Genital herpes is recognized as a sexually transmitted disease that is caused by the Herpes simplex virus.
Herpes simplex virus, however, is of two types, namely: Type I and II. While type II is the main cause of genital herpes, Type I, although not prevalent, can also cause it.
It is transferred from one person to another person during sexual intercourse. As a matter of fact, even if the symptoms of the virus have not begun to manifest on the carrier, it can, and will still be communicated, as long as there is sexual contact.
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An interesting point of note, however, is, using protection like condoms or being ‘careful’ does not guarantee protection from the transmission of this infection. The reason being that while condom protects a major part of the sexual organ of the uninfected partner (mostly the man), the uncovered skin could still provide enough room for the transmission of this virus.
The disadvantage of relying on the appearance of symptoms before checking your status is that for genital herpes, the symptoms may not manifest until months or even years, after contracting the disease. Unfortunately, just like earlier mentioned, you can still transmit the infection to your subsequent sexual partners.
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What then are the Symptoms of Genital herpes?
With the alarming rate of these viral infections, it is highly important to project the symptoms to reduce its spread in Africa. Africa is still well behind the western world in the control of viral infections like these.
In almost all cases of genital herpes, all or some of the following symptoms have always presented themselves, depending on the type of the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) involved, and the duration of contracting the infection before treatment begins.
The skin around the genital areas of an infected person is, mostly, cracked and dry and/or the evidence of reddened areas around the genitals that present, initially, without itching, pain, or any tingling sensation.
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Genital Herpes – if left untreated
If still left untreated, small blisters begin to crack up into painful sores. It is usually noticed around the sexual organ or anal region – including the butt. Also, it could be discovered on the inner thighs close to the perineum, even the lower or rectal area.
Occasionally, the blisters could present inside the urinary tube called the urethra – a tube enclosed within the body of the female and the penis of the male that serves as a conduit for carrying urine outside the body.
Subsequently, there is painful urination, especially seen in females. This occurs as a result of the open sores around and on the urinary opening.
Conclusively, below, is a list of profound symptoms common to both genders:
- Cracked, raw, or red areas around the genitalia without pain, itching, or tingling;
- Tingling sensation or itching around the genitalia or anus;
- Infected persons also suffer headaches as a result of this infection;
- Backaches can be very frequent with infected persons;
- Flu-like symptoms also occur in infected persons. These symptoms are fever, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue.
- Headaches;
- Fever, incessant fatigue, and swollen lymph nodes are also symptoms that manifest from this condition.
There is no cure for general herpes, but the symptoms can be lessened and prevented with treatment.
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