Can genital herpes be completely cured without recurrence?

Written by Luo Hong
Dermatology Department
Updated on September 05, 2024
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Genital herpes is difficult to completely cure without recurrence because the virus from the previous herpes outbreak resides at the sacral nerve root. When resistance is low, typically during times such as drinking alcohol and staying up late, the herpes virus travels to the area served by the sacral nerve, such as the external genitals, buttocks, and perineal region, causing blisters. Therefore, it is very difficult to completely eliminate genital herpes so that it never recurs, but the likelihood of recurrence generally decreases significantly after five to six years. Therefore, what we need to do is mainly to enhance our immune function. We can use some medications to help boost immunity, and we should also try to drink less alcohol and get more sleep.

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Written by Luo Hong
Dermatology Department
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How is genital herpes tested?

Herpes viruses are generally divided into two types, type 1 and type 2 genital herpes, mainly caused by type 2 herpes virus. The best approach for type 2 herpes virus is to use blister fluid for PCR testing of DNA. If testing is not possible, you can also consider blood tests for herpes virus antibodies. If the IGM for type 2 herpes virus is positive, then consider it a current symptomatic infection. If the IGM is negative, but HCG is positive, then consider this herpes as a past infection.

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Written by Xie Ming Feng
Dermatology
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Genital herpes appears in what location?

Genital herpes is a chronic, recurrent, and difficult-to-cure sexually transmitted disease caused by the infection of the urinary and genital skin and mucosa with herpes simplex virus. It primarily affects the genitals and perineal area. In males, it commonly occurs on the foreskin, glans penis, and coronal sulcus. In females, it is often seen on the labia majora, labia minora, vaginal opening, and cervical opening. Less commonly, it can also affect areas around the anus, buttocks, and groin.

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Written by Luo Hong
Dermatology Department
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Is blood testing for genital herpes accurate?

Genital herpes testing, blood tests generally reflect antibodies, which have a certain window period. If genital herpes has just occurred, and blisters have just formed, it is very possible that the antibodies are still negative, but the disease has already manifested. Or, the genital herpes may have healed, but the antibodies are positive. Therefore, blood tests can generally only diagnose past infections and are not very accurate for current infections. Thus, the best method for testing genital herpes is to collect blister fluid for DNA testing using PCR methods when blisters are present. This approach is the most accurate, while blood tests can only serve as a reference.

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Written by Zhai Yu Juan
Dermatology Department
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Can people with genital herpes eat seafood?

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease caused by herpes simplex virus infection. The transmission routes mainly include sexual contact, close living contact, and mother-to-child transmission. Clinically, genital herpes primarily presents as clusters of erythema and blisters on the external genitals, with local burning and stabbing sensations. Initial outbreaks of genital herpes may include significant systemic symptoms such as fatigue and fever. After diagnosing genital herpes, antiviral medications like acyclovir are the first choice. In terms of diet, it is necessary to avoid spicy and irritating foods, pay attention to rest, and enhance immunity. Eating seafood is not a problem and does not affect the recovery and prognosis of genital herpes.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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What does it mean when blisters appear on a man's reproductive organ?

Blisters in the male genital area are mostly genital herpes. This is caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus type 2 and is clinically a sexually transmitted disease. It is generally contracted through direct sexual contact. Once this disease occurs, it is generally not possible to completely eradicate it, and the virus will be carried for life. During an outbreak, antiviral medications can be used for treatment, such as taking oral acyclovir tablets and applying acyclovir ointment. Recovery generally takes about a week. However, recurrences can occur if immunity decreases or if one consumes spicy and irritating food. Some patients may trigger the disease with every sexual encounter, so it is essential to maintain proper dietary and lifestyle habits. (Use medication under the guidance of a doctor)