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Episodes Of Genital Herpes
Genital herpes outbreaks take place from time to time. These outbreaks are called episodes. After the first episode, the virus goes to the nerves at the end of the spinal cord and travel back to genitals from time to time. Let us look at how the whole disease progresses after the virus enters the body.
The first time you contract herpes virus, the virus commonly multiplies rapidly. After multiplying, the virus causes the first outbreak of genital herpes generally within a fortnight of contact. This is called the first episode. In most people, the first episode is most severe.
First Episode Of Genital Herpes
Though most people get severe symptoms of herpes in this episode, others may get very mild symptoms during the first episode. The main symptom is appearance of lesions. Blisters filled with fluid or ulcers appear. The blisters rupture into ulcers in few days and crust and heal within a month. After the first episode, the virus travels back to its resting place near spinal column.
Some people get very mild symptoms such as itching and burning. Because of the mild symptoms, herpes may remain undiagnosed in these people. Some people treat herpes symptoms as insect bites, urinary tract infection, yeast infection or some such thing. Our mind tries to wish away the possibility of herpes and comes out with other ideas. This misdiagnosis causes maximum transmission unknowingly. If you get any herpes symptoms repeatedly ask your doctor to get you tested for herpes.
Recurring Episodes Of Herpes
After the first episode, the herpes virus travels back to the nerves at the base of the spine and remains dormant. When it gets triggered, it travels back to the genital area and causes outbreaks and then travels back to the nerves. Think of an aircraft, which remains in its hangar and flies out when instructed and then goes back to the hangar. Herpes virus behaves similarly. As there is no permanent cure of herpes, the virus remains inside the body for life.
Most of the recurring episodes resolve quicker than the first episode. While some people may get upto eight recurring episodes of genital herpes in a year, others may get only one or two episodes. The recurrence depends upon the individual and triggers of genital herpes. Certain factors trigger genital herpes. To avoid repeated occurrence, watch for the triggers and avoid them. Read more about triggers of genital herpes.
Article updated on: May 26, 2008
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