• Herpes & Genital Herpes
(A common viral infection that can cause recurring blisters or sores)
What Is Herpes?
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a common viral infection that can affect the:
- Mouth and lips
- Genitals
- Skin
There are two main types:
- HSV-1 — more commonly associated with oral herpes (cold sores)
- HSV-2 — more commonly associated with genital herpes
However, either type can affect either location.
What Does Herpes Look Like?
Typical symptoms may include:
- Small grouped blisters
- Painful sores or ulcers
- Burning, tingling, or itching
- Crusting during healing
- Tender lymph nodes during outbreaks
Some people have mild symptoms or no symptoms at all.
What Is Genital Herpes?
Genital herpes is herpes infection involving the genital or anal area. It spreads through intimate skin-to-skin contact.
Symptoms may include:
- Painful genital sores
- Burning or itching
- Pain with urination
- Recurrent outbreaks
Some patients may mistake outbreaks for:
- Razor bumps
- Ingrown hairs
- Irritation
- Folliculitis
How Is Herpes Diagnosed?
Diagnosis may include:
- Clinical skin examination
- Swab testing from active sores
- Blood testing in selected situations
Testing is often most accurate when lesions are fresh.
How Is Herpes Treated?
There is currently no permanent cure for HSV, but antiviral medications can help:
- Shorten outbreaks
- Reduce symptoms
- Lower transmission risk
- Suppress recurrent outbreaks
Common antiviral medications include:
- Acyclovir
- Valacyclovir
- Famciclovir
Treatment may be:
- Episodic (during outbreaks)
- Suppressive (daily prevention therapy)
Pre-Op Instructions
(Before evaluation or testing)
- Avoid applying heavy creams or ointments before the visit.
- If possible, come in while lesions are still fresh or blistering.
- Avoid sexual contact during active outbreaks.
- Tell us if:
- You are pregnant
- You are immunocompromised
- You have fever or widespread lesions
- You recently started new medications
Post-Op Instructions
(After diagnosis or treatment)
- Take antiviral medication exactly as prescribed.
- Avoid picking or scratching lesions.
- Wash hands after touching affected skin.
- Avoid intimate contact during active outbreaks.
- Use gentle skin care while healing.
Call the office promptly if:
- Eye symptoms develop
- Fever or severe pain occurs
- Lesions rapidly worsen
- You have trouble urinating
- You are pregnant and develop a new outbreak