STD Symptoms, Herpes Symptoms & Herpes Test London

What is it

Herpes is an incurable viral infection which is divided into two sub-types: HSV 1 & HSV 2. The virus is transmitted during close contact with an infected person who is shedding virus from the skin, in saliva or in secretions from the genitals. HSV 1 is usually associated with oral cold sores around the mouth or fever blisters and HSV 2 is generally associated with genital blisters. Up to 60% of people who have genital HSV show no signs of the disease and are unaware that they are infected, but are capable of transmitting the virus to others (asymptomatic viral shedding).

Symptoms

Usually develop within 2 to 20 days of contact and may go unnoticed; include painful itching, burning, headache, swollen glands, muscle aches. Recurs periodically with blisters.

Other Adverse Consequences

Herpes is one of the most common STIs a pregnant woman can be infected with. Any lesions that are exposed near the vaginal opening during delivery could cause the disease to be passed on to the infant, potentially causing serious neurological damage, mental retardation or death. That is why many women with Herpes or other genital warts choose to deliver via a caesarean section.

Getting tested is crucial, because when your doctor knows you carry the virus, risks of passing on the disease to your infant can be minimised. The immature immune system of the child is unable to defend against the virus and even if treated, the infection can result in inflammation of the brain that may cause brain damage.

Test

Blood test or swab.

Treatment

There is no known cure for Herpes, although some drugs have been effective in reducing the frequency and duration of outbreaks.