Herpes virus is a very common viral infection, as well as a type of sexually transmitted disease. In the United States alone, it is believed that herpes is present in over 50% of the adult population. It is estimated that approximately half a million Americans contract this disease every year, and the number is still growing. A large part of the increase can be traced to be coming from teenagers.

There are two types of herpes: oral herpes which are the all to familiar cold sores found in the mouth, and genital herpes which is basically the same type of sore, but found on the genital area.

There are two types of viruses that cause herpes. They are herpes simplex type 1, and herpes simplex type 2, or simply HSV-1 and HSV-2. Both viruses are very similar in that each of them may affect either the mouth, or the genitals. However, the great majority of time it is type 1 that affects the mouth, and type 2 that affects the genitals.

The herpes virus, just like the HIV virus that causes AIDS, attacks the body s immune system. In this case, the body is capable of fighting off the herpes virus, but sacrifices a piece of its immune system in doing so. This weakening of the body s immune system makes the body more susceptible to the attacks of some other viruses.

There is no absolute cure for herpes. It is extremely important that the people who have it control it from spreading throughout the body. In order to do this, the body s immune system must be reinforced. This can be done only through the use of medication.

People infected with the herpes virus know they will experience outbreaks from time to time. These outbreaks will cause skin rashes and sores to form on the skin, located either on the mouth, or the genitals. These sores will heal in time, only to return at a later date. It is estimated that someone suffering from the herpes virus will have approximately 5 outbreaks per year.

The sores themselves may feel itchy and produce a burning sensation. Those affected may also experience headaches, fever, and muscle aches, almost as if they were coming down with the flu. Urinating may also become painful.

Fortunately, in pregnant women, herpes has a very low risk of being transferred to a baby. Many times they can even give birth vaginally, although this will be the decision of your doctor.

Should a baby be unfortunate enough to acquire this disease, chances are that it will be a fatal condition. It is the treatment process that causes the danger. Permanent damages may occur such as mental retardation, neurological damage, and even death. If you know you are pregnant, and you know with some certainty that you have herpes, consult immediately with your physician. Herpes itself may not affect your pregnancy, but your prescribed medications possibly could.

People with herpes, or any other viral disease, are strongly advised to eat foods rich in lysine, but low in arginine. Some examples would be margarine, yogurt, cheese, papaya, and milk.

Herpes can be a serious medical condition, but with accurate information, a positive outlook, and professional medical care, you can overcome this problem.

Carl DiNello is an Article Author whose articles are featured on websites covering the Internet s most popular topics.
To read more on this topic, please visit Don t Let Herpes Ruin Your Life!

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