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Herpes: Main Causes and Risk Factors

By Hazel Thomas posted 12-21-2020 14:57

  

The herpes simplex virus can cause sores and is contagious through skin-to-skin contact. Unfortunately, contracting herpes bears a lot of stigma. The associations to sexual promiscuity and irresponsible behavior that people often make about it are harmful and can lead to misinformation and mistreatment. 

Herpes, contrary to popular belief, is not solely a sexually transmitted infection or linked in any way to sexual promiscuity. Knowing the causes and risk factors of herpes, outlined here, can improve how you treat it and prevent contraction. 

Types of viruses

Herpes infections are caused by one of two viruses; HSV 1 or HSV 2. HSV 1 can be contracted through interactions like sharing eating utensils, kissing, or using the same lip balm. HSV 2, on the other hand, is transmitted through unprotected sex and can cause genital lesions.

If you're experiencing symptoms or need help alleviating the symptoms of herpes infection, consult a doctor. Quickrxrefill.com will make your life easier with doctor's consultations from the comfort of your own home. Their affordable, reliable, and safe remote services will take care of your doctor's visits and prescriptions wherever you are. 

Skin-to-skin contact

As mentioned above, skin-to-skin contact like kissing and touching can transmit the herpes virus. The virus is generally more contagious in the presence of sores. These blister-like lesions are open and ooze but aren't always present in herpes infection. This phenomenon is known as asymptomatic shedding, which can be difficult to trace.  

To prevent infection, limit physical contact with someone who has an open sore and doesn’t share lip balms and eating utensils, including cups and straws. These strategies can be applied to interactions related to other contagious viruses as well, including chickenpox and the common cold, which are two variations of herpes viruses that don't cause herpes. 

Immunosuppression

Immunosuppression refers to the suppression of the body's ability to fight infection. A suppressed immune system increases susceptibility to many ailments, including herpes. Autoimmune conditions such as HIV or generally low immunity as a result of chemotherapy treatment or flu can increase frequent recurring infections.  

Immune support in the form of medications and boosters and limiting contact with people who have active herpes infections, can decrease chances of contraction. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and reducing the intake of harmful substances like alcohol, sugar, and salt can help support your immune system and foster a healthy lifestyle overall. 

Unprotected sex 

HSV-2 is commonly associated with genital herpes, but in some cases, a person with an active infection of HSV-1 can transmit the virus through oral sex. Multiple sexual partners also increase the risk of contracting herpes as well as intercourse and contact with asymptomatic individuals. 

Practicing protected sex will prevent you from contracting other sexually transmitted infections and diseases, so even if there aren't physical symptoms of illness present, safety is always advised. Open and honest conversations about sexual activity and health are important in any event and should be encouraged for the purposes of safety and responsible interactions. 

Stress

Unchecked emotional stress can put a strain on your immunity, while physical stress, as a result of prolonged illness, can result in lower immunity, which makes you more susceptible to viruses like herpes. Stress management is important for preventing and treating a number of other conditions. 

Start by identifying environmental and lifestyle stressors that impact your life. These can be managed or eliminated by adopting changes to the way you deal with stressful situations. Things like breathing techniques, yoga, herbal or medical interventions for anxiety can reduce stress and help you maintain a healthier lifestyle. 

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