What Are Genital Herpes Sores & How Are They Diagnosed?

Do you suffer from genital herpes sores? If so, what are you doing to manage them? Genital herpes is a disease that affects more than one in five Americans. It continues to grow rapidly, affecting close to another million people a year. Unfortunately, lack of caution in the bedroom and lack of education about the disease leaves anyone and everyone open to becoming affected.
The herpes virus is broken down into two main types: HSV-1 and HSV-2. Even though the first type generally affects the oral area, both types can still cause a genital herpes sore to appear. However, it is HSV-2 that is the leading cause of outbreaks.
Genital herpes is transmitted when two people engage in sexual activity such as vaginal and anal intercourse, as well as oral sex. Herpes can also be transmitted if broken skin comes in contact with a genital herpes sore. Sores tend to appear between 2 to 10 days after sexual activity. Staying educated about the disease and being aware of the partners you engage in sexual activity with, will allow you to learn how to manage your outbreaks effectively.

If you see a little red bump on your skin, this does not necessarily mean that it's a genital herpes sore. Usually, an outbreak will consist of multiple sores, which will turn into blisters. These blisters will then break open, leading to the healing process, where they scab over. The first outbreak is, in most cases, the most painful.
In a nutshell, genital herpes sores are a group of blisters filled with fluid, on top of an inflamed area of skin. Sometimes, these blisters get mistaken as tiny erosions of the skin, more commonly known as ulcers. Therefore, it is always best to have your doctor examine the affected area to make a proper diagnosis.
Did you know that other areas of your body could be affected by genital herpes? It's true. If you touch a genital herpes sore and then touch another area of your skin, you can spread the disease. It is extremely important to wash your hands after touching a sore. Or, try avoiding contact with sores completely. If you don't wash your hands after touching sores, you could cause oral herpes, and although rare, ocular herpes.
Controlling your outbreaks of genital herpes sores is attainable. Minimizing the risk of spreading it to your partner is possible as well. It is always best to use a condom during vaginal intercourse, even when you're not currently suffering from an outbreak. The disease can spread at anytime, so it is important to take proper precaution, for your partner and for yourself.
Genital herpes sores are nothing to fear. Being a carrier of the disease, just means that you need to take even more precaution when engaging in any type of sexual activity. You can still continue to have a very active and rewarding sex life. With the vast amount of treatment available, you can manage your outbreaks and get on with your life. Take charge and don't let genital herpes control you.