Herpes simplex
Treatment
Some cases are mild and may not need treatment. People who have severe or prolonged outbreaks (especially if it is the first episode), people with immune system problems, or those with frequent recurrences will benefit from antiviral medications such as acyclovir (Zovirax), famciclovir (Famvir), and valacyclovir (Valtrex).
People who have frequent or severe recurrences of oral or genital herpes may choose to continue taking antiviral medications to reduce the frequency and severity of recurrences.
Support Groups
Support groups and dating services are available for people with genital herpes.
Prognosis (Expectations)
The oral or genital lesions usually heal on their own in 7 to 10 days. The infection may be more severe and last longer in people who have a condition that weakens the immune system. Once an infection occurs, the virus spreads to nerve cells and stays in the body for the rest of a person's life. It may come back from time to time and cause symptoms, or flares. Recurrences may be triggered by excess sunlight, fever, stress, acute illness, and medications or conditions that weaken the immune system (such as cancer, HIV/AIDS, or the use of corticosteroids).
Complications
- Eczema herpetiform (widespread herpes across the skin)
- Encephalitis
- Infection of the eye -- keratoconjunctivitis
- Infection of the trachea
- Meningitis
- Pneumonia
- Prolonged, severe infection in immunosuppressed individuals
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Call your health care provider if you develop symptoms that resemble a herpes infection. There are many different conditions that can cause similar lesions (especially in the genital area). If you have a history of herpes infection and develop similar lesions, tell your health care provider if they do not get better after 7 to 10 days, or if you have a condition that weakens your immune system.
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