Facial herpes, caused by herpes simplex virus type 1, is common and contracted through close contact. Initial outbreaks are called primary herpes and recurring outbreaks become less severe over time. Antiviral prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and natural remedies can treat symptoms. Prevention is important, as the virus can be transmitted even when a carrier is not experiencing an outbreak.
Herpes simplex virus type 1, known as facial herpes, causes cold sores outbreaks and blisters in and around the mouth, eyes, and throat. It is estimated that up to 80% of the population has the facial herpes virus. Of course, facial herpes differs from genital herpes, which is herpes simplex virus type 2.
Facial herpes is contracted through close contact with an infected person, namely kisses and hugs. Most commonly, children between the ages of 3 and 5 are infected as a result of their close contact with caregivers and other children. In adults, herpes type 1 can be contracted by sharing eating and drinking utensils or by having oral sex with a partner who has genital herpes.
An initial outbreak is called primary herpes and usually occurs within three weeks of being infected. In children, herpes type 1 might present with sores on the gums, throat or lips. There may also be discomfort, but it is often minimal. After an outbreak has subsided, the virus remains and can be expected to recur. Recurring outbreaks, however, will become less frequent and can be treated easily.
Only one in three people show symptoms of herpes at the beginning of the infection. The initial signs of herpes simplex virus type 1 may be limited to a sore throat or fever and are often mistaken for symptoms of the common cold. Itching and swollen lymph nodes are also indicators of an outbreak. After the original outbreak, recurrences will affect those who get facial herpes. Symptoms become less severe over time, and outbreaks occur less frequently.
Facial herpes symptoms are effectively treated with antiviral prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, and natural remedies, although there is no cure or permanent treatment for the virus. Children experiencing oral pain due to infection can be treated with a pain-relieving mouthwash. Topical antiviral creams are available, as are oral medications. Natural supplements such as echinacea, zinc, L-lysine, and aloe vera have also been shown to reduce symptoms.
There are several factors that influence the onset, severity, and treatment of type 1 herpes. Recurrence decreases markedly with age, so facial herpes treatment will be less required over time. Trauma, menstruation, fever, cold and flu, and overall immune system health can also have significant effects on the virus. Each of these elements can increase the likelihood of subsequent outbreaks.
Herpes type 1 rarely causes infections other than facial herpes. It can occasionally cause herpes simplex virus encephalitis, meningitis, or eye herpes. These afflictions are rare but serious. If you experience increasingly severe symptoms, as well as superficial sores and discomfort, you should see a doctor right away.
Preventing herpes type 1 is important, because the spread of type 1 can happen very easily. Avoiding contact with anyone with visible symptoms is the most important step. Those with an outbreak should refrain from sharing utensils, hugging and kissing, or having close contact with others. Infected people also wash clothes and bedding well, avoid using harsh soaps on the skin, and avoid scratching any visible scabs or sores.
Herpes can be transmitted even when a carrier is not experiencing an outbreak. Symptoms do not occur in all carriers, so it can be difficult to ensure a lack of contact with infected people. It is therefore essential to follow all precautionary measures, especially when coming into contact with children.
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