, vagina, and labia.
However, the most common and at the same time the most visible variety of cold sores is the one that occurs on the lips. It is characterized by eruptions resembling bursting bubbles. The symptoms are quite characteristic and it is difficult to confuse them with a cause other than a virus:
- Itchy, burning or painful blisters appear.
- Serous fluid is collected in the vesicles.
- Over time, they fill with pus, which after a few days causes small scabs to cover them.
- These types of blisters can also occur around the chin and nose.
It is important that after touching the infected area, do not rub your eyes with the same hand – the virus spreads very quickly to the conjunctiva or cornea, and permanent infection of these areas with the herpes virus can lead to eye damage.
How to prevent herpes?
However it sounds, it is absolutely necessary to prevent direct contact with another person, because the virus is transmitted by droplets. This means avoiding kissing, not using the same towels and cutlery. By reducing direct contact with an infected person, we reduce our chances of catching the virus. In addition, it is worth taking care of strengthening your immunity by supporting yourself with special dietary supplements, vitamin C, as well as using a balanced diet.
How to heal?
In the initial phase of infection, you can use protective patches available in pharmacies. This has its aesthetic value, because herpes becomes less visible. In addition, the use of zinc paste gives great results – it dries the follicle and supports skin regeneration. In the pharmacy we will also get many antiviral drugs, available in creams and ointments. Oral antivirals are used for extremely serious and widespread infections.