Anal Herpes: Symptoms and Treatment. Prevention & More.
The Genital Herpes virus is estimated to be infecting 491 million people between 15 and 49 (13%) around the world, according to the World Health Organization ( WHO).
Although many people do not experience symptoms, the virus is still contagious and can be passed to others through direct contact.
Unprotected sex can increase your chances of getting a sexually transmitted disease ( STI).
Anal herpes can be transmitted to others through anal sex.
There is no cure for your symptoms, but many treatment options can help you manage them.
This article will explain what anal herpes is. I will discuss symptoms, treatment and prevention. I will also discuss when you should see a doctor.
What is Anal Herpes?
Herpes is a contagious viral infection that affects nearly half of American adults younger than 50.
HSV-1 is the herpes simplex virus that affects the mouth. HSV-2 affects the genitals and anus and is spread by close, direct and intimate contact.
Herpes can lead to painful sores, blisters, and even ulcers in the area of infection, most often around the mouth or genitals. However, some people may experience mild symptoms or none at all.
This can lead to problems as they may not be aware that they could be exposing others.
Anal Herpes Symptoms
Anal herpes symptoms are similar to many other conditions, such as haemorrhoids or Syphilis. This can make it difficult for doctors to diagnose.
If you notice any of these signs, it is important to consult your doctor.
- Red bumps and painful, non-colourless blisters
- Persistent pain in the anal canal around the anus
- You are aching for the anus
- Ulcers that form at the original site of blisters
- Modifications to your bowel habits
- These are scabs that result from ruptured or bleeding ulcers
Symptoms of anal herpes usually appear within two to 10 days after the virus enters your body.
The severity of the first outbreak can often be greater than that of subsequent ones.
The following symptoms may be indicative of an outbreak:
- Fever
- Chills
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Muscle pain
Anal Herpes Treatment
The most effective treatment for anal herpes is antiviral medication, such as Acyclovir and famciclovir.
Although these medications can’t cure HSV-2, they can reduce severity and frequency.
They also reduce the time it takes for the virus to develop, which increases the chance of the virus being transmitted to a partner.
Is Anal Herpes contagious?
HSV-2 is contagious. It is transmitted almost exclusively through genital-to-genital contact during sex.
Anal herpes can be contracted from sexual contact with infected persons.
Although you are more likely to transmit the virus to others if symptoms are present, it is still possible to transmit it to others even if there are no symptoms.
Can Anal Herpes Be Cured?
HSV is a fatal illness. The virus can remain in nerve cells for life. Antiviral medication can help manage symptoms.
Although the virus is not usually life-threatening or dangerous, it can be dangerous. Regular STD checks and safe sex should be practised to ensure your safety.
Certain circumstances can cause recurrences.
Prevention
People with genital HSV infections should avoid sexual activity.
Although the virus is more common in this situation, it can still be transmitted to others even if no symptoms are present.
The following steps can be taken to reduce your risk of contracting HSV-2:
- Use barrier contraception whenever you engage in sexual activity (vaginal or anal, oral sex), such as condoms
- Regular sexual health screenings to check for STIs
- If you’re in a relationship, ensure that all your partners undergo routine sexual screenings.
- Avoid all sex
