Herpes simplex is a disease that is caused by herpes viruses of the first or second type and is characterized by the appearance of a specific type of rash on the skin and mucous membranes. The main ways of transmission of infection - contact-household, sexual, airborne. It is worth considering that you can get infected from a person with acute cold sores, even in the absence of visible manifestations.
When it enters the body, the herpes virus spreads through the hematogenous way, and also enters the nerve fibers. After the first infection, the pathogen accumulates in the regional spinal and cranial-cerebral ganglia, where it remains forever, staying in a "dormant" state and periodically becoming more active. "Awakening" of the virus and its active development is associated with a weakening of the body's immune defense, with hypothermia, stress.
Symptoms of simple herpes
Emerging with simple herpes rash pass several stages of development, characterized by such signs:
- sensation of itching, soreness, burning in a place where soon there will be visible changes in the skin, mucous membrane;
- the appearance of slight redness and swelling;
- the formation of one or a group of small, bubbling bubbles filled with a transparent liquid;
- the expression of vesicles and the formation of a painful sore in their place;
- Formation of a crust over the sore, which is subsequently rejected.
Rashes may be accompanied by other symptoms:
- increased body temperature ;
- general malaise;
- headache;
- enlargement of lymph nodes.
The localization of rashes can be different, and most often simple herpes "poured" on the lips or genitals. Also, a rash may appear in the mouth, nose, on any part of the face and body.
Diagnosis of herpes simplex
To determine herpes simplex, a blood test is used for igg (IgG) and igm (IgM) antibodies, showing the presence of herpesinfection in the body. A positive IgG result is likely to indicate a chronic infection, and a positive IgM result is a primary infection episode.
Treatment of herpes simple type
The main medicines used for simple herpes are local and systemic drugs based on:
- famciclovir;
- acyclovir ;
- valaciclovir;
- penciclovir.
It is important to start using these drugs in the presence of the first symptoms of pathology. During the appearance of rashes on the spot, the intake of these drugs, which slow the reproduction of the virus, will be ineffective.
Also for the treatment of using drugs that increase immunity, local drugs for early healing and disinfection of rashes, antipyretic and analgesic drugs.