If you are an adult, you probably have or at least have been exposed to the herpesvirus. It is believed that the herpes virus is the most common virus in the world and that millions of people have some strain of the herpes virus. But if that were true, wouldn’t you see evidence of that infection? Actually, many people who have the herpes virus don’t even know that they have it. It’s entirely possible to have the herpes virus without exhibiting one single symptom.
The herpes virus manifests itself in several ways. The most common symptoms of the herpes virus include Oral Herpes outbreaks in the form of cold sores or Fever Blisters, genital herpes outbreaks in the form of lesions, rashes and swollen lymph nodes, and fever, aches and pains similar to the flu.
But the herpes virus can also be dormant and a person infected with one or more strains of the herpes virus may not show any symptoms at all. Called asymptomatic, the dormant herpes is much more common than most people realize. Typically, the virus will manifest itself sooner or later with one or more of the common symptoms. But even then, some people may not realize they have the herpes virus.
One way to protect yourself from acquiring the herpes virus or from having an outbreak of Herpes Symptoms is to educate yourself on the herpes virus and the treatments currently available. If you are showing oral herpes symptoms, there are lots of over the counter, prescription and herbal remedies available. There is no cure, but you can lessen the duration and severity of cold sores and fever blisters.
The same is true of genital herpes though there are some new prescription medications on the market that offer relief from outbreaks of the herpes virus – the first of its kind.
The herpes virus spreads very easily. This is the reason so many people have the herpes virus and the reason it continues to spread. You may inadvertently share the virus with someone when you didn’t even know you had it. While that kind of transfer probably can’t realistically be avoided, you can protect yourself from active cases – the times the virus is most easily spread. Don’t kiss or share silverware or glasses with anyone who has cold sores or fever blisters. Being aware of the herpes virus can help you protect yourself and others.