| Asymptomatic viral
shedding: This refers to the period when the
herpes virus is present on the skin surface (for example on areas of the genitals) or
internally (for example, in the vagina) even though there is no pain or signs of blisters
or sores. Genital herpes is often spread to another individual during such a period.
Antiviral treatment:
Medication that stops
a virus from multiplying. In genital herpes, antiviral medication can shorten the duration
of an outbreak, reduce pain and discomfort, and reduce the frequency of outbreaks.
Continuous treatment:
See 'suppressive treatment' below.
Episodic treatment:
Treatment with antiviral medication
that you start to take as soon as you experience the first signs of another outbreak, and
continue for several days. Episodic treatment is not taken in between outbreaks.
HSV:
The Herpes Simplex Virus. Type 1
(HSV-1) usually causes cold sores on the face, and Type 2 (HSV-2) usually causes genital
herpes. However, either type can cause genital herpes.
Primary initial outbreak:
The first outbreak of
genital herpes in people who have never been exposed to the herpes virus before.
Non-primary initial outbreak:
The first outbreak of
symptoms of genital herpes in people who have previously been infected with the other
virus type (either HSV-1 or HSV-2). Non-primary first outbreaks are usually less severe
than primary initial outbreaks.
Preventative treatment
See "suppressive treatment" below.
Prodrome:
The early stage of a herpes
outbreak - before sores appear. During the prodome, there can be symptoms such as itching,
burning or tingling in the area where sores usually appear. There may also be symptoms
such as headache, fatigue and muscle aches.
Recurrent outbreak (or
'recurrence'):
An outbreak of genital herpes that occurs after the first outbreak. Most
people with genital herpes will have recurrent outbreaks, but these tend to be milder.
Suppressive
treatment ("continuous" or "preventative" treatment):
This is continuous antiviral
medication to help reduce the risk of recurrent outbreaks occurring. Suppressive treatment
is sometimes recommended for people with severe, frequent or bothersome outbreaks, and can
prevent or delay up to 80-90 per cent of recurrences.
Trigger factors:
These reduce your body's ability to
fight infection and make you more likely to have a recurrent outbreak. Possible trigger
factors include: stress (for example, illness or surgery), menstruation, skin irritation
(including sexual intercourse), exposure to ultraviolet light, poor nutrition or lack of
sleep.
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