All Services
A common viral infection yielding painful blisters or ulcers around the mouth/face or genital area.
What is it?
Herpes is a prevalent and highly contagious condition, marked by intermittent flare-ups of small, painful blisters filled with transparent fluid. These blisters can usually be found on or around the mouth or genitals but can emerge anywhere on the body. Herpes can also cause flu-like symptoms including fever, aches and swelling of lymph nodes.
It's important to know that after infection, the herpes virus remains in your body forever. This can result in flare-ups of symptoms, particularly under stress, infection from another virus or bacterial or during menstruation. Some patients even experience flare ups of blisters after localized stress on the body, like a sunburn.
The culprits behind herpes are two types of viruses: Herpes Simplex Virus type 1 (HSV-1), chiefly responsible for oral herpes, and Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 (HSV-2), mainly accountable for genital herpes. Most people carrying the virus don't exhibit symptoms, which is why it's frequently transmitted unknowingly. While there is no ultimate cure for herpes, the disease can be controlled, and the recurrences can become less intense and less frequent over time.
How is it treated?
After establishing a diagnosis, your Midwest dermatologist can prescribe topical medications to help with symptoms or antiviral medication to aid in managing outbreaks, reducing the likelihood of transmission and decreasing the severity and duration of the symptoms. We can also provide guidance on lifestyle habits that can provoke flare-ups and education on how to prevent transmitting herpes to others. With the right treatment and management, individuals with herpes can lead completely active and fulfilling lives.
The Midwest Center for Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery is here to help provide you relief. Our board-certified dermatologists are based in Farmington Hills, Shelby Township, Clinton Township, Warren and St. Claire Shores, Michigan.