Herpe s By Nicola Keithley

What is herpes? Herpes is a term that generally refers to an infectious viral disease that is painful, fluid-filled sores or blisters in and around the mouth or genital region. Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease with blisters in the genital area. Oral herpes is a very common disease that causes small, painful cold sores and fever blisters of the mouth, lips or gums.

Causes of herpes? Herpes viruses are passed from one person to another during sexual contact that involves touching of the mouth or genitals, vaginal or anal sex. Oral sex can spread genital herpes to the mouth or transmit oral herpes to the genitals. Oral herpes can also be spread by kissing and other activities in which you are exposed to the mucous membranes or saliva of a person with oral herpes.

Type of disease Herpes is permanent and very contagious. Both men and women with herpes may have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all. Many, people with herpes have recurring outbreaks of symptoms during a period of months to years.

Common sufferers About one out of six people 14 to 49 years of age have genital herpes caused by the HSV-2 infection.

Signs and symptoms Although herpes can sometimes go unnoticed, but the initial sign is pain, uncomforted and itchiness. Red bumps or tiny white blisters will also show up after several days, which will rupture and become ulcers that will bleed. This causes pain whilst urinating. Also during an outbreak headaches and a fever will also occur.

Cervical Cancer? Cervical cancer can be linked also to herpes as herpes increase the risk of cervical cancer, which kills thousands of women everyday.

Bibliography herpes.htm#