What Is Herpes Simplex 1
Michalis 'BIG Mike' Kotzakolios

Defined Tag: Herpes Simplex 1.

There are numerous forms of herpes in the world, but for the purposes of this article herpes simplex 1 will be almost exclusively dealt with.

Generally when one hears the term herpes simplex 1 their first thought should be of cold sores, which is the main manifestation of this disease, and normally appears on the lips. This strain of the herpes virus is closely related to a second type, simplex 2, which attacks the body in basically the same manner. Historically, the great difference has been locality.

While herpes simplex 1 has long been known to inhabit the lips, HSV-2 usually takes up residence with the human genitalia. However, more and more gynecologists and dermatologists are now seeing an increase in herpes simplex 1 on the genitalia. This is most likely due to an increase in oral sex in western culture and a lack of awareness that cold sores can and do spread to other parts of the body.

With that said, it should be noted that both forms of HSV can are highly contagious and can spread to any part of the external body, that is, anywhere on the skin, as well as on and in mucus membranes, such as the inner part of the mouth, the nose, the anus, the ears, and even the eyes. A person can even infect him or herself by touching an infected area and then touching another part of the body without first washing the hands.

The possible different signs of contagion are numerous and specific only to the individual. As everyone has different genes and immune systems, so too does the virus affect everyone differently. Bleeding, cracking of the skin, pain, ache, pustule formation, and sores are all a part of the standard marks of this disease, whether on the lips or the genitalia.

Sadly, there is no concretely known cure for this ailment -at either zone of affliction. There are a few companies now claiming herbal remedies which are said to destroy the herpes simplex 1 and 2 viruses, though the standard western medical community has yet to confirm or deny the effectiveness of such claims. As for western medicine, it has offered at least 3 medicines known to eliminate the pain and other symptoms almost permanently, though without completely eliminating the virus itself (and from a strict medical regimen over a period of time).

Prevention is the best way to avoid contamination of this disease. Conventional means of preventing STD's, sexually transmitted diseases, is effective; primarily, condoms for men and for women (the latter being more effective at this due to a wider surface ratio that is covered). Likewise, it is best to inform any sexual partners of the dangers of oral sex during an outbreak of HSV-1 in the form of cold sores on the lips.

To further stem such contagion, kissing people with cold sores should be strictly verboten. As well, discussing this information amongst friends and family is one the most effective way to educate others and in turn, to learn more.

BIG Mike is a well known author, developer and Adsense expert as well as the owner of Niche Maniacs - a unique Adsense Marketing System designed to build long-term passive income streams from Adsense, YPN, Chitika and other PPC services.