Herpes Simplex, also known as genital herpes or cold sores, is a disease that can cause recurring blisters in various areas of the body, including the mouth, the face, the genitals, the skin, the buttocks, and the anal area. Many people contract the disease but show no symptoms.
If the patient had contact (hugging, kissing, sexual activity) with someone who has Herpes Simplex, the patient is at risk for Herpes Simplex. Though it is less likely when the sores are crusted over, or when no breakout is apparent, the patient can still contract herpes. Any contact with a known herpes carrier leading to cold sores near a possible entrance area should be cause for testing. Herpes may not show itself when it is first contracted, but a breakout may occur after a fever, the cold, the flu, UV radiation, stress, changes in the immune system, or trauma to the skin. Sometimes there is no reason for the breakout.
A Herpes Simplex Diagnosis is not an easy thing. It oftentimes done by the way the sores look. Clinical diagnosis is oftentimes necessary. A viral culture can be done with the sores have not yet crusted over, and it is suggested you go to a clinic as soon as a patient notices the sores breaking out.
If diagnosis is ever in question, the best thing a patient can do is see a doctor at the first sign of a breakout. After a Herpes Simplex Diagnosis is completed, treatment is possible. Though Herpes can be treated, there is no cure. Regular medicines prescribed by your doctor can treat outbreaks, and after a Herpes Simplex Diagnosis and treatment, outbreaks will slowly become less frequency. The bottom line? Get a test from an approved clinic as soon as possible.