Every disease is characterized by stages. Herpes is no different. The first outbreak which refers to the first incident in which symptoms are experienced, is always the worst. Because the virus stays with the victim for life, subsequent outbreaks occur. These attacks have a pattern of progression that is characterized by distinct stages.
Below are brief descriptions of the different stages of a herpes outbreak and the healing process.
Herpes: The Five Stages
Redness. Redness and irritation of a skin area mark the beginning of an outbreak of genital herpes. The infected area becomes painful, itchy, and sensitive to the touch.
Inflammation. On the next stage, swelling occurs. This is due to an inflammation of the area which is a natural response of the bodys immune system. Swelling is a reaction that is dependent on the area where the symptoms manifest. It may or may not occur.
Formation of Blisters. Herpes is distinguished by the presence of small blisters on or around the genitals. There may just be one blister or several covering an area of the skin.
Transformation into Wet Ulcers. Wet ulcers result after the blisters break. They are raw, shallow and very painful. At times fluids ooze out of the blisters but generally wet ulcers just look like a cut. Just like blisters, there may just be a single wet ulcer, or several clumped together.
Formation of Dry Crusts. After the wet ulcers dry up, scabs begin to form. These scabs, if left undisturbed, will naturally fall off.
Completion of the Healing Process. After the scabs fall off, regenerated skin is uncovered and the herpes outbreak is complete. Although the skin may still be red, it is not sensitive anymore.
Transmitting Herpes
When an outbreak is over the virus enters a dormant state until another outbreak is triggered. Without the symptoms the disease is in what is called the asymptomatic phase. The risk of transmitting the disease is not as high during this stage as when symptoms are present.
Herpes is an incurable disease. Although there are medications that can control outbreaks and prevent contraction, everyone should be extra careful about protecting themselves from being infected. People who have the virus should use condoms and latex barriers such as dams when engaging in sexual activity even when symptoms are not present. There should absolutely be no sexual contact during an outbreak.
Herpes is highly contagious. The absence of an outbreak does not mean people will not be infected. Always be proactive whether you are protecting yourself from the virus, or avoiding its transmission to others.
Author Resource:-
Charles Volcolatte is a health researcher for www.end-herpes.com. He writes and researches actively on stop herpes and shares his knowledge at www.end-herpes.com where he works as a staff writer.
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