Genital herpes: types, causes, symptoms, genital herpes in men, women, children, pathogens, treatment, ointments for herpes

Genital herpes was first mentioned in the notes of Louis IV's personal doctor.
This disease in those years was called the “disease of kings,” although it was found not only in monarchs, but also in the entire retinue, which to some extent indicates the peculiarities of the morals that reigned in the palaces at that time. Even then, the external symptoms of this disease were described quite accurately, but they did not know how to get rid of it. The virus has quite successfully “survived” to this day - today herpes infection is one of the most common and socially significant human viral infections in the world. Modern doctors have learned to deal with the manifestations of genital herpes, but so far no one has invented a drug that would remove it from the body once and for all. The inability to get rid of the virus does not mean that you can refuse treatment. On the contrary, all women who are faced with this disease need a clear treatment plan using an effective remedy for “genital” herpes.

Symptoms and routes of transmission of herpes virus infection
How to avoid complications during pregnancy
How to choose a medicine and what do interferons have to do with it?
World standard of treatment
Suppositories, gel and ointment for herpes virus infection

The appearance of clinical signs of genital herpes (GG) is caused by herpes simplex viruses (HSV) of both types I and II. But the second type of virus is most common. It causes a DNA virus that belongs to the huge family Herpesviridae, which causes the well-known “cold” on the lips, warts on the hands and other unpleasant dermatological symptoms.

The virus is not as harmless as most people think. For example, few people know that it can lead to vision problems. In many countries, herpes infection ranks first in the frequency of visual pathologies caused by viral infection. This virus causes the development of keratitis, which is expressed by redness and irritation of the eye mucosa, which subsequently, in the absence of adequate treatment, can lead to corneal blindness.

A herpetic infection that affects the reproductive system can also cause a lot of harm. HH is a chronic, relapsing viral disease that is most often transmitted during sexual intercourse. But there are also other ways of transmitting the disease, including household ones - for example, through personal hygiene items shared with an infected person.

Self-infection is also possible when an infected person who has a rash, for example, on the lips, transfers the infection to the genitals with his hands. A child becomes infected from a sick mother vertically, i.e. during childbirth and in contact with a woman’s birth canal.

According to WHO world statistics, over the past decades, the number of cases of HH detection has been increasing at a very high rate in all countries of the world, including countries in Europe, America and Asia. The recurrent course of the disease, when symptoms disappear and then reappear, can significantly worsen a person’s quality of life and pose a serious medical problem.

The virus is especially dangerous for women who are planning to have a child, because HH has a great impact on the course of pregnancy and fetal development.

Symptoms of genital herpes

Herpes virus types 1 and 2 cause classic symptoms of the disease:

painful rashes in the form of bubbles with clear liquid, which are concentrated in groups on the skin, on the oral mucosa, genitals, pubis, buttocks, and anus;
when ulcers form, they burst and fluid flows out;
After the bursting ulcers begin to dry out, severe pain is felt, and the ulcers may bleed.

Often people ignore the initial stage - redness, itching and swelling. It is at this stage that treatment of the disease is most effective.

Side effects and contraindications

Oxolinic ointment is well tolerated in most cases, with the exception of individual intolerance. When using, a slight and short-term burning sensation is allowed. If there are lesions on the skin, then this feeling may intensify slightly.

There are no exact and confirmed safety facts for pregnant women. However, as a result of many years of practice in using Oxolinic ointment and medical observations, prescribing the medicine is quite acceptable. Although in any case, treatment is carried out under the supervision of a doctor.

Genital herpes in men

In men, the second type of virus is most common. When engaging in oral sex, approximately 24 percent have type 1 herpes. More often it is a combination of two types of herpes simplex.

The disease in men is characterized by rashes in the penis, testicles, and anus.

During the period of weakening of the body, the virus manifests itself in rashes. And in a latent form it occurs as a chronic pathology. It gradually affects the autonomic and central nervous system, the mucous membranes of the urethra. And when the process is generalized - the liver, brain and other organs.

Herpes appears 2-4 days after infection. It could be:

slight increase in temperature;
general malaise, weakness;
pain and aches in the joints and muscles may be observed;
there may be tingling and burning of the skin in the groin area;
painful urination;
the appearance of a pimple or group of pimples on the head of the penis or scrotum.

If no other infection occurs, the symptoms disappear on their own.

The virus is transmitted to a partner through sexual contact - oral, anal or classical. Infection can occur not necessarily when there is a rash on the skin, but also during the asymptomatic period of the disease.

A man also becomes infected from a sick woman, even if she has no symptoms of the disease. The virus is present in vaginal secretions and urine, as well as in saliva. If a woman has herpes on her lips (type 1), it can be transmitted to a man through oral sex, and the rash will appear on the penis.

Answers to frequently asked questions on venereology:

How to prepare for an appointment with a venereologist?
How to get tested for sexually transmitted diseases?
What tests can be done by a venereologist at the clinic?
What symptoms should you consult a venereologist for?
What diseases does a venereologist treat?
What diagnostics can a venereologist perform in your clinic?
How to call a venereologist at home?
Venereological care at home
Venereological care in the clinic
What equipment does the venereologist use in our clinic?
How to make an appointment with a venereologist?

Oxolinic ointment

It is natural that many people faced with a dangerous viral infection have questions about whether oxolinic ointment helps against herpes and how effectively. It is necessary to immediately focus on one important point - existing medications do not cure the disease forever. They are only able to block the pathogenic virus.

The pharmacological agent suppresses the active substances of the pathogen contained in the vesicular formations. The main active ingredient of liniment is oxolin. It suppresses the activity of not only herpes, but also other viral diseases, which indicates its versatility.

Each pathogen consists of special acids. Oxolin quickly blocks them, thereby eliminating the possibility of subsequent spread of infection to healthy cells.

Release form and composition

The only form of release of the medication in question is ointment. Pharmacology produces 2 types of medicine:

liniment (3%) for local external application;
composition (0.25%) for local nasal use.

The two compositions differ solely in the concentration of the active substance, as well as the preferred location of application. For treating the skin, a 3% composition is more suitable. Nasal liniment is intended for use in areas close to the mucous membrane - the area around the eyes, the conjunctival sac.

In pharmacies there are drugs whose name simply says “Oxolin 3”, without the image of a percentage icon. This is considered the norm, because most patients and doctors are accustomed to this established concept.

Oxolinic ointment for nasal use
The medication is sold in aluminum tubes. For 3% of the composition these are packages of 10, 25 and 30 g, as for nasal products, they are presented in 30, 25, 10 and 5 g tubes. Liniment has a thick and viscous consistency with a predominant grayish-white hue.

The main active ingredient is oxoline, the full name of which is dioxotetrahydroxytetrahydronaphthalene. The auxiliary element in this compound is purified petroleum jelly.

pharmachologic effect

The peculiarity of oxolin is its pronounced virucidal effect. The actual chemical in question disrupts the integrity of the virus cells by damaging their membrane. Then the “blow” is applied to the active acids of the pathogen, which ultimately makes it possible to stop the disease.

The drug has virtually no side effects, and when applied to the mucous membrane or pathogenic areas of the epidermis, it does not cause irritation or allergic reactions.

The effectiveness of the ointment as a therapeutic agent has been confirmed:

In the early stages of the disease, it eliminates burning and itching from the skin. The use of liniment before the formation of characteristic “bubbles” eliminates the risk of violating the integrity of the epidermis.
The thick consistency “dries out” the epithelium, causing a dry crust to form on its surface.
The use of medication for the prevention of disease (with general weakening of the body, chronic stress, malaise and lack of sleep) is encouraged.

Since the remedy in question fights all viral infections, it is useful to use during ARVI.

Indications for use

Based on the concentration of the main components, the ointment is used for different purposes. If we consider the most common form of the medicine (3% ointment), then it has the following indications for use:

herpes simplex;
lichens of scaly, vesicular and shingles type;
gum disease, stomatitis;
condylomas, warts and other manifestations of papilloma virus activity;
psoriasis (with complex therapy);
Dühring's dermatitis.

Scaly lichen on the head
Nasal ointment (0.25%) is prescribed for the prevention and treatment of such diseases and complications:

viral eye diseases;
rhinitis;
prevention of ARVI.

In the case of influenza, the composition is used exclusively for preventive purposes; it is not suitable for the treatment of an active illness.

Contraindications and side effects

The only contraindication to the use of the medication is individual intolerance to the active substance or auxiliary components of the ointment. Doctors recommend avoiding the use of oxolinka during pregnancy, just like other medications.

Oxolinic ointment can cause itching, burning and redness in the area of application

With genital herpes, liniment can cause itching, local redness in the area where the drug is applied, and burning. These side effects are short-lived and go away without any intervention from the patient. With herpes on the lips, the side symptoms are similar; a blue “pattern” often appears, which can be easily washed off with plain water. As an exception, liniment can provoke local allergic dermatitis.

We recommend

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Dangers when using oxolinic ointment

The use of the antiviral agent in question is not dangerous to the patient’s health, regardless of his condition. The drug is indicated for pregnant women because it does not accumulate in the body and is quickly eliminated naturally.

Oxolinic ointment is fraught with a number of dangers when used for children

When it comes to using a pharmaceutical product by a child, the following dangers must be remembered:

Children often have narrow nasal openings, and therefore it is important to administer the medication in small doses;
the middle ear and nasal canal in babies are located in close proximity to each other, and therefore, together with the ointment, the infection can spread to healthy organs, which is often recorded with a viral runny nose;
while inhaling, the child may unconsciously “pick up” the ointment, and this can lead to blockage of the respiratory passages.

Before using oxolinic ointment, it is important to carefully study the instructions and strictly follow the instructions.

Genital herpes in women

Infection occurs mainly through unprotected sexual contact with a sick man. Moreover, it is possible to get the virus through oral and anal sex. It is possible that the virus can be transferred by hands to the genitals.

If a woman has herpes, rashes are observed on:

labia, groin area, buttocks;
in the vestibule of the vagina;
in the perineum;
on the walls of the vagina, on the cervix;
on the rectal mucosa.

Women become infected with herpes more often than men, since there are more accessible areas covered with mucous membrane. It is not necessary that the man have clinical manifestations of the disease in the form of rashes. The virus is found in semen and urine.

Herpes in women can cause early and late miscarriages and damage to the fetus during pregnancy.

Herpes of the bladder and urethral canal is also found. When the disease worsens, urination is very painful and bloody. May be accompanied by bladder pain and fever.

The pathological process may involve the mucous membrane of the rectum (cracks form), pain in the pelvis and in the area of the projection of the uterus, damage to the ovaries (symptoms of irritation of the pelvic nerve coupling). More often, such manifestations occur before or immediately after menstruation.

The nature of the disease is not always determined and recognized. Sometimes women are treated with antiviral and antibacterial drugs to no avail and for a long time.

“Cuckoo” or nasal lavage using the Proetz fluid movement method

A method developed by American otorhinolaryngologist Arthur Proetz more than a century ago. For many years it was used by ENT doctors to treat acute diseases of the nose and paranasal sinuses.

Russian ENT doctors prescribe “cuckoo” for almost any patient complaint, from acute rhinitis and sinusitis to acute adenoiditis and eustachitis. Washing technique: the patient lies on his back (less often sits), an antiseptic solution is pumped into one half of the nose, and removed from the other using suction. During the procedure, he is asked to pronounce the word “cuckoo” to reduce the likelihood of the solution getting into the throat and larynx (this causes the soft palate to rise, closing the nasopharynx). However, there is still a high risk of liquid entering the respiratory tract, especially in children who do not always understand what is required of them and behave restlessly.

Due to the creation of negative pressure in the nasal cavity, “cuckoo” can be traumatic for the inflamed mucous membrane of the nasal cavity, and if there is severe swelling in the nose and nasopharynx, it can be painful for the ears.

The use of “complex compounds” for rinsing is less preferable than saline solution. Antiseptics can additionally dry out the inflamed mucous membrane of the nasal cavity. Adding antibiotics to the solution also does not provide a therapeutic effect (in “cuckoo” it is often the reserve antibiotic dioxidine; its side effects are dangerous: experimental studies have shown that it has a mutagenic and damaging effect on the adrenal cortex). The addition of hormonal drugs such as dexamethasone or hydrocortisone is also not justified - there are more suitable hormones for use in the nasal cavity (mometasone, fluticasone, budesonide, etc.). If indicated, these sprays can be successfully used; however, they have low bioavailability, that is, they act only in the nose, without having a systemic effect on the body and without significant side effects.

It has been proven that nasal rinsing with positive pressure (Dolphin balloon, Neti pot) is more effective. Such rinses are especially effective for allergic rhinitis and chronic sinusitis.

Important to know : in acute bacterial sinusitis, it makes sense to discuss the use of oral antibiotics only. Neither topical antibiotics nor local antiseptics are indicated, even as an adjunct to treatment.

Genital herpes in children

Children are very susceptible to herpes. A child born from a sick mother runs the risk of contracting herpes at birth. The child's eyes, mouth, and nose are most susceptible. Infection at birth occurs in 40 percent of cases.

Intrauterine infection of the fetus, which more often ends in the death of the child, cannot be ruled out.

The child is at risk of infection during kisses from adults, as well as when they lick the baby's pacifier.

A child is susceptible to the disease both in kindergarten and at school if there are sick children. It has been proven that the herpes virus can even be transmitted through airborne droplets.

Still, genital herpes spreads more often through sexual contact, and the household contact route is not very common. Although the virus easily tolerates low temperatures, it lives in the external environment, outside the human body, for no more than 6 hours.

Teenagers are at risk of becoming infected through unprotected sex.

If herpes is not treated, it causes damage to internal organs.

Herpes in a child manifests itself mainly as rashes on the nose, lips, and neck. But it can also become widespread during an exacerbation, causing myocarditis, meningitis, chronic bronchitis and other inflammatory pathologies of internal organs.

It is possible that herpetic rashes may appear on the genitals of children. In boys - on the penis and scrotum, in girls - on the labia and vagina.

In children under one year of age, herpes occurs in three forms:

Generalized - the genitals are affected, rashes are observed on the genitals and in the area of the inguinal folds, body temperature rises. There is a high probability of death, urgent medical attention is required.
Localized. Possible rash in a separate area, swelling of the affected area. Bubbles can be on the genitals, on the cornea of the eye. If the eye is affected, blindness may occur.
Brain damage. During the first weeks of life, this form of the disease can cause body temperature up to 40 degrees, severe vomiting and convulsions. Next - loss of consciousness and coma. Up to 50 percent of babies die. If help is provided on time, treatment can take up to 6 months; the signs of genital herpes disappear.

Genital herpes in children often manifests itself as rashes in the nasolabial area, but also on the genitals.

Suppositories, gel and ointment for herpes in the intimate area

Correction of IFN deficiency in herpes and the strategy of combining acyclic nucleosides and interferon alpha-2b are recognized by the medical community as reasonable and most effective, which is reflected in clinical recommendations.iii It is necessary to use not only local, but also systemic interferon therapy to restore local and systemic immunity in order to prevent the development of inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs, because herpes viruses can cause asymptomatic inflammation of the uterus and its appendages, which subsequently increases the risk of infertility.

One of the drugs used to treat herpes is VIFERON, an antiviral and immunomodulatory drug that has a number of unique pharmacological properties.

The drug contains interferon alpha-2b, which helps block the proliferation of viruses, and also helps to correct the body’s own immunity. VIFERON is available in the form of suppositories, ointments and gels. It has been scientifically proven that the release form provides the drug with unique pharmacodynamic characteristics, and the presence of highly active antioxidants, vitamins E and C, makes it possible to enhance the antiviral activity of interferon. To treat herpesvirus infections in adults, suppositories are used in a dosage of 1,000,000 IU, and in pregnant women - 500,000 IU.

Thus, in the article “The validity of the use of interferon therapy in the treatment of herpesvirus infection in dermatovenerological practice” it is stated that the inclusion of the drug VIFERON in the complex therapy of herpesvirus infection contributes to:

relief of relapse within 4 days of therapy;
absence of relapses during 9 months of observation in 85% of patients using the drug at a dosage of 1,000,000 IU.iv

It is necessary to maintain the immunity of pregnant women with herpes virus infection throughout pregnancy, therefore, after an intensive course at a dosage of 500,000 IU, it is necessary to carry out preventive courses at a dosage of 150,000 IU until delivery, according to the instructions.

According to a meta-analysis, which included 35 studies involving 4541 patients, including 1981 couples - a pregnant woman and her child, the inclusion of the drug VIFERON in the complex therapy of urogenital infections, including herpesviruses, allows you to quickly cope with clinical symptoms and reduces the risks of pregnancy complications , intrauterine infection, fetal pathology and helps improve the condition of newborns.v

VIFERON Gel and VIFERON Ointment are also used to combat genital herpes. The ointment has a hydrophobic base and is better absorbed on the skin, while the gel has a hydrophilic base and is better absorbed on the mucous membranes. The gel in the form of a strip of no more than 0.5 cm is applied to the previously dried affected surface 3-5 times a day for 5-6 days. The ointment is applied to the affected surface 3-4 times a day for 5-7 days.

The drug VIFERON suppresses the activity of viruses and increases the effectiveness of the body's own immune response to pathogenic microorganisms.

Reference and information material

Author of the article

Belyaev Dmitry Alexandrovich

General doctor

Sources:

i https://cyberleninka.ru/

ii Brochure ed. Radzinsky V.E. “Conclusion of key experts on the results of an interdisciplinary scientific meeting on the topic: “Diagnostics, treatment, prevention of virus-associated diseases: solutions” StatusPraesens, 2020

iii Clinical guidelines “Herpes simplex (HS) in adults.” Developed by the International Association of Infection Specialists (IASOI). Year of approval: 2021. ID: KR492. ICD 10: B00/ A60. https://spnavigator.ru/

iv Gisinger O.A., Shemetova M.A., Ziganshin O.R. Validity of the use of interferon therapy in the treatment of herpesvirus infection in dermatovenerological practice // Attending physician. 2021. No. 5.

v T.V. Kosenkova, I.E. Zazerskaya, K.A. Klikunova. Treatment of urogenital infections in pregnant women and intrauterine infection in newborns with recombinant interferon alpha 2b preparations: results of a meta-analysis. // Issues of gynecology, obstetrics and perinatology. – 2021. – T. 19 – No. 4.

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What does genital herpes look like?

Genital herpes is characterized by rashes on the penis, on the head of the penis, in the vagina, on the urethra, on the cervix, in the anus, on the rectal mucosa.

The incubation period lasts from 2 to 14 days. And then the characteristic herpes blisters are visible:

small in size, grouped together;
filled with a clear liquid that contains a huge number of viruses;
after opening the bubbles, an ulcer forms, which dries out with a crust.

Itching and burning occur during the period of redness and swelling of the skin or mucous membrane. Then the pain intensifies with the formation of erosions and ulcers. The size of the affected skin can vary from 0.5 to 3 centimeters.

There may be many bubbles, or there may be just a few. If bacterial flora joins the ulcers, the wounds become covered with purulent plaque.

No blisters form on the mucous membrane of the vulva, but an ulcer immediately appears.

If herpes rashes form on the cervix or vagina, sexual intercourse becomes impossible due to severe pain.

Symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases:

Discharge from the urethra
Vaginal discharge
Itching in the vagina
Discharge from the genitals
Pain in the scrotum
Pain when urinating
Itching in the urethra
Blood in sperm
Itching of the vulva
Pus on the labia
Burning in the urethra
Perineal pain
Redness of the glans penis
Frequent urination
Itching of the glans penis
Itching of the scrotum
Rectal prolapse
Foreskin rupture

Oxolinic ointment against ARVI

Oxolinic ointment also helps to cope with such an unpleasant manifestation of a viral infection as ARVI.
To treat the disease it is necessary: a medicine is placed in each nasal passage 3 times a day. The duration of treatment varies from 2 to 4 days. Before inserting the next dose of medication, the passage is thoroughly cleared of mucus and residual products. A small amount of the composition is squeezed onto a cotton swab and then distributed over the nostril in a circular motion. The ointment should not be used for longer than 5 days.

What else does oxolinic ointment help with?

How does genital herpes become infected?

Infection with genital herpes occurs mainly during sexual contact, less often through kissing, during childbirth, and breastfeeding.

All types of sex - oral, anal and vaginal - can cause the disease. A condom cannot always protect against infection. Latex sometimes does not cover all areas of herpes rashes. Even if the sick partner does not have rashes, infection can occur through saliva or semen.

You cannot become infected with genital herpes if you:

using a public toilet;
pastel accessories of the patient;
sharing soap, washcloths, towels, cutlery and dishes;
when swimming in the pool and coming into contact with objects.

The partner may not know about his illness and pass it on to others. And if he knows, he can take medications to suppress the virus. In this case, the risk of transmitting the infection to a sexual partner is reduced to a minimum. In any case, it is worth discussing the degree of risk with your doctor.

Incubation period of genital herpes

The insidiousness of the disease genital herpes is that it can remain in a “dormant” state for years and even a lifetime. But at the same time, the patient is able to transmit it to others.

The incubation period of the disease depends on the type of herpes and the state of the person’s immune system.

It can be primary or secondary:

With primary genital herpes, the latent period is up to 10 days. In the primary form, the disease usually occurs with more severe symptoms than subsequent relapses. But only 10 percent of those infected develop rashes on the genitals in the form of small blisters after the initial infection.

After 2-4 days, the clear liquid inside the pimples becomes cloudier, they burst and weeping ulcers form. All the time, from the beginning of skin redness to ulcers, the affected area itches, itches and hurts. The temperature may rise to 38 degrees and the lymph nodes may enlarge. Even if left untreated, all symptoms disappear within 2-3 weeks. A red spot remains at the site of the ulcers, and then the color of the skin returns to normal. Relapse may occur after several weeks or even years.

Chronic or recurrent herpes disrupts the normal functioning of the reproductive and urinary systems and is difficult to treat. Within 3-5 days, rashes may appear on the genitals, or swelling, soreness, or a burning sensation will simply appear. General health worsens, the person feels weak and tired. The inguinal lymph nodes usually enlarge on one side.

A recurrent form of herpes occurs in 30-50 percent of those infected.

Why is herpes on the face dangerous?

We are talking about a virulent disease, which is characterized by the formation of a blistering rash. The main lesions are the nasal mucosa, oral cavity, and genitals. The spread of infection to new areas of the skin is accompanied by burning, itching and unpleasant painful sensations.

The main danger of the viral infection in question is that it actively develops at the expense of healthy cells (contains pathogenic DNA information). During the spread of the disease, herpes destroys the protein structure of cells, makes changes to genes, due to which extensive lesions with characteristic rashes are formed.

The term herpes refers to a group of infectious diseases with characteristic rashes (vesicles).
Ignoring these symptoms is extremely dangerous, because as healthy cells are destroyed, the integrity of the epidermis is compromised, and internal organs are at risk. In this case, immediate intervention by the patient and doctors is required.

Features of the disease

The main reason for the infection is the active activity of 2 types of herpes viruses (HSV-1, 2). These infectious agents are characterized by opportunism (their activity and vital activity depends on the state of the host’s immunity), and they manifest themselves with various accompanying complications.

The peculiarity of the disease lies in its pantropism - the virus attacks all healthy organs and tissues in the human body without exception. This property is responsible for the diversity of herpes symptoms.

The labial type of pathology primarily affects the lips and is considered one of the most “harmless” manifestations of the infection.
Encephalitis and severe forms of pneumonia - complications manifest themselves in the form of inflammation of the brain and lungs.
Herpes viruses are pronounced pathogens, the high activity of which can provoke the occurrence of malignant neoplasms in the affected organism.

In total, doctors distinguish 8 types of herpes, each of which is characterized by special symptoms.

The causative agent of genital herpes

The causative agent of herpes simplex is the herpes virus type 1 (HSV), which is characterized by painful rashes on the skin and mucous membranes in the form of blisters (vasicles). They most often affect the face and upper extremities. But they can also occur on the genitals.

Genital herpes is most often simple herpes of the second type. The virus affects the genitals and manifests itself as itchy rashes.

The pathogen enters the body of a healthy person, mainly through sexual contact, but also through blood transfusions and organ transplants. It is transmitted in 40 percent of cases during childbirth - from a sick mother to the child, as well as through the placenta during pregnancy.

The virus is small in size, penetrates through microtraumas, enters the bloodstream and lymph and immediately integrates into healthy cells, causing their death. Viral particles remain inactive for life in the nerve ganglia of the central nervous system.

In case of facial herpes, the virus lives in the ganglia of the trigeminal nerve, in case of genital herpes - in the ganglia of the lumbosacral spine. From there, the virus spreads to all other areas as the outbreak of infection grows.

The virus is characterized by its multifocality. The causative agent of herpes can concentrate in lymphocytes (blood cells) and lead to disruption of immune mechanisms. This is expressed in frequent colds, decreased performance, and enlarged lymph nodes. Herpes also affects the membranes of the brain, can contribute to the occurrence of meningitis, and causes nervous disorders and vegetative-vascular manifestations.

Factors that provoke genital herpes

The virus does not manifest itself until the human body restrains it due to its protective forces - immunity. The trigger for the growth of the virus are factors such as:

emotional and physical exhaustion;
hypothermia;
period;
surgical interventions;
infectious diseases.

There are cases where the provoking factor was ultraviolet exposure to sunlight.

With good immunity, the virus may not detect itself at all throughout life. In this case, the person acts as a virus carrier and is able to infect others.

Diagnosis of genital herpes

Despite the characteristic rash of herpes, other diagnostic data are also necessary to clarify the diagnosis. These tests also make it possible to determine the type of virus.

The doctor must refer the patient to:

general blood analysis;
blood testing for the presence of hidden infections, primarily herpes viruses;
ultrasound diagnostics of the pelvic organs;
diagnosis of vaginal microflora by examining a vaginal smear.

Sometimes you may need to consult other specialists - a urologist, gynecologist, cardiologist, neurologist.

Other important facts

The ointment itself is a white translucent mass. But upon contact with the mucous membrane and skin, a blue tint may appear. This fact does not in any way affect the effectiveness of the drug. However, the main active ingredient loses its activity when left in a warm place for a long time, so the medicine should be stored in the refrigerator (5-15 0C).

What tests need to be taken for genital herpes

A reliable diagnosis and identification of the type of herpes can be made through laboratory and diagnostic tests.

The analyzes can be divided into two main groups:

isolation and identification of the herpes virus from scrapings from ulcers and blisters, from blood and urine;
determination of antibodies (protective proteins) to the herpes virus in blood serum.

Our laboratory uses a culture method - liquid is taken from herpetic eruptions for examination. She is hooked up to a chicken embryo. By the characteristic lesions of the embryo, one can judge the presence of HSV. The study lasts for two weeks and gives an accurate result about the herpetic nature of the disease.

To determine the type of herpes virus, a proven method is used - polymerase chain reaction. Biomaterial is taken from the rash sites. Within a day or two, a test is carried out, which gives an accurate result of 95-100 percent. The virus can be detected during a relapse. During the period of remission, this method is not used.

Serodiagnosis - the presence of specific antibodies in the blood serum can be determined 4-7 days after infection. After 2-3 weeks the virus reaches its peak. The test gives an idea of the growth of the focus of infection, and also allows you to determine which class of herpes viruses the pathogen belongs to. A similar analysis is carried out twice with an interval of several days.

Treatment of genital herpes

Herpes cannot be cured completely. But it is possible to suppress the growth of the pathogen quite effectively. Medicine has in its arsenal a list of various drugs that allow not only to successfully fight viruses, but also to achieve lasting clinical results. Medicinal effects make it possible to keep the virus under control and prevent it from becoming more active.

There are two main directions in treatment:

use of antiviral drugs based on acyclovir-containing drugs;
complex therapy, including immunotherapy and antiviral effects.

During outbreaks of the disease, creams Zavirax, Vatrex, Acyclovir-Acri, Virolex are usually used. They also come in tablet form.

If the herpes virus has caused immunodeficiency, then means are used to increase the body's defenses. The virus provokes colds, so during the season of respiratory viral infections, drugs are used that promote the production of interferon in the body. These are herbal immunostimulants Immunal, synthetic drugs ArbidolA, ViferonA, Kipferon. It is advisable to use them before the start of the cold season - in autumn weather or spring hypovitaminosis.

For patients suffering from a recurrent form of herpes, the doctor usually prescribes Taktivin, Timalin, Timogen, Myelopid, and so on. In this case, the immunogram is monitored.

Tablet forms of medications are best combined with creams, gels and ointments.

Composition and basic principle of action

Oxolinic ointment is based on a synthetic medicinal substance - oxolinum, which is active against viruses. It has a so-called virucidal effect, which means inactivation of viral strains. And more specifically, the suppression of the nucleic acids included in their composition. This happens through direct contact with a contaminated environment. The drug also prevents the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms inside the infected cell.

The following types of pathogenic microorganisms are susceptible to the effects of oxolin:

influenza viruses;
adenoviruses;
herpes simplex types 1 and 2, Herpes zoster;
Molluscum contagiosum virus, infectious warts.

READ Instructions for use of the drug Famvir

Oxolinic ointment is used in medical practice in two concentrations: 0.25% for application to the nasal mucosa, and 3% as an external dosage form for the skin. When applied, the drug is not completely absorbed into the deep layers of the epidermis. Thus, when used externally, only 5% of the substance is absorbed, and when used on the mucous membrane - no more than 20%.

Oxolin does not accumulate in the body and is excreted in the urine within 24 hours. It should be noted that when applied it is not capable of causing irritation or toxic effects.

Ointments for genital herpes

Ointments are always used to treat herpes. Some of the most effective are:

Acyclovir
, it is prescribed most often, it quickly suppresses the reproduction of the virus, the rash goes away in a short time.
Valtrex
has approximately the same effect as Acyclovir. But it allows Acyclovir to remain in the body longer. Used in more complex situations.
Zovirax
is the same Acyclovir, only its original version. The mechanism of action of the drug is based on breaking the DNA helix of the virus.
Famvir
is a new drug. It is prescribed for recurrent herpetic infections, including in people who have reduced immunity.
Erazaban
. It has a unique antiviral effect, not only destroys the virus, but also prevents it from entering a healthy cell. The cream is applied to the rash, as well as to the area of skin around it. The product prevents the formation of bubbles if applied during the period of skin redness.
Virgan
is a special gel that is used for ophthalmoherpes. It disrupts the formation of viral hereditary material. Its action is similar to Acyclovir.
Oxolinic ointment
is an excellent antiviral agent. It is widely used, including for the fight against herpes.
Herpferon ointment
can be used both for the treatment and prevention of genital herpes. This ointment contains acyclovir, an antiviral agent, as well as interferon, an antiviral protein, the deficiency of which is believed to lead to relapses of the disease.

Creams and ointments are best used at the first manifestations of herpes - at the stage of formation of redness and swelling, when the rash has not yet formed.

Do not touch herpes rashes with your hands. Otherwise, it’s easy to spread the virus into your eyes later.

There will be a risk of severe damage to the cornea. If immunity is greatly reduced, then ophthalmoherpes can cause herpetic encephalitis with a high probability of death.

Diagnosis of sexually transmitted diseases:

Calling a venereologist to your home
Diagnosis of sexually transmitted diseases
Prevention of casual sex
Urethral swab
Cervical smear
Anal swab
Vaginal smear
Sexually transmitted diseases
Tests for STIs
Mushroom tests
Diagnosis of prostate diseases
Prostate massage
Treatment of sexually transmitted diseases
Diagnosis of scrotal diseases
Testing for STIs at home
Ultrasound of the prostate
Ultrasound of the penis
Tests for syphilis
Make an appointment with a venereologist

Analogs

The pharmacological industry offers customers a number of analogues of oxolinic ointment. Some of them have dioxotetrahydroxytetrahydronaphthalene as the active ingredient, like the original, while others have different components.

Analogues of 3% liniment:

Virolex, Bonafton, Alpizarin, Acyclostad, Fenistil, Hyporamin, Gervirax.

The listed compositions are available in the form of creams, ointments and gels. Preparations for nasal administration are presented mainly in the form of capsules and tablets.

Prevention of genital herpes

The main preventive method is personal sexual abstinence, exclusion of casual sexual contacts, and the use of condoms:

If casual sex occurs, it is necessary, without delaying for long, to undergo a full examination for the presence of hidden sexually transmitted infections.
If signs of herpes or other suspicious symptoms appear, you should immediately visit a medical facility, get tested and begin timely treatment.
It is worth excluding situations when you have to use other people’s hygiene products - towels, washcloths; everyone should have their own set of hygiene products, including in the family.
It is not recommended to kiss children on the lips or use someone else's lipstick.
If infection occurs, the patient must take medications to contain the virus and prevent the spread of infection.

Considering that the virus can be in the body undetected, it is worth regularly undergoing preventive tests to make sure that you are not carrying the virus.

It is also worth supporting the body and its immunity. Lead a healthy lifestyle, eat right, maintain intimate hygiene.

There is no 100% guarantee against infection. However, risky factors should be avoided. If casual sex occurs, herpferon ointment should be used for prevention within the next hour or two. And then be sure to get tested for antibodies.

Complication of genital herpes

Genital herpes leads to serious consequences. Once in the body, it causes not only skin rashes and itching. It can cause:

Alzheimer's disease;
meningitis, inflammation of the membranes of the brain;
damage to the pelvic nerves;
miscarriage, fetal death, premature birth;
damage to organs and systems in a newborn child;
blindness;
neuralgic manifestations;
frequent colds, chronic bronchitis, pneumonia;
inflammation of the genitourinary system;
infertility;
inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract;
provokes cystitis, vasiculitis, thrush.

Complications of herpes are difficult to treat. The herpes nature of the disease is difficult to diagnose. Sometimes people do not associate these illnesses with herpes infection.

In order to correctly diagnose the causes of the disease, it is recommended to undergo a herpes test.

If herpes appears frequently and in large numbers, this indicates serious disruptions in the immune system. In such cases, you will need the help of an immunologist.

Which doctor treats genital herpes

Genital herpes is treated by a venereologist. A venereologist is a specialized specialist who deals with the treatment, diagnosis and prevention of sexually transmitted diseases. Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease, as it is transmitted primarily through sexual contact.

In our clinic, the venereologist has extensive experience and specialization in treating adults and children from genital herpes.

In case of existing complications of herpes, he can refer the patient for additional consultation with a neurologist, gastroenterologist, gynecologist, urologist, or proctologist.

A dermatologist, a doctor who treats diseases of the skin and mucous membranes, can also provide assistance. The dermatologist at our clinic has gained extensive experience in treating all major types of herpes.

Where to go for genital herpes

It is necessary to seek diagnosis and treatment of genital herpes at a specialized medical institution. Advantages of seeking help from our clinic:

We accept appointments any day, seven days a week, which is very convenient for working citizens;
There is a service to call a doctor at home (diagnosis, treatment, monitoring of recovery);
an individual approach to each client is carried out;
comfortable and favorable conditions for patients have been created;
has its own laboratory to conduct the necessary laboratory and instrumental studies;
doctors and all medical personnel work in a single team and jointly manage the patient, any issues during treatment are resolved, and if necessary, a medical council is created;
always friendly attitude;
confidentiality.

All clinic services are certified. We are responsible and provide guarantees. Calling a dermatologist to your home for genital herpes

In some cases, the patient cannot visit the clinic in person. Or for some reason he doesn’t want to do this. Our clinic offers a doctor's home call. You can contact us on any convenient day and discuss the doctor’s arrival time.

The service is popular due to a number of advantages:

a doctor’s visit to your home is very convenient for people with limited mobility – pensioners, frail people, disabled people, blind people, post-operative people;
Complete anonymity of treatment is maintained;
at home, the doctor provides the same services as within the walls of the medical institution;
all types of tests can be taken at home, they will be sent to the laboratory in special containers;
a doctor at home can conduct instrumental diagnostics if necessary (ECG, ultrasound, x-ray);
the doctor will talk about prevention methods, recommend what to do to avoid infecting household members through contact, and how to prevent relapse of the disease.

A doctor can come to your home on the same day of treatment.

Sex with genital herpes

If a person knows that he is infected with the genital herpes virus, he, due to moral requirements, should not infect sexual partners and warn about this in advance.

During sexual contact, the risk of infection is highest. If there is an oral form, then it is enough to transmit the virus even through kissing or oral sex. In the vaginal form, the virus is transmitted during sexual vaginal contact. If the patient has rashes in the anus and rectum, there is a high risk of infection during anal sex.

A condom does not always guarantee 100% protection, since the rash area includes areas not covered by latex.

If sexual partners decide to take risks consciously, they should first undergo treatment for the virus and discuss the risks with their doctor. During remission, suppression of the source of infection, infection is unlikely.

If sexual contact occurs without the use of protective equipment, it is recommended to use herpferon, a drug that destroys the virus, within the next 1-2 hours.

How to choose a medicine for herpes in intimate places and what interferons have to do with it

As mentioned above, the HH virus, which can remain “dormant” in the body, can become active when the immune system is weakened. Activation of viruses gives a signal to the body that it is necessary to “turn on” the natural antiviral defense system - interferons (IFNs), which are protein molecules with nonspecific activity. They are able to act on a wide range of pathogens. We can say that interferons act as a universal “security service” of the body, which is activated before other parts of the immune system begin to operate.

However, the body's own interferons may not be enough. Immunological studies show that recurrent HH can lead to a decrease in IFN production.ii Under these conditions, the fight against viruses is significantly more difficult. The spread of the virus increases and the capture of neighboring cells becomes more frequent. Thus, the disease develops more and more actively. In this situation, the use of external interferons is justified. Such therapy will help compensate for the lack of one’s own interferon, as well as bring immunity levels back to normal.

How to prevent getting genital herpes

No one is immune from herpes infection. Most people get the virus in childhood - from their mother and other family members through kissing. This is the herpes simplex virus type 1. It was believed that it could not affect the genitals. However, practice has shown that such a development of events is possible.

It is impossible to prevent infection one hundred percent, but you can try to protect yourself by following a few rules:

during pregnancy planning, undergo a full examination of the body for the presence of herpes of the first and second types;
remain faithful to your sexual partner, do not have casual sexual contacts;
in case of casual sexual intercourse, you should be examined for hidden infections;
do not use other people’s lipsticks, manicure accessories, towels, or razors;
wash hands after contact with rashes;
monitor intimate hygiene;
keep the bathroom clean:
do not kiss a child on the lips, especially during an exacerbation of herpes on the lips.

You should take care of your health, increase your immunity through an active life and good nutrition, and give up bad habits.

Publication date 2019-11-10

Oxolinic ointment for herpes: effectiveness and treatment recommendations