Herpes is a common viral infection—it's not a reflection of poor hygiene. This mild condition often goes unnoticed but can cause painful outbreaks on oral or genital mucous membranes. Recognizing it early is key to effective management and protection.
Both are viral infections.
Commonly known as a cold sore, it appears as blisters on the lip caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Look for yellowish vesicles on the lip's outer edge, often with burning, tingling, prickling, or oozing. You might feel warmth or tingling beforehand. These lesions typically heal in 7 to 15 days. About 7 million people in France experience it.
Caused by HSV-2, this sexually transmitted infection affects both men and women. It presents as painful blisters on or around the genitals, with inflammation of the urethra, glans, or foreskin in men, and vulva, vagina, cervix, or urinary meatus in women. Symptoms may include itching, burning, or fever lasting about a week. Blisters rupture, ooze, and form scabs.
Both types can affect the eyes, leading to ocular herpes.
Diagnosis Can Be Challenging
Genital herpes is an underrecognized STI. Symptoms like vulvar burning or itching in women can mimic yeast infections. Roughly 20% of sexually active people carry the virus.
The herpes virus embeds in nerve cells and remains lifelong. After initial infection, it can reactivate during flare-ups triggered by:
For initial outbreaks, doctors prescribe oral antivirals for 10 days; recurrences need 5 days. Topical antivirals work well for early cold sores. Healing aids include essential oils like tea tree or ravintsara applied locally—but avoid during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Highly contagious via direct contact with lesions, transmission starts with early symptoms. Online teleconsultations can aid diagnosis and referrals. Doctors confirm via exam; PCR tests analyze vesicle fluid if needed.
At outbreak signs, skip kissing or close contact—consider a mask. Avoid touching lesions to prevent self-spread (e.g., mouth to eyes). For genital herpes, use condoms consistently to reduce STI risk.
During pregnancy, it can pass to the baby—a serious concern.
Prompt treatment prevents spread. Resources like Herpes Info provide screening, education, and support.
Source:
https://www.doctissimo.fr/html/sante/encyclopedia/sa_457_herpes_genital.htm
https://sante.journaldesfemmes.fr/fiches-Maladies/2544038-herpes-genital-cause-symptomes-depistage-photos-traitement-recidive/
https://www.doctissimo.fr/html/sante/mauxquot/sa_34_herp_simpl_01.htm
