Herpes Symptoms In Men

Herpes symptoms in men will not vary much from symptoms in women. Men can be infected with both herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) or type 2 (HSV-2). There are no statistics that show that there are more men or women infected with the virus. But research shows that men are less likely to pass on the type 2 virus (genital herpes) if they wear a condom. Concerning the intensity of the herpes outbreak, men and and women will experience pretty much the same symptoms and the same degree of discomfort.

Transmission and symptoms of herpes in men

A man can get infected with the virus if he comes in contact with a person who has the virus and experiences symptoms. If the virus is present in someone but it is not causing an outbreak at the moment of contact, chances are that the healthy person will not get the virus. This is because when the virus becomes symptomatic, it will develop into surface rashes, blisters or sores. In the affected area, there are a lot of viral particles which ease the transmission of the virus.

The Good News About Bad News: Herpes Everything You Need to Know

Cold Sores

Cold sores symptoms in men and women are the same. They form around or in the mouth, are painful and itchy and can cause serious discomfort. They appear as blisters filled with fluid which burst and cause small sores. The first outbreak will usually be a lot more severe than the following outbreaks.

Genital Herpes

When the HSV-2 infection occurs, also known as genital herpes, things start to differ from men to women because of the differences in anatomy. Genital herpes in men will present itself as small blisters or sores, usually on the tip of the penis. This is why men, if wearing a condom during intercourse, are less likely to pass on the virus, even if they have sexual contact during an outbreak. Women will experience the sores or blisters anywhere around the genital area and have more chances of transmitting it to a partner. Even so, it is advisable for both men and women to refrain from sexual contact during outbreaks due to high risks of contagion.

Treatment

Treatment of herpes symptoms in men and women is the same. Antiviral medication should be administered to prevent outbreaks and manage symptoms. There is no permanent cure for the herpes simplex virus – only the symptoms can be managed and treated. Along with the antiviral treatment, there are also topical treatments available.

They are usually ointments that are applied directly on the blisters or sores in order to relieve the discomfort. Home remedies like ice, cold tea bags and baking soda can be applied.

The virus also relies on a certain amino acid called arginine to replicate. Try refraining from arginine-rich foods like nuts, seeds, coconut, chocolate, brown rice and peanut butter. Lysine is another amino acid that inhibits arginine in the organism and you should eat a lot of foods containing it like: eggs, most vegetables or fruits, papaya, tomatoes, fish, beef, lamb and chicken. Read more about herpes and diet.

A healthy lifestyle is crucial in order to keep a strong immune system that will have a chance at holding back the virus from causing an outbreak.

"Achieving A Healthy Lifestyle For Women's Health and Fitness"