Currently, the herpes simplex virus is among the most common diseases. In accordance with the latest data among the world's population, about 90% are carriers of this viral infection. Infection occurs:
- airborne droplets;
- in the process of direct contact (including sexual intercourse);
- household way (through hygiene items, etc.);
- so-called "vertical" way (from mother to the fetus).
Entered into the body, the virus quickly overcomes the tissue barriers, and, getting into the blood and lymph, spreads through all the internal organs, penetrates into the nerve endings, is introduced into the DNA.
Attention! The asymptomatic form of herpes simplex is considered the most dangerous, since a person who does not suspect about the disease continues to have an active sex life, infecting partners.
Symptoms of infection with the herpes simplex virus
The most common symptom of the disease is herpes simplex - small bubbles on the lips or in the nasolabial triangle, the so-called "cold". Also, rashes may appear on the genitals, hips, in the region of the lower back, etc. The place of localization of the blisters is marked by a sensation of pain, burning, itching.
Also sometimes observed:
- general intoxication of the body (malaise, headache, aches in the joints);
- temperature increase;
- enlarged lymph nodes;
- defeat of the epithelium of the cornea.
If immunity is lowered, the disease can take a recurrent and even chronic character, with various complications (infertility, neuritis, ganglionitis, etc.). Studies conducted by Columbia University scientists have shown that herpes disease can provoke the development of Alzheimer's disease in old age .
Diagnosis of herpes
In the presence of typical signs of the disease, it is enough for a specialist to examine the patient for an accurate diagnosis. If the disease occurs atypically, or the rashes are on mucous surfaces that are inaccessible for examination, scrapings are taken from the pharynx, urethra, rectum, and in women - from the vagina.
Herpes simplex virus analysis includes a study:
- material taken from the rashes;
- blood for the detection of antibodies to the herpes simplex virus.
The method of PCR (polymerase chain reaction), which consists in finding the DNA of a virus in a biological fluid, is becoming increasingly widespread.
Treatment of herpes simplex virus
The question of how to effectively treat the herpes simplex virus is relevant not only to the sick, but also to medicine in general. In fact, at present there is no guaranteed way to treat a viral infection.
Among the most reliable drugs for the treatment of herpes simplex:
- Ointments, tablets, injection solutions Acyclovir, Zovirax , preventing the spread of the virus in the cells of the body.
- Valacyclovir, which reduces the symptoms of the disease, the blocking ability of the virus to reproduce, preventing the transmission of infection on contact.
- Gel, rectal suppositories and solution for intravenous administration of Panavir, eliminating pain, itching and other unpleasant skin sensations.
- Drops of Proteflazide, stopping the replication of the virus, increasing resistance to infection.
- Flavozid syrup, stimulating the production of an interferon by the body, a protein that resists the invasion of viruses into the body.
A certain effect is observed when using traditional medicine. To combat herpes, the following are used:
- lotion with freshly squeezed celandine juice or milkweed;
- lubrication of places with precipitated whipped protein;
- wiping affected areas of the skin and mucous infusion of aspen, alder, wormwood;
- rubbing of skin surfaces covered with herpes vesicles, cut with a bulb or a fig;
- appliqués from grated garlic and potatoes.