What is herpes disease? Various herpes viruses and methods of combating them. What prevents the disease from being cured?

As a rule, herpes is popularly referred to as rashes on the lips, the so-called “cold.” But in fact, there are 8 types of herpes, which have their own characteristics of the course, distinctive clinical signs and treatment methods.

The cause of herpes is a highly contagious virus that is transmitted from a sick person to a healthy person. Regardless of what type of herpes is present in the human body, this disease is characterized by a period of latent course - the symptoms of the disease in question appear only at a time when the person’s immunity is sufficiently weakened.

Herpes viruses are common not only among people, but also in nature. This is due to the high level of survival of the virus outside mucous membranes or biomaterial - even indoors at room temperature, the herpes virus lives for another 24 hours.

Herpes type 1 (simple)

In the specialized literature, this type of disease in question is referred to as HSV-1 (herpes simplex virus type 1) and may be called oral or labial herpes. The typical location for this type of herpes is the lips and nasolabial triangle, and infection can occur in the first years of a child’s life.

If a person is diagnosed, then the herpes virus affects:

• the skin of the fingers on the upper and lower extremities - more often doctors observe damage to the nail fold;
• mucous membrane of the oral cavity, internal organs, eyes and nasal cavity;
• tissues of the nervous system.

The characteristic features of herpes simplex virus type 1 are:

• development of diseases of the nervous system;
• suppression;
• damage to cells of the nervous system.

Symptoms of herpes simplex type 1

The most characteristic sign of this type of herpes is a rash on the lips - small bubbles with liquid contents appear inside, they grow and eventually either “fade out” on their own or burst. In addition to this sign, doctors note general signs of intoxication:

• pain in muscle tissue;
• general weakness and drowsiness;
• of a short-term nature.

Note:if infection with herpes simplex type 1 occurred through oral-genital contact, then the rash, as the most pronounced symptom, will be noted on the mucous membranes of the genital organs.

Diagnostic measures

The type of herpes in question is diagnosed either by patient complaints and a characteristic symptom (rash on the lips or mucous membranes of the genital organs), or by examining the body for some other reason. As part of diagnostic procedures, the doctor is obliged to:

• determine the type of pathogen that provoked the development of herpes simplex type 1;
• differentiate the pathogen;
• determine at what stage of the disease the patient sought medical help.

Treatment of herpes simplex type 1

In general, therapy against herpes viruses has some features:

• There are no preventive medications;
• herpes viruses are absolutely not sensitive to antibacterial drugs (antibiotics);
• complete destruction of the virus is impossible;
• If the course of the herpes simplex virus type 1 is short-lived, then the use of any medications is inappropriate.

One of the medicines that can have a truly therapeutic effect is Acyclovir. It is sold in pharmacies in various pharmacological forms - tablets, ointments, solutions. If you use this drug strictly according to the instructions, this will reduce the number of relapses of herpes simplex type 1 and shorten the treatment time for already visible signs.

Note:if a person has characteristic rashes on the lips, then it is necessary to exclude close contacts with other people - we are talking about kissing. Otherwise, the herpes simplex virus type 1 will certainly be transmitted to the body of a healthy person.

Herpes virus type 2

In the specialized literature, this type of disease in question is classified as genital herpes. Both men and women suffer from it, the cause of infection is unprotected sexual contact, however, the herpes virus type 2 can “settle” in the human body even with full caution during sex.

Treatment of this type of herpes should be carried out only under the supervision of a doctor and after a full examination by specialists. In addition to Acyclovir, for patients diagnosed with type 2 herpes, doctors prescribe a whole range of therapeutic measures - independent choice of drugs is inappropriate.

Herpes type 3 (varicella zoster virus)

The same disease in medicine is called both the chickenpox virus and the herpes zoster virus. It enters the human body through airborne droplets, and if it is a child, then he will develop chickenpox. A person who has recovered from the disease remains a carrier of the virus for life, with its localization in the cells of the nervous tissue.

In some cases, the “quiescent” herpes virus type 3 in a child may reappear at an older age, and the clinical picture in this case will be of the nature of herpes zoster.

If a child’s body is infected with the type of herpes in question, then the following symptoms will be identified:

• high body temperature, chills;
• rashes on the skin in the form of vesicles;
• severe, unbearable itching of the skin.

As a rule, in childhood, type 3 herpes virus quickly becomes inactive and is localized in the cells of nerve tissue. Usually the virus in question does not manifest itself in any way, but in some cases (decreased immunity, too long a course of chronic diseases, and so on) the herpes virus type 3 manifests itself herpes zoster. And in this case, the following symptoms will occur:

As a rule, after 2-3 weeks, all signs of shingles disappear, and small scars remain at the site of the rash - depressions/pits with smoothed edges.

Treatment of herpes virus type 3

There is no specific treatment for the type 3 disease in question - doctors examine the patient and prescribe symptomatic therapy. In childhood, these are antipyretics and drugs that reduce itching of the skin. For herpes zoster - painkillers, antipyretics, and if concomitant inflammatory diseases are detected - antibacterial drugs.

Herpes type 4 (Epstein-Barr virus)

This type of herpes is referred to in medical literature as the Epstein-Barr virus. It provokes the development of infectious disease, which is typical for people with diagnosed immunodeficiencies.

Symptoms of herpes virus type 4 and treatment

Infectious mononucleosis is a lesion of the mucous membranes of the oral cavity and lymph nodes, most often characteristic of young people. The main signs of this disease are high body temperature, morphological changes in the structure of the blood, pathological changes in the spleen, liver and other internal organs.

The most common symptoms of herpes type 4:

• body temperature rises suddenly, without any apparent reason and immediately to critical levels;
• there are complaints of pain in muscles, joints, throat and head;
• the oral mucosa swells and swells - doctors can differentially diagnose pharyngitis and/or;
• a feeling of constant fatigue, rapid fatigue, drowsiness - these symptoms may persist even after treatment for the disease for several months;
• small papular-type rashes appear on the skin and mucous surface, which disappear without a trace after 3 days;
• lymph nodes increase significantly in size.

Diagnostic measures consist of conducting a full examination of the patient and laboratory testing of his biomaterial - specialists identify the DNA of the Epstein-Barr virus.

Note:It is this virus that can provoke the development of cancer - Burkitt's lymphoma. Therefore, treatment should only take place in a medical institution, under constant supervision by medical workers .

Herpes type 5 (cytomegalovirus)

Herpes virus type 5 causes the disease cytomegalovirus. It is noteworthy that the symptoms of this disease are vague, the pathology occurs in a latent form, and the clinical picture begins to develop only when the immune system is weakened.

Symptoms of herpes virus type 5 and treatment

The manifestation of cytomegalovirus is identical to the course of a cold:

• headache;
• increased body temperature;
• general weakness and drowsiness;
• when swallowing, talking and at rest.

Cytomegalovirus can manifest as damage to the central nervous system, eyes, spleen and pancreas.

Herpes virus type 5 is especially dangerous during pregnancy - it has an active negative effect on the intrauterine development of the fetus. This may cause:

Note:Treatment of herpes virus type 5 is considered only during pregnancy. The feasibility of preserving the fetus is determined by the doctor - if the infection occurred after conception, then this is an absolute medical indication for artificial termination of pregnancy. In case of infection with herpes virus type 5, long before pregnancy, doctors prescribe antiviral, symptomatic therapy and a course of treatment with immunomodulators.

Herpes virus type 6

This type of disease in question is present in the etiopathogenesis of multiple sclerosis. The disease manifests itself in people aged 20 years and older; multiple sclerosis has not been diagnosed at an earlier age.

Symptoms

Signs of multiple sclerosis include:

• constant fatigue;
• often recurrent;
• disturbance of sensitivity in various manifestations - tactile, temperature and others.

These are the early symptoms of multiple sclerosis caused by herpes virus type 6, but as the disease develops, more serious signs of pathological damage to the patient’s organs and systems appear. These include:

• rapid changes in mood, disturbances in the psycho-emotional background;
• decreased visual acuity, double vision of any object;
• slow-witted;
• complete absence of pain reaction;
• urinary and fecal incontinence;
• muscle spasms, cramps;
• unusual pronunciation of words;
• violation of the swallowing instinct.

Note:The clinical picture of herpes virus type 6 can be variable - it all depends on which parts of the central nervous system are affected by the virus. This process is unpredictable, so doctors are careful in determining the symptoms of the type of herpes in question.

Treatment of herpes type 6

In the process of carrying out therapeutic measures, doctors use a whole range of medications:

• antioxidants;
• angioprotectors;
• corticosteroids;
• drugs with immunomodulatory effects;
• production stimulating agents;
• immunoglobulins.

But this list is far from complete - medications are selected on a strictly individual basis and only by specialists.

Herpes virus type 7

Most often, this herpes virus is combined with herpes type 6. This combination provokes the development of chronic fatigue syndrome, which is actually not a dangerous disease, and cancer of the lymphoid tissue.

This type of disease in question is characterized by the following manifestations:

Diagnostic measures and treatment

Diagnosis of herpes virus type 7 is carried out only in laboratory conditions - the patient’s blood is examined. The following methods are used:

• immunogram.

Treatment of this type of herpes consists of antiviral therapy, which is aimed at strengthening the immune system.

Note:preventive measures have not yet been developed.

Herpes type 8

Herpes virus type 8 affects lymphocytes, but can remain in the body of absolutely healthy people for a long time. Routes of transmission of herpes virus type 8: through the placenta from mother to child during pregnancy, during organ transplantation, and can be activated during radiation therapy.

Symptoms and treatment

Herpes virus type 8 causes several cancers:

• Kaposi's sarcoma– formation of multiple malignant neoplasms;
• primary– oncology with damage to the serous membranes;
• Castleman disease.

Treatment of such serious cancers is carried out through the use of radiation therapy or surgery.

All types of herpes virus must be treated - the general state of human health will depend on this. There are no safe diseases, especially those of viral etiology - the lack of therapy can lead to irreversible pathological processes in organs and systems.

Traditional medicine in the treatment of herpes

Important:You cannot rely solely on traditional medicine - remedies from this category can only strengthen the immune system, but cannot in any way get rid of the virus. Even completely official medications cannot cope with this task! But you shouldn’t give up traditional medicine either - some remedies will actually effectively curb the appearance of signs of various diseases caused by herpes viruses.

Pour 3 tablespoons of dried chamomile flowers into 500 ml of boiling water and leave for 6-8 hours (it is better to prepare the product overnight). The resulting infusion can be taken orally, 1 tablespoon immediately after meals - this will help quickly relieve inflammation in the upper respiratory tract and restore immunity during a cold.

If symptoms of herpes simplex type 1 appear, namely a rash on the lips, then you need to moisten a gauze pad in the resulting infusion of chamomile and make lotions. This will speed up the healing process of a “cold” on the lips, and if there is purulent inflammation, then chamomile will “draw out” all the liquid.

This plant is brewed in the same proportions as chamomile. But both traditional healers and trained doctors warn: you should not drink too much of this tea. The maximum permissible dosage is 500 ml per day, and not in one gulp, but in several doses.

Note:Licorice root can cause severe poisoning, therefore, it is strictly forbidden to use a medicine based on it during pregnancy, with diagnosed hypertension and renal failure.

This plant acts on the herpes virus from the inside, so the effect is quite impressive. Some healers recommend eating 2 flowers of this plant every day and treating in this way for 2 weeks, and then taking a break for 10-15 days.

You can prepare a decoction from the stems and leaves of tansy - 1 tablespoon of dry raw materials per glass of boiling water, cook the decoction for 10 minutes at low boil. Take 1 teaspoon of tansy decoction once a day after meals.

You can use the same decoction for external use - lubricate the affected areas of the skin, make lotions.

Oils in the treatment of herpes

To treat herpes rashes, it will be effective to use various oils - tea tree, fir, camphor. During the period when such manifestations of herpes of any type appear, simply lubricate the affected areas of the skin 3-4 times a day.

Note:Any remedies prepared according to prescriptions from the category of traditional medicine cannot be used in the treatment of herpes without first consulting a doctor. Firstly, it is necessary to exclude banal hypersensitivity and/or individual intolerance. Secondly, the above medicinal plants have quite a powerful healing effect and in some cases can provoke a deterioration in health. Thirdly, it is necessary to exclude/confirm the presence of diseases concomitant with herpes in order to outline the direction of the therapeutic course.

Herpes is often an almost harmless disease, but there are types of this virus that can become really dangerous not only to the health, but also to the life of the patient. Only a doctor’s consultation and competent, timely medical care will help patients.

Tsygankova Yana Aleksandrovna, medical observer, therapist of the highest qualification category.

Herpes simplex- herpes simplex or herpes zoster has been known to mankind since ancient times, and the name “herpes” is of Greek origin – “to crawl”, “to creep”, which fully corresponds to the clinical manifestations of diseases caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Due to the typical clinical picture, diagnosing herpes simplex is a fairly simple task. In doubtful cases, a study of the discharge of herpetic vesicles is carried out. Treatment of herpes simplex is reduced to local or systemic administration of antiherpetic drugs based on acyclovir, and, if necessary, immunomodulatory therapy is carried out.

General information

Herpes simplex- herpes simplex or herpes zoster has been known to mankind since ancient times, and the name “herpes” is of Greek origin – “to crawl”, “to creep”, which fully corresponds to the clinical manifestations of diseases caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Diseases caused by the herpes simplex virus are quite common, and some complications of the infection are fatal. Data from the US Centers for Disease Control record about half a million cases of herpes infection per year, which suggests that between 2 and 20 million Americans are carriers of herpes infections. In England, the incidence of genital herpes infection is rising above other sexually transmitted infections. In Scandinavian countries, herpes simplex is found in approximately 8% of women who consult a venereologist. In our country there are no statistical data on the incidence of herpes, but herpes infection is widespread, as indicated by data from private examinations of carriers of the herpes simplex virus.

Recurrence of herpetic infection occurs in the event of reactivation of the virus, this is possible after hypothermia, overheating, with reduced immunity, in particular, herpetic infection is a specific complication of HIV infection. Rashes caused by herpes virus serotype 1 are usually localized in the nasolabial area, the virus also manifests itself as keratoconjunctivitis, and rashes caused by HSV-2 are localized in the genital area. But, taking into account the characteristics of sexual behavior, the localization of the rash may be exactly the opposite. Therefore, herpes requires serological studies to establish the serotype.

Etiology and pathogenesis

The group of herpes viruses includes 4 viruses similar in morphology: HSV (herpes simplex), varicella-zoster - the causative virus of herpes zoster and chickenpox, Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus; in 1962, it was revealed that the herpes simplex virus has two serotypes - serotype 1 and serotype 2. Serological studies confirm that by the end of the 18th month of life, almost every person has been in contact with HSV-1, and the entry gate is usually the respiratory tract. After which the virus penetrates the cells of the trigeminal ganglion, but during its life it may never cause clinical manifestations of infection.

The first contact with HSV-2 usually occurs during puberty at the beginning of sexual relations. Moreover, after external manifestations, which may not exist, the virus also becomes inactive and can persist in the cells of the sacral ganglion for a long time.

Herpes simplex, especially the second type, has oncogenic properties, which is of great importance, given the prevalence of the infection. The incidence rate of herpes infection is approximately the same in all age groups and is equally common regardless of gender. Clinical manifestations depend on the location and size of the lesion, as well as on the general condition of the immune system.

Manifestations of herpes

Herpes simplex is most often localized around the wings of the nose, the corners of the mouth, the red border of the lips and in the genital area, that is, around natural openings. In one, or less often in two or three places, small bubbles appear against the background of limited hyperemia; each focus contains from two to ten or more. The bubbles are located in a group and are filled with transparent exudate, which becomes cloudy after a few days. In some cases, single bubbles merge to form several multi-chambered bubbles, which have an uneven scalloped edge and reach up to 1.5 cm in diameter.

When the process is localized, blisters on areas of the skin that are not subject to maceration and friction shrink into a yellowish-gray crust, which disappears on its own after 5-7 days. And in place of the bubble, a pigmented area remains, which after some time acquires a normal color.

On the mucous membranes, as well as in those areas that are subject to maceration or friction, the bubbles open, resulting in the formation of polycyclic erosions with a bright red bottom. The rashes are accompanied by burning, pain and a tingling sensation; if there are a lot of rashes, swelling of nearby tissues occurs. The general condition of the patient with infection caused by the herpes simplex virus does not suffer, but in some cases chills, muscle pain and low-grade fever may occur. In general, the process lasts 10-14 days; when a secondary infection occurs, the duration of the disease increases.

The herpes simplex virus can cause herpetic stomatitis, the clinical manifestations of which are lesions of the mucous membrane of the mouth, lips, cheeks, gums and palate. Small groups of small bubbles appear on the swollen and hyperemic mucous membrane. The bubbles open in the first few hours, leaving erosions that, due to fusion, have finely scalloped outlines. After 2-4 days, the erosions are covered with a delicate fibrous film and then epithelialized. Herpetic stomatitis, not complicated by other infections, lasts 6-14 days, the general condition of the patient is satisfactory, but pain in the oral cavity and hypersalivation are noted.

In children of primary and preschool age, the herpes virus most often causes acute aphthous stomatitis. During the short prodromal period, general malaise, weakness, loss of appetite and a slight increase in body temperature are noted. The oral mucosa is sharply swollen and hyperemic, and aphthoid-like rashes are localized everywhere. Unlike simple stomatitis, the rashes have the form of aphthae with an area of ​​necrosis in the center and a pronounced inflammatory rim along the periphery, the diameter of individual rashes is up to 1 cm. As the process progresses, the aphthae merge and form extensive erosive and ulcerative areas with uneven edges. There is hypersalivation, loss of appetite, fever and severe pain.

In some patients, relapses of herpes infection are possible depending on seasonality or without connection with the time of year; with reduced immunity, relapses can occur several times a month. Clinical manifestations of recurrent herpes depend on the location and general condition of the patient, but do not differ from the manifestations of herpes simplex.

The basis of the pathogenesis of recurrent herpes are predisposing factors: hypothermia or overheating of the body, common and colds, previous infectious diseases, as well as all diseases that weaken cellular immunity. In women, there is a connection between the periods of the menstrual cycle and exacerbations of recurrent herpes infection.

Diagnosis of herpes

Diagnosis of diseases caused by the herpes simplex virus is not difficult, and in typical cases, clinical manifestations allow an accurate diagnosis to be made. But when localized in the genital area, herpetic ulcers may resemble chancroid. Erosion caused by the herpes virus has a polycyclic outline and there is a tendency to merge fine-vesicular elements; there is no infiltration specific to chancre, on the basis of this their differentiation occurs. Herpes simplex, unlike syphilis, is acute and in most cases is recurrent. In doubtful cases, they resort to laboratory diagnostics and test the erosion discharge for the presence of treponema pallidum.

Herpes, localized on the oral mucosa and occurring as stomatitis, should be differentiated from pemphigus vulgaris and from erythema multiforme, which has a seasonal course and recurs in spring and autumn. Diagnosis of herpetic stomatitis is based on clinical manifestations. Stomatitis caused by the herpes simplex virus is characterized by swelling and hyperemia of the oral mucosa, the appearance of large blisters prone to fusion. The blisters open within a few hours, and in their place there remain erosions with a scalloped edge, covered with a fibrous film on top. If the red border of the lips is affected, then the exudate from serous quickly turns into bloody, and the rashes shrink into single bloody crusts. There is loss of appetite, hypersalivation and pain when eating. Rashes with pemphigus are usually located singly on the mucous membrane, which is not prone to swelling, epithelization and formation of a fibrous film also do not occur, acantholytic cells are found in smears from the eroded surface, and Nikolsky’s symptom is positive, which is not observed during infection with the herpes virus.

If confirmation of the diagnosis of the presence of the herpes virus is required, then in the first few days from the onset of the disease, cytological studies are most informative. The material is taken by scraping and stained according to Romanovsky-Giemsa; after staining, giant multinucleated cells with basophilic cytoplasm are clearly visible. The nuclei inside the cells are arranged crowded together, forming layers, and outwardly resemble a single conglomerate. If unclear staining occurs, then the nuclei may not have clear outlines, which does not make it difficult to confirm the diagnosis of herpes simplex. Additionally, a PCR test for the herpes simplex virus, an immunofluorescence reaction (RIF) and a test for antiherpetic antibodies using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) are carried out.

Treatment of herpes

Treatment of recurrent herpes involves immunorehabilitation of patients, this helps to achieve a reduction in relapses or stable remission. Herpes simplex does not tolerate monotherapy, since it is inappropriate; it is used only to treat the acute phase of the disease. If you use such therapy as the only method of treatment, then the constant use of drugs such as acyclovir and valacyclovir, the use of ointments resemble a vicious circle from which it is impossible to escape, and stressful situations only aggravate the patient’s condition.

Attention! Self-medication can be dangerous to your health.

The external symptom of infection is a blistering rash on various parts of the body. It is popularly called fever or cold. Occurs most often in conditions of weakened immunity. If blisters form on a person’s genitals, they speak of a sexually transmitted infection.

The way to implement it is as follows:

• The virus attaches to the cell epithelium using “spines”.
• Sometimes herpes detaches. In this case, infection does not occur. This phenomenon is called reversible adhesion.
• If detachment does not take place, the membranes of the cell membrane and the virus merge.
• Herpes penetrates the cell nucleus, introducing its own DNA into it.
• A day later, the affected cell itself begins to serve as a source of infection. Viruses enter the blood and spread throughout the body of a living being.
• The affected cell dies.
• From the blood, herpes enters the plexus of nerve fibers, where it is inaccessible to interferons and antibodies, that is, the action of the immune system. Here he exists all his life. Therefore, once infected, a person remains a carrier forever.

While in a latent state, the virus can become active from time to time. This is facilitated by a decrease in protective forces, for example, during colds, infectious diseases, inflammation, smoking, and drug use.

You can become infected with herpesvirus through contact with a rash or secretions of a patient, for example, through contact with household items. Another way of infection is through kissing and sexual intercourse. This is how genital herpes, which is one of the sexually transmitted diseases, is mainly transmitted. The infection can also be transmitted from mother to child during labor. Approximately half of the carriers of the virus experience relapses of the disease.

Symptoms and development

Herpes simplex is manifested by the formation of crowded blisters. They are filled with transparent contents and have an inflamed base. Before their occurrence, a person feels a burning and itching of the skin, in some cases general malaise and chills are possible.

With herpes zoster, pain along the nerve and headaches first appear. A few days later, rashes form on the skin in the area of ​​the nerve. They look like grouped bubbles. At first, the bubbles are filled with transparent contents. Then it becomes bloody and purulent.

At the same time, the patient experiences the following symptoms:

• increased body temperature;
• swollen lymph nodes;
• general deterioration of health;
• the appearance of neuralgic pain, which can persist for several months.

Herpes simplex goes through 4 stages of development:

• Tingling. Before a “fever” appears on the skin, itching occurs in the corners of the mouth, tongue, lips or other parts of the face. In the area where a recurrence of infection subsequently appears, precursors appear: tingling and tingling, pain. The skin in this area turns red.
• Inflammation. First, a small, painful blister forms. Over time it becomes larger. A clear liquid fills it inside. Gradually it becomes cloudy.
• Ulceration. The bubble bursts. Liquid containing billions of viral particles leaks out. An ulcer appears in place of the vesicle. It is during this period that a person is a dangerous source of infection, since many viral particles are released into the environment.
• Scab formation. The ulcer becomes covered with a crust. If it is damaged, bleeding and pain occur.

If the “fever” on the skin does not go away within 10 days, you should consult a doctor. This condition may indicate the presence of other serious illnesses. In people with weak immunity, necrotic forms may occur and scars may appear on the skin.

The development of genital herpes and its symptoms are somewhat different. With primary genital herpes (the first time in a person’s life), its course is asymptomatic. This leads to viral carriage or a relapsing form.

Doctors consider the asymptomatic course to be the most dangerous. Without knowing about the infection, a person continues to be sexually active and serves as a source of infection for partners. Moreover, it is during the primary development that herpes is especially contagious.

The incubation period of primary genital herpes is 1-10 days. Rashes can occur both on the external part of the genital organs and inside the vagina or urethra, on the legs, thighs, and in women, on the buttocks. Sometimes groups of blisters form in or inside the rectum.

Types of herpes

There are about a hundred species in the family of herpes infections. Of these, only 8 are dangerous to humans.

All types of herpes are very common. Mostly they are in a latent state and reveal themselves when the body is under stressful conditions.

Causes of the disease and routes of infection

The cause of herpesvirus is infection from a patient with the virus on the epithelium.

There are many ways of transmission:

• airborne method;
• direct contact;
• sexual contact;
• infection through hygiene items, personal belongings;
• penetration through the cervical canal into the uterine cavity;
• transplacental method;
• generic activity.

There are a number of factors that increase the risk of infection and provoke relapses:

• local damage to the nasolabial triangle or eyes;
• acute respiratory diseases, influenza and other diseases that are accompanied by a rise in body temperature;
• exposure to ultraviolet radiation;
• hypothermia or overheating;
• strong cold wind;
• state of immunodeficiency;
• changes in immune defense in women depending on the period of the menstrual cycle;
• work with various chemical compounds;
• living near hazardous industries or working in them;
• bad ecology;
• chronic overwork and stress;
• deficiency of microelements and vitamins in the body.

The patient becomes most dangerous for other people during the formation of blistering rashes. When they dry out, the likelihood of infection spreading decreases. However, the risk of infection exists even if a person does not have any symptoms of a herpes infection. He can transmit the virus through his saliva.

Women at risk of developing herpes are women aged from 20 to 40 years. According to statistics, 135 of them out of 100 thousand people are diagnosed with simple herpes virus type 2, a genital infection. It is estimated that in European countries it holds the second place among sexually transmitted diseases, after trichomoniasis.

Treatment of herpes, especially its chronic form, is a complex process. You should not take steps on your own. It is important to consult your doctor.

Medicines

Clinical studies show that in the treatment of chronic and acute forms of the disease caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 or 2, it is most advisable to use acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir.

For primary disease or relapse of genital herpes, the prescribed dose is 200 mg 5 times a day. The duration of treatment varies from 5 to 10 days.

People with herpes simplex type 1, which manifests itself as a rash on the skin, are recommended to use 5% acyclovir cream at an early stage. The product is used up to 5 times a day for 5 to 7 days.

In case of infection with genital herpes, valacyclovir is prescribed. The dosage of the product is 0.5 g twice a day. The duration of treatment with the drug is from 5 to 10 days.

During pregnancy, treatment is indicated for so-called disseminated forms of herpesvirus (hepatitis, encephalitis). Acyclovir is used. If during the month before the date of birth the mother experiences herpetic eruptions on the genitals, the primary genital form of infection, then a cesarean section is recommended. This helps avoid infecting the child.

Folk remedies

Together with medications, you can use traditional recipes:

• Birch bud tincture. 25 g of dry raw materials, which can be bought at a pharmacy, are poured with alcohol. Leave for 14 days, filter. During relapses, wipe the affected areas of the skin with the tincture.
• Chamomile flower decoction. Used to treat wounds. It is prepared in the following way: take 30 g of dried flowers, add hot water and boil for 10 minutes. Leave for about an hour.
• Compress with celandine juice. Freshly squeezed juice is used for herpes zoster. To do this, the plant is ground and the liquid is filtered. A cotton swab or gauze is soaked in it, applied to the affected area, covered with cellophane and left overnight.
• Baking soda. The contents of a tablespoon are added to a glass of water and heated. Moisten a cotton swab and apply it to the rash several times until the water cools.
• Essential oils. Effective in the treatment of genital herpes, as they have antiviral properties. Take 2 drops of tea tree oil, add 4 drops of bergamot oil and a teaspoon of vodka or alcohol. The herpes blisters are wiped with the solution several times a day.
• Aloe leaves. They act as natural antibiotics, as they have an antibacterial effect. A cross section is made on a plant leaf and pressed onto the affected area. The procedure is repeated 2-3 times a day.
• Garlic. 3 cloves are crushed, a spoonful of honey and a spoonful of crushed activated carbon are added. Everything is mixed. The gruel is used to lubricate the rashes.
• Tea. To prepare a compress from black tea, the drink is brewed and filtered. The tea leaves are applied to the affected area, gauze is placed on top and left for half an hour.

Occurrence of relapse

Relapses of herpes are provoked by the following factors:

• the ability of the virus to remain inside the body’s cells for a long time in a “sleeping” state;
• low viability of herpesvirus in the environment;
• a high degree of variability, due to which immunity to it is short-lived.

The frequency of relapses varies from person to person. For some they occur once every few years, for others - monthly.

With repeated infection, the clinical picture is less pronounced in comparison with cases of primary infection. This is explained by the action of acquired immunity. Symptoms of the disease are observed for 10 days and disappear faster.

After the infection goes into remission, the immune system should be strengthened:

• adhere to proper nutrition;
• take vitamin complexes;
• often be in the fresh air;
• observe the work and rest schedule;
• get moderate physical activity;
• avoid hypothermia.

Preventive methods

For carriers of the herpes virus, vaccination is used as a preventive measure in some countries. There are antiherpetic vaccinations, including domestic ones. The polyvaccine is administered in cycles of 5 injections 1-2 times a year. The drug is administered subcutaneously at intervals of 5 to 10 days. You can only get vaccinated during remission. After the last rash has disappeared, at least 14 days must pass.

Another important means of prevention is antiviral drugs. To prevent rashes, you can use Acyclovir, Famciclovir or Penciclovir.

• if one of the family members is ill, minimize contact with him for as long as the rash is present on his body;
• when visiting the toilet, use disposable toilet wipes or disinfectants;
• do not engage in casual sex, especially without condoms;
• avoid overheating, hypothermia, stress;
• Do not use other people’s hygiene or cosmetic products.

To prevent the virus from “awakening” in the body, it is necessary to adhere to a healthy lifestyle, avoid hypothermia, and monitor your immunity. For prevention and during exacerbations, consult a doctor, take timely treatment with antiviral drugs and help yourself with folk remedies.

Back in 2012, statistics were published that more than half of people under the age of fifty were infected with the herpes simplex virus on the planet. What kind of virus is this, why is it so widespread and how dangerous is the disease of the same name? Let's talk in this article.

What is the herpes virus?

The herpes virus or herpesvirus is a large family of viruses that infect both humans and the animal kingdom. The mechanism of action of this group of viruses is to damage the cells of the body, which is why, once it gets into it, the virus remains there forever.

Often a person lives his whole life with the herpes virus, which does not manifest itself in any way. This fact is a distinctive feature of the entire family of herpes viruses.

Types of herpes virus

A total of 86 types of herpes viruses have been studied and described. In humans, eight of them occur. A characteristic feature of each of them is the diseases they cause. Typing of human herpesviruses is based on ascending complexity of diseases. We present the classification in the table:

The first five types of human herpesvirus have been studied and described. The sixth, seventh and eighth types have been studied superficially. The relationship between them and diseases has not been clearly established.

The herpes virus is transmitted through skin contact with its carrier. It does not necessarily turn into a disease in the carrier of the virus. The virus is highly contagious. Especially in the active form of the disease.

When talking about herpes viruses, they often mean the first two types of viruses - herpes simplex viruses. They cause the disease of the same name, which we will continue to talk about.
Varicella zoster virus, or the third type of herpes virus, is also widespread and well studied. It causes common chickenpox and shingles. These two diseases are the same types of herpes. Shingles is also called herpes zoster.

What kind of disease is herpes?

Herpes is a viral disease that is caused by herpes viruses of the first or second type. Its main symptom is a rash of blisters on the skin or mucous membranes, grouped in small areas.

Herpes appears on the lips and the skin around them, or on the external genitalia. Depending on where it spreads, the disease is called oral or genital.
Oral herpes is also called “cold sores.” This is due to the fact that the disease often manifests itself against the background of seasonal colds and seems to be their manifestation.
This is wrong. Herpes is an independent disease, and colds are the cause of its development.

Causes of herpes

It was already mentioned above that the herpes virus can remain in the body for a long time without external manifestations. The development of the disease can begin for several reasons:

• hypothermia,
• colds,
• emotional exhaustion,
• injuries,
• junk food, often during diets,
• menstruation,
• third-party diseases.

These reasons have a common feature: they lead to exhaustion. The virus manifests itself as a disease when the body's resistance decreases.

Herpes symptoms

The classic symptom of herpes is one: a rash of blisters on the skin and mucous membranes. Bubbles appear in small, concentrated groups.
The disease also has warning signs: itching, burning sensation, slight tingling around the mouth or genitals. But almost no one pays attention to them, although at this stage treatment can give maximum effect.
The classic picture of herpes simplex looks like this:

• 1. Itching and discomfort appear in the oral or genital areas (depending on what type of herpes begins).
• 2. The disease begins to manifest itself as the development of an inflammatory process. A small swelling appears and grows quite rapidly.
• 3. The swelling turns into blisters with clear liquid contents. They burst and liquid, containing millions of viral particles, flows out. Ulcers form in place of the blisters.
• 4. The sores dry out and turn into scabs, which can bleed and become very painful.

There are also atypical manifestations of herpes, when the disease goes away without the classic rash. Such cases are rare. Atypical herpes occurs with warning symptoms: itching, burning, swelling and redness of the mucous membranes, rarely with nagging pain in the lower abdomen.
Such symptoms indicate herpes, but require confirmation in the form of a test for the herpes virus.

The type of herpes is determined based on the location of the rash. Here there can be no confusion as to whether the patient has a genital or oral type.

Herpes virus: treatment in adults

Regardless of whether the patient is diagnosed with oral or genital herpes, treatment is carried out using the same tactics. But before moving on to its description, we need to recall an important nuance:
It is impossible to completely recover or get rid of the herpes virus. But correctly chosen drug therapy and an adjusted lifestyle give a result in which the patient will not be bothered by the manifestations of the disease.

Treatment of herpes, regardless of where it manifests itself, is carried out in two parallel directions:

• suppression of virus activity,
• strengthening the immune system.

They are equally important, but the last point above should come first. Herpes practically does not appear in those who do not have general health problems. Those who do not have bad habits, who eat right and lead a healthy lifestyle.

And the main thesis in the treatment and prevention of herpes: a healthy body copes with the herpes virus itself.

Suppression of herpes virus activity

To reduce the frequency and severity of herpes symptoms, antiviral drugs are used during periods of exacerbation of the disease. Their effectiveness remains quite controversial, but they show good results for herpes. In the treatment of the disease, drugs are used that contain acyclovir, an antiviral substance, a synthetic analogue of the thymidine nucleoside. The latter is a natural component of human DNA. Acyclovir is found in pharmacies under different commercial names. Here are a few of them:

Antiviral drugs for herpes are creams and ointments for topical use. They act on the virus at the site of the disease, which is sufficient for the standard course of the disease.

When herpes occurs with complications, antiviral drugs are prescribed by injection. This is a more effective method, but due to the principle of sufficiency it is rarely used.

It must be remembered that antiviral drugs for herpes do not cure the disease. They only effectively eliminate the symptoms of the disease and reduce the frequency of its manifestation and severity. Any antiviral drug is prescribed only on the recommendation of a doctor.

Strengthening the immune system

The issue of strengthening the immune system for herpes goes much further than a simple recommendation to lead a healthy lifestyle. The manifestation of the disease indicates that there has been a serious malfunction in the functioning of the immune system, which needs to be solved with therapeutic methods.

It is believed that immunomodulators (drugs for regulating the functioning of the immune system) for herpes are necessary when the disease occurs more than four to five times a year. In such cases, we can say that the immune system cannot cope with its protective function and needs external support.

One may come across the opinion that immunomodulators are a marketing product without proven effectiveness. But to achieve the goal, all means are good and for herpes this statement is correct.

There are dozens of immunomodulators on pharmacy shelves. Choosing a specific one is the task of the doctor who has used them and knows exactly the features of each medical history.
Here are the names and descriptions of popular immunomodulators:

Whatever drug is used, you need to remember that immunomodulators are not a panacea. They are helpers. The body’s protective functions need to be strengthened not only with medications.

Traditional medicine recipes for herpes

Regarding herpes in folk medicine there are only three proven recipes. This is due to the fact that medications are either effective for this disease or they are not. Folk recipes are extremely simple.

At the first appearance of a “cold on the lips”, even before going to the pharmacy for anti-herpes cream, it is useful to rub the rash with a cut of a clove of garlic. It is best to do this at night so that the juice remains at the site of the lesion longer.

The antiviral effect of garlic is widely known. It suppresses the activity of herpesvirus well.

Symptoms of herpes are relieved by regular ice. By applying a piece of ice to the area of ​​the rash, the itching, pain and burning will go away quickly, but not for long. The procedure can be repeated several times until traditional medicines give results.

Brewing tea helps fight the symptoms of herpes. The brewed tea bag is applied to the site of the herpes lesion and left for 15-20 minutes. Tannins contained in tea leaves have an anesthetic effect and effectively relieve pain and discomfort.

Complications after herpes

Herpes is a very dangerous disease in terms of possible complications. Their development is facilitated by:

• weakened immunity and lack of immunostimulating therapy;
• lack of treatment and prolonged manifestations of the disease with frequent relapses.

Complications can spread to almost all human life systems and cause many diseases. Here are some of them:

Diseases - complications of herpes - Esophagitis, herpetic proctitis, viral stomatitis. Keratitis, iridocyclitis, corneal opacity. Herpetic encephalitis, meningitis, peripheral neuritis. Herpetic urethritis, herpetic cervicitis, erosion of the anterior urethra. Herpetic pneumonia, herpetic hepatitis.

It can be noted that many diseases that can manifest as complications of herpes even have the designation of herpes etiology in their names. This once again confirms the versatility and danger of the herpes virus.

The danger lies in the mechanism of action of the disease. The virus is integrated into the genome of nerve cells and can appear anywhere they are. And they are found throughout the body.
Therefore, herpes must be treated urgently to prevent complications from developing.

Herpes during pregnancy

Infection of a woman with herpesvirus during pregnancy requires a separate explanation.

When the virus enters the human body, it is kept in a latent state by the immune system, which produces the necessary antibodies. During pregnancy, a woman’s immunity is weakened and with primary infection with a herpes virus there is a risk of its dangerous effect on the body of the expectant mother and fetus.

The absence of antiherpes antibodies allows the virus to freely penetrate the fetus, which provokes the development of defects and even miscarriages.

Herpes occurs more easily in pregnant women with repeated manifestations. The defense system is already familiar with the virus and is ready to resist it. The infection does not reach the fetus and the child can be infected only at the time of birth. Statistics show that if the mother has genital herpes, the chance of infecting the child at the time of birth is more than forty percent. Every fifth child will get herpes.

Therefore, herpes in pregnant women is a dangerous disease that requires a prompt therapeutic response. It is difficult for the expectant mother’s body to resist the virus and cannot do without full-fledged drug treatment.

Prevention of herpes

Preventing the manifestation of herpes is an interesting event, taking into account the fact that most people on the planet are carriers of the herpes virus. The main task of disease prevention is not to prevent infection, but to prevent the development of diseases that it provokes. In particular, herpes.

A strong immune system copes with this task. To maintain it in this condition, you need to follow a few simple rules:

• to refuse from bad habits,
• eat well,
• alternate loads and rest in reasonable proportions,
• avoid stress,
• Avoid overheating and hypothermia.

Preventing infection with herpesvirus, according to many experts, is a futile task. It cannot be said that certain actions will avoid infection. But even taking into account this opinion, the basic rules of hygiene cannot be neglected:

• hand hygiene after each visit to public places;
• use only individual personal hygiene products;
• use of contraceptives during casual sexual intercourse.

Vaccination against herpesvirus

At the moment, there is no preventive vaccine against herpes viruses. There is a therapeutic vaccine that prevents relapses of herpes. It was created by Soviet scientists back in the last century. But it did not become widespread due to the fact that it can only be used according to strict indications.

Now work on the creation of a preventive vaccine against herpesvirus is being carried out in many countries. From time to time information appears about successes in this work, but no one has yet achieved the final result.

Scientists predict that a preventive vaccine can be created in the next decade, and then the fight against herpes will become effective both in terms of stopping the disease and preventing infection.

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

Introduction

The virus can be transmitted through household items (towels, dishes, toys, bed linen).

If there are rashes, a sick person can spread the infection with his hands to other organs (from the lips to the genitals or to the eyes).

Therefore, if you have a rash, you should use an individual towel, dishes, and avoid kissing and oral sex. The ointment should be applied to the rash with a special glass rod purchased at the pharmacy. You should wash your hands thoroughly even after accidentally touching the rash. It is not recommended to squeeze out the bubbles and tear off the crusts, because... this also promotes infection.

Incubation period(the time from the moment of infection to the onset of the disease) can last from 1 to 26 days.

The herpes simplex virus, having entered the body through the skin and mucous membranes, can cause diseases in the following organs and systems:

• mucous membranes and skin (herpes of the wings of the nose, lips, genitals; stomatitis, gingivitis - damage to the gums);
• organs of vision (inflammation of the cornea, iris and retina, optic neuritis);
• ENT organs (herpetic sore throat, inflammation of the larynx and pharynx, herpes of the outer ear, sudden deafness);
• Cardiovascular system (myocarditis or damage to the cardiac muscle of the heart; aggravates atherosclerosis);
• respiratory organs (inflammation of the bronchi and lungs);
• gastrointestinal tract (liver damage - hepatitis - and intestines - proctitis, colitis);
• central nervous system (inflammation of the substance of the brain and meninges, i.e. encephalitis and meningitis; damage to nerve plexuses and nodes; aggravating effect on schizophrenia and senile dementia);
• female genital organs (inflammation of the cervix, inner lining of the uterine cavity, membranes of the fertilized egg, infertility);
• male genital organs (damage to sperm, urethra, prostate gland);
• lymphatic system (lymphadenopathy).

Provoking factors for relapse herpes can be:

• infections (bacterial or viral);
• weakened immunity;
• stressful situations;
• hypothermia or overheating;
• lack of vitamins in the body, “strict” diets and exhaustion;
• overwork and heavy physical activity;
• prolonged exposure to the sun;

Symptoms of herpes simplex

1-2 days before the appearance of the rash, itching, burning, and sometimes weakness and general malaise may be noted. Then bubbles up to 3 mm in diameter with transparent contents appear. The appearance of bubbles is accompanied by severe pain and unpleasant tingling. Bubbles can merge with each other. There is slight swelling and redness of the tissue in this area. The rash may be accompanied by fever and headache.

Then the contents of the bubbles become cloudy, swelling and redness disappear. After 3-5 days, the blisters burst, and the ulcer at the site of the bubble becomes covered with a crust. On days 7-9, the crust is torn off, leaving no trace. The process can last up to 2 weeks.

In 30% of women and 10% of men, primary herpes leads to complications, the most severe of which is herpetic meningitis (damage to the meninges).

Relapses of herpes occur with similar manifestations. A milder course of the disease and faster healing of ulcers may be observed. Relapses (in the presence of provoking factors) can occur up to 6 times per year.

Symptoms of genital herpes

Infection occurs through sexual contact (vaginal, oral, anal) or when the infection is transferred by hand from a different location. The source of infection can also be a sexual partner without acute manifestations of the disease, i.e. carrier of the virus.

There are primary and recurrent genital herpes. Recurrent herpes can occur in typical, atypical and asymptomatic (viral shedding) forms.

An atypical course of the disease occurs in 65% of cases. The viral nature of the chronic inflammatory process in the genital organs in such cases is confirmed by laboratory examination, because There are no rashes typical for herpes blisters.

In a typical course, the initial concern is itching and burning in the area of ​​the subsequent appearance of vesicular rashes, and general malaise. Chills and fever, headache may occur. Pain during urination and purulent vaginal discharge may occur. Nearby lymph nodes become enlarged.

Then bubbles (single or confluent) appear on the head of the penis, the foreskin in men, and in the area of ​​the labia majora and minora in women. The transparent contents of the vial become cloudy. After 4-5 days, the blisters open and the ulcers become crusty. With confluent rashes, the size of the ulcerative surface can be significant. The process lasts about 3 weeks.

Herpes can “spread” to the mucous membrane of the vagina, urethra, cervix, skin of the buttocks, thighs in women; and in men - on the urethra, testicles and prostate gland.

Genital herpes in women can lead to the following consequences:

• constant itching in the perineum and vagina;
• infection of the fetus in the early stages and miscarriage;
• infection of the fetus in late pregnancy can manifest itself as damage to the eyes, skin, nervous system and developmental delay. Primary infection of a woman in the last trimester of pregnancy is especially dangerous.

Genital herpes in men can cause prostate cancer.

Relapses of genital herpes are easier than the episode of primary infection, without fever and malaise. There are fewer rashes during relapses.

Symptoms of herpes zoster

Initially, severe pain appears along the nerve (usually along the intercostal nerves), malaise, and headache. A few days later, along the course of the nerve, a group of vesicles with transparent, and subsequently with purulent or bloody contents, appears on swollen, slightly reddened skin. The rash resembles the chickenpox rash. Bubbles can be arranged in the form of a ribbon or in the form of a ring. After opening the blisters, ulcers form and become crusty.

In weakened individuals, the rashes can occupy a significant area, and the blisters tend to merge (bullous form). Such patients (patients with malignant neoplasms, blood diseases, diabetes mellitus, receiving corticosteroid hormonal drugs, chemotherapy or radiation therapy) may develop other severe forms of herpes zoster:

• hemorrhagic (bubbles with bloody contents);
• gangrenous (with gangrenous ulcers);
• generalized (with damage to internal organs and systems).

When the virus affects the nerve ganglion (geniculate ganglion), the following triad of symptoms is observed: neuritis of the auricular and facial nerves, skin rashes in the area of ​​the auricle and sharp pain in the ear.

When the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves are damaged, sharply painful unilateral rashes appear on the mucous membrane of the pharynx, tongue, hard and soft palate. The blisters quickly open, forming ulcers and erosions.

In all severe forms of herpes zoster, herpetic meningoencephalitis (damage to the brain and meninges) can develop.

The rash can be localized in the inguinal-femoral region, on the neck, scalp, on the face (along the branches of the trigeminal nerve). The lesion is characteristically unilateral.

When contracting herpes zoster, the pain syndrome is pronounced. The pain can be aching, dull, shooting, or pulling. Pain can be observed only at the affected area or radiate (simulate cholecystitis, angina).

Severe pain is explained by damage to the nerve ganglia and plexuses by the virus. Therefore, pain can persist for a very long time even after the rash disappears (up to several months). This also explains impaired skin sensitivity, impaired salivation or sweating for a long time.

Herpes in children

The external manifestations of herpes in children are the same as in adults: small blisters appear in the area of ​​redness of the skin, and after they open, ulcers form. The child's general condition suffers little; a slight increase in temperature may be noted.

With facial herpes, rashes often appear not only on the lips, but also on the skin of the nasolabial triangle and in the nasal passages.

More often in children at an early age, herpes simplex manifests itself in the form of acute herpetic stomatitis or herpetic sore throat.

In a child with eczema or neurodermatitis, if infected with the herpes virus, multiple rashes appear not only on the face, but also on the hands, forearms, and sometimes on the torso. The rash resembles the chickenpox rash. The child's condition is serious, the temperature rises to 39-40 o C. Manifestations of stomatitis, conjunctivitis, pneumonia, and meningitis may occur. The addition of a secondary infection can even lead to death.

Recurrent herpes simplex occurs in children several times a year.

The occurrence of herpes zoster is possible only in children over 10 years of age; This disease does not occur at an early age.

Herpes: types, symptoms and causes - video