Herpes

A common viral infection with telltale liquid-filled blisters.

What is it?

Herpes is a prevalent and highly contagious condition, marked by recurring flare-ups of small, painful blisters filled with clear liquid. These blisters often appear on or near the mouth or genitals, but can emerge anywhere on the body. The virus can stay in your body for years, or even decades. Outbreaks of sores can be triggered by lifestyle factors like stress or lack of sleep.

The culprits behind herpes are two types of viruses: Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1), mainly responsible for oral herpes, and Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 (HSV-2), primarily accountable for genital herpes.

Many carriers of the virus don't show symptoms, which is why it's frequently transmitted unknowingly. While there isn't a cure for herpes, the condition can be controlled, and the recurrences can become less severe and less frequent over time.

How is it treated?

Milder outbreaks of herpes can sometimes be treated with topical or oral medications to manage discomfort. For outbreaks caught early, our team may prescribe antiviral drugs to decrease the severity and duration of symptoms while also reducing the chance of transmission. Once symptoms from a flare up are under control, our board-certified dermatology providers can recommend lifestyle choices to minimize the risk of future flareups. With help from Dermatologists of Southwest Ohio and a solid plan in place, you can control herpes flare ups so they stop interfering with your life.

Our teams are here to help in Batavia, Beavercreek, Bridgetown, Cincinnati, Dayton, Dent, Greenville, Hillsboro, Kettering, Mason, Montgomery, Oxford, Troy, West Chester and Wilmington, Ohio.

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