The stages herpes outbreaks can be difficult and painful. However, with understanding and knowledge, outbreaks can either be stopped altogether or at least have the most intense symptoms minimized. Herpes outbreaks can be best explained by detailing the stages of the virus and the symptoms of an outbreak.
The herpes simplex 2 virus (genital herpes) is transmitted through sexual contact. After the virus enters the body through the soft mucous membranes of the genital area it is quite possible that it may lie dormant for months or years. While the virus is in a dormant state in a bundle of nerves at the base of your spine - called ganglia - it is impossible for your immune system to recognize it, and this is what makes the HSV2 virus so elusive. Genital herpes has no cure.
After the virus is activated (and science is not exactly sure what activates the symptoms of genital herpes; possible suggestions are unresolved anger, high levels of stress, exposure to ultraviolet light, and/or decreased immunity), it will start traveling along nerve paths in your genital area and begin the process of what may become a full herpes outbreak. Initial symptoms at the outbreak site can be tingling, slight burning and intense itching.
Your immune system will sense the virus in your body and begin to fight it almost immediately. You can know this to be true by the immune fighting responses your body will experience, such as swollen lymph nodes, muscle aches, headaches, and possibly fever. Often (with a little boost) your immunity can abort the attack or the severity of the herpes outbreak can be decreased. A few recommended immune supplements would be Vitamin C, zinc, oil of oregano and/or panax ginseng.
You can expect a cluster of blisters, a rash, or a single sore or lesion should the HSV2 virus develop into a full outbreak. Possible pain or swelling is also reported. Experience has told us that herpes outbreaks are rarely the same between carriers, and that symptoms can drastically differ between both duration and intensity of symptoms. Itching and burning are the two most commonly reported symptoms.
As the outbreak starts to heal you will feel a lessening in symptoms (swelling, pain, redness) and a crust may form over the sore or outbreak to protect the new skin forming underneath. It is important to let the outbreak heal on its own and not to interfere in anyway. It is very rare for any scarring or residual effects to linger after the complete healing of a herpes outbreak.
Looking to find information on the web for the female symptoms of herpes? Visit www.theherpesblog.com to find the best advice on vaginal herpes.
