Genital Herpes
Posted by admin in Health on 28-11-2008

Herpes is the most common sexually transmitted virus in the United States. In fact, approximately 300,000 new cases of genital herpes are reported each year. The condition is caused by the herpes simplex virus, which is transmitted through vaginal or anal sex.
Within 20 days of exposure to the virus, a herpes victim usually experiences a period of pain and itching in the genital area lasting anywhere from two hours to one week. Immediately after this period, small red bumps begin to appear on the genital area, and urination may become painful. Within four days of developing, the red bumps become fluid-filled blisters that soon rupture and become ulcers. Three or four days after rupturing, the ulcers scab over and heal. During an initial outbreak, the victim may experience flu-like symptoms that disappear once the ulcers have healed. The genital area may be tender until the infection clears.
Unfortunately, the condition is not curable the virus remains in the victim’s bloodstream for the rest of his or her life. The virus may cause recurrent infections over the course of the victim’s lifetime. In fact, up to 75 percent of genital herpes victims have a recurrent infection within three months of the initial outbreak. While the cause of herpes flare-ups is unknown, there is a higher rate of outbreaks among people with high stress levels or weakened immune systems.
Signs and Symptoms
- Pain or itching on the skin of the genital area, anus, or buttocks
- Small, painful blisters or bumps on the affected area
- Swollen lymph nodes in the groin area
- Headaches
- Fever
Conventional Medical Treatments
A gynecologist or physician can diagnose genital herpes through a physical examination and culture. Unfortunately, there is no cure or vaccination for genital herpes. Treatment is limited to management of symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe an anti-viral drug, such as acyclovir, to speed the healing of ulcers. Acyclovir, used long-term, can reduce the number of recurrences.
Complementary and Alternative Treatments
Nutrition and Supplementation
During a breakout, eat lightly. Short fruit fasts (not citrus fruits) with lots of pure water and herbal teas can help. Take advantage of the friendly bacteria found in plain organic yogurt, or supplement your diet with acidophilus.
Follow this daily supplement program:
- L-Iysine (500 to 1000 mg 3 times daily with water or juice on an empty stomach)-in hibits the growth of the herpes virus
- vitamin A (50,000 IU; do not exceed 8000 IV daily if you are pregnant)-prevents the spreading of infection
- vitamin B complex (50 mg or more 3 times daily)-works with lysine to prevent out-breaks
- vitamin C (5000 to 10,000 mg)-prevents sores and inhibits growth of the virus; use buffered form
- bioflavonoids (30 to 60 mg in divided doses)-works with vitamin C
- zinc (50 to 100 mg, not to exceed 100 mg total from all supplements)-boosts immune function; use a chelate form
- garlic (as directed on label)-stimulates the immune system
- vitamin E (600 IU)-prevents spread of the infection; use emulsion form
(Consult your health care provider regarding the duration of treatment)
Aromatherapy
The essential oil of tea tree applied to the affected area helps heal the external sore. Use only one drop per application. Bergamot and eucalyptus oils are also helpful.
Ayurvedic Medicine
An Ayurvedic practitioner may suggest taking an herbal mixture (shatavari, guwel sattva, kamadudha, and neem) twice daily after meals to pacify genital herpes. Practitioners also suggest taking tikta ghee on an empty stomach or triphala in warm water every night. Tikta ghee also may be applied directly to the affected area.
Also Read
http://www.webmd.com/


