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Total : 480 Questions. Displaying Page : 1 of 24 |
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| Date: |
30-Aug-2008 |
| Question: |
i have oral herpes and have had a cold sore for 4 days now on my lip. The cold sore is healing and now has a scab covering the entire sore and no fluids are leaking out. I gave my boyfriend oral sex forgetting i had the cold sore. i am so worried that he might get genital herpes from me. what are the chances of him catching this from me if the sore was not open? thank you so much |
| Answer - |
Your boyfriend may be at risk for genital herpes from your cold sores because of the unprotected oral sex.
Unprotected oral sex poses a low risk for HIV but other STIs such as Gonorrhoea, Herpes and Syphilis can be transmitted. The risk of HIV transmission through unprotected sex increases if there is contact with body fluids such as semen, vaginal fluids and blood, with the presence of sores and broken skin. Thus, it is advisable to use a condom even for oral sex, especially with someone of unknown status. Condoms, when used correctly and consistently and where there is no breakage or leakage, provide effective protection against STI and HIV. |
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| Date: |
24-Aug-2008 |
| Question: |
I have just contracted genital herpes from my partner. Is herpes a notifiable disease in Singapore? I wish to come forward for tests but I am afraid of having this in my records. Does your clinic offer any tests that can differentiate between HSV 1 and 2 while I am still having an active infection? (I understand that genital herpes due to HSV 1 tend to recur less.) Your speedy reply is much appreciated. |
| Answer - |
In Singapore, STIs like Herpes are notifiable infection (for statistic purpose) under the Infectious Diseases Act but the person's personal particulars such as name, I/C, address, contact numbers will not be made known in the notification.
All medical records including STI screening are kept private and confidential.
Herpes is usually diagnosed at the time of presentation. A specimen from a blister can be sent to the laboratory for viral culture, which is still the current gold standard for diagnosis. A blood test is reliable if it is done by the latest method, which is known as Type Specific Serology Test (HSV TSST) for Herpes but it may not be widely available. This screens for previous exposure to the virus, which can be done 8 weeks after the exposure. All other forms of blood tests have not been known to be reliable.
You may wish to attend the DSC Clinic. |
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| Date: |
13-Aug-2008 |
| Question: |
Hi,
If I have genetal herpes does it mean that I can pass on the virus to someone while kissing them.
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| Answer - |
There is no risk when kissing is done, unless you have oral herpes or cold sores and this is transmittable with kissing. |
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| Date: |
06-Aug-2008 |
| Question: |
Genital Herpes can be transmitted both when symptoms are present and sometimes when symptoms are not present. It is transmitted through ‘direct’ skin-to-skin contact. This occurs when a contagious area comes into contact with a tiny break in the skin or mucous membrane tissue, primarily the mouth and genitals.
While condoms do not always cover the potential sites of viral shedding, such as pubic hair and other ano-genital area, there is still risk of transmitting the HSV to the partner even protected sex is practice.
1. If husband’s is infected with HSV type II with infected areas include penis, pubic hair and other ano-genital area, he covers penis with condom while pubic hair and other ano-genital area with lady stocking, can we say that there are no ‘direct’ skin to skin contact therefore impose no risk of transmission to his wife?
2. If husband affected area only at penis, he covers penis with condom (with a hole on the tip of condom), can we conclude that they can have child with no risk of transmission to his wife?
In 11-Jul-08 you say that It is safe to share towel or touching the genital and continue to touch the other areas. It is rare that Herpes occurs on other areas of the body like chest, chin, eyes, ears, buttocks, etc.
In 22-May-08 you say that Fingering or touching is unlikely to give rise to a transmission. However, one should not be touching the mouth or eyes after touching the affected part as these areas are form of mucous membrane, which can be easily transmitted.
Which is true on the virus transmission of HSV to eyes? Please help to clarify.
Please do not give general answer as I believe a lot of couples worry to infect their partner but wish to continue sex life or have children. Thanks. |
| Answer - |
The methods that you had suggested had not been scientifically proven that the risk can be reduce. Moreover, the stocking may not be in place to form the barrier during sex, and the cut hole on the condom may become a larger hole instead. In addition, one does not know where is the site of viral shedding that may have lead to a transmission. Therefore, the use of condom is the only orthodox barrier that can help reduce the transmission.
One can monitor on the recurrences and can decide on going off the condom so as to help in a pregnancy. If a woman carries Herpes infection, she can still become pregnant.
Women with genital herpes can have healthy babies. Those who acquire genital herpes before they become pregnant have a very low risk of transmitting the virus to their babies. This is because their immune system makes antibodies that are temporarily passed to the baby through the placenta. The risk of transmission is lower for recurrent infections than for primary(1st episode) infection.
In addition, if a mother knows she has genital herpes, she should inform her obstetrician / gynaecologist so that steps can be taken to protect the baby. If the female is infected with genital herpes, the obstetrician will recommend a Caesarean to deliver the baby if the active herpes is present during the delivery. This will prevent the newborn from becoming infected.
If there are no symptoms, one can usually deliver vaginally.
It is rare that Herpes occur on other areas of the body. However, certain areas like the eyes, mouth etc. are form of mucous membrane, this can increase the chance of a transmission. Hence, it is best to avoid touching other parts of the body immediately after touching the Herpes lesions. |
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| Date: |
03-Aug-2008 |
| Question: |
I have herpes type 2 and my wife have type 1. If we have unprotected sexual intercourse, will my type 2 transmit to my wife and her type 1 transmit to me.
Will the above disease transmit to our baby if we want to start to have a family.
Your early advise for the above is greatly appreciated
Regards |
| Answer - |
For a better understanding about Herpes, you may wish to read this:
Herpes is usually diagnosed at the time of presentation. A specimen from a blister can be sent to the laboratory for viral culture, which is still the current gold standard for diagnosis. A blood test is reliable if it is done by the latest method, which is known as Type Specific Serology Test (HSV TSST) for Herpes but it may not be widely available. This screens for previous exposure to the virus, which can be done 8 weeks after the exposure. All other forms of blood tests have not been known to be reliable.
Herpes is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact. This occurs when a contagious area comes into contact with a tiny break in the skin or mucous membrane tissue, primarily the mouth and genitals. Herpes can be transmitted both when symptoms are present and sometimes when symptoms are not present.
Herpes, especially type 1(cold sores) on the mouth can be transmitted through kissing. Genital Herpes (usually type 2) is transmitted from sexual intercourse(oral, vaginal and anal). However, an individual with cold sores on the mouth may transmit the virus to the genital if there is oral sex being performed on another partner, and vice versa.
Women with genital herpes can have healthy babies. Those who acquire genital herpes before they become pregnant have a very low risk of transmitting the virus to their babies. This is because their immune system makes antibodies that are temporarily passed to the baby through the placenta. The risk of transmission is lower for recurrent infections than for primary(1st episode) infection.
In addition, if a mother knows she has genital herpes, she should inform her obstetrician / gynaecologist so that steps can be taken to protect the baby. If the female is infected with genital herpes, the obstetrician will recommend a Caesarean to deliver the baby if the active herpes is present during the delivery. This will prevent the newborn from becoming infected.
If there are no symptoms, one can usually deliver vaginally. |
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| Date: |
02-Aug-2008 |
| Question: |
Dear DSC,
Sadly, I was diagnosed with the HSV type 2 virus during my younger days around 20 years old in year 2000.
I did not have any medication througout the years and the recurrence was within control, not really bothering me.
I have a steady girlfriend with me for more than 2 years and she knows about my condition. I was faithful to her and did not have any other sex partners anymore. Recent months, I have been facing endless recurring episodes of the virus on my genital area. Its bringing me much discomfort especially when having sex. And usually during sex, i suffer from premature ejaculation. And also, I also notice that i need to urine more frequently ( 6-7 times per day) if i consumed slightly more water.
1) Can I just buy the medication off your shelf as my medical records should still be there?
2) Do you think I need to visit the doctor at DSC?
Please advise.
Thank you. |
| Answer - |
The sexual intercourse with your girlfriend must be with protection so as to minimise her risk of being infected.
In Singapore, medications for the treatment of Herpes can only be prescribed by a doctor and these are not meant for buying over the counter. You may wish to see a doctor or return to the DSC Clinic to get a prescription. |
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| Date: |
28-Jul-2008 |
| Question: |
I'm currently pregnant for 36weeks and my EDD is on 25/08/2008. This is my second times pregnant. My 1st child is natural delivery and now is 8 years old already. This time pregnancy making me very worry. 3 years ago (April 2005), because my partner we both contract with STD (Genital Herpes type 2). Because there are blisters on my lower body during that time we both go to see doctor and the doctor confirm we get infection of HSV-2. We both have taken blood test on May 2005 and confirm both of us have this HSV-2 antibiotic in our blood. During that time outbreak we both have see STD doc and eaten the medcine prescribe by the doctor and this virus didn't outbreak anymore until today. As i know even we dont see the virus, there will still be possible of infection.
The thing that i'm worry about is passing this virus to baby during natural delivery. Will this virus pass to my baby if i choose to natural delivery,is there any 100% precaution i can take?
My gynea doctor told me cesarean delivery is the safest way but i hope can choose natural delivery.....
Another question is
Is it a person contract with HSV-2 cannot donate blood?
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| Answer - |
Women with genital herpes can have healthy babies. Those who acquire genital herpes before they become pregnant have a very low risk of transmitting the virus to their babies. This is because their immune system makes antibodies that are temporarily passed to the baby through the placenta. The risk of transmission is lower for recurrent infections than for primary(1st episode) infection.
In addition, if a mother knows she has genital herpes, she should inform her obstetrician / gynaecologist so that steps can be taken to protect the baby. If the female is infected with genital herpes, the obstetrician will recommend a Caesarean to deliver the baby if the active herpes is present during the delivery. This will prevent the newborn from becoming infected.
If there are no symptoms, one can usually deliver vaginally.
As the transmission of Herpes is not by blood borne, there is no issue for blood donation. |
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| Date: |
25-Jul-2008 |
| Question: |
If i am HSV one postive.I perform oral sex with someone that does not have HSV one or HSV two.
Will the person get HSV one ? Or will HSV one become HSV two because i perform oral sex on the person ? |
| Answer - |
Herpes is caused by a virus called herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two types of HSV, namely type 1 and 2. HSV type 1 more commonly causes cold sores, which present as blister rash on and around the lips. HSV type 2 more commonly causes genital herpes, which is usually a sexually transmitted infection. However, HSV type 1 can also cause genital herpes and similarly, HSV type 2 can cause cold sore due to cross transfers of virus from oral sex. Herpes type 1 & 2 can be transmitted through skin-to-skin contact via kissing, sexual contact like vaginal, oral and anal sex.
The different strains of virus will not be able to change itself from one to the other. For example, when HSV I is being transmitted to another individual, it will still be HSV I; likewise for HSV II. |
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| Date: |
24-Jul-2008 |
| Question: |
(a) Is it possible for herpes to recovered in merely 5 days time? Please note that I have taken 5 tablets of 125mg Famvir.
(b) Is it possible for Herpes with no pain, no itchy? I have 2 occasions that I took a few second to urinate with a small quantities of yellowish urine.
(c) I heard that during 1st eposide, it is easy to spread the virus to other parts of body if touch on the inflected part and touch on other parts of body. Is it true?
(d) Is it possible for Herpes whitlow that has no pain / no itchy?
(e) Is it possible for Herpes whitlow to appear after a few hours from the exposure?
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| Answer - |
(a) The recovery process varies in individuals.
(b) During the initial outbreak, one may not experience the sensation. We would not be able to advise on the yellowish urine.
(c) It is rare that herpes can occur by touching the other parts of the body. Even if this occurs, this is usually due to prolong contact. For example, an individual with cold sores(oral Herpes) on the lips and there is continued sucking of the fingers may bring about herpes whitlow on the fingers.
(d) Certain herpes carrier may not experience signs and symptoms.
(e) Signs and symptoms may appear some days later or in certain cases, no experience at all. |
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| Date: |
20-Jul-2008 |
| Question: |
I suffer from herpes. 3 months ago, i have been experiencing pain whenever i sit cross legged. the pain extends from my butt to my knee. i have been to the doctors but it did not help. could the pain be due to the fact that i have herpes? |
| Answer - |
Herpes infection does not lead to such complications, but a visit to a doctor or a specialist will be able to assist you. |
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| Date: |
17-Jul-2008 |
| Question: |
I was diagnosed by my family doc to have contracted herpes and my wife is pregnant at the moment.
My question is:
1) The risk posed to her and the unborn child. Should we abort the unborn child (14 weeks).
2) Do person with herpes or STD will get HIV? I also have genital warts.
3) Do I need to have blood test to alley my fears?
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| Answer - |
1) Herpes is usually diagnosed at the time of presentation. A specimen from a blister can be sent to the laboratory for viral culture, which is still the current gold standard for diagnosis. A blood test is reliable if it is done by the latest method, which is known as Type Specific Serology Test (HSV TSST) for Herpes but it may not be widely available. This screens for previous exposure to the virus, which can be done 8 weeks after the exposure.
All other forms of blood tests have not been known to be reliable.
Herpes infection does not give rise to fertility issues. A male with a history of genital herpes can still have a family. It does not impact on the child; it is the female carrier that can affect the baby.
Women with genital herpes can have healthy babies. Those who acquire genital herpes before they become pregnant have a very low risk of transmitting the virus to their babies. This is because their immune system makes antibodies that are temporarily passed to the baby through the placenta. The risk of transmission is lower for recurrent infections than for primary(1st episode) infection.
In addition, if a mother knows she has genital herpes, she should inform her obstetrician / gynaecologist so that steps can be taken to protect the baby. If the female is infected with genital herpes, the obstetrician will recommend a Caesarean to deliver the baby if the active herpes is present during the delivery. This will prevent the newborn from becoming infected.
If there are no symptoms, one can usually deliver vaginally.
2) There are different STIs like Gonorrhoea, Non-GC Urethritis / Chlamydia, HIV / AIDS, Genital Warts etc. These infections are cause by different microorganisms and acquired respectively, and even if one infection had been left untreated, it will not lead to another infection.
3) In STI screening, a person can go for a blood test 3 months after exposure for HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis B. |
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| Date: |
11-Jul-2008 |
| Question: |
(a) Can IgG Herpes 1 detects antibody within 17 days after exposure?
(b) I have some tiny red dots (now became black)around chest (3-4), arm (3-4), thighs (3-4) as I scratched them. Can Herpes from genital spread the virus to these areas by using the same trowel or by accidentally touching the genital and touching other areas? Is it possible spread so easily in such way?
(c) Can Herpes Whitlow appears after a few hours after exposure? Does all Herpes Whitlows are painful / itchy?
(d) After Herpes Whitlow is cured, does it form a hard layer of outer skin on palm? Is it normal?
Mike |
| Answer - |
(a) Herpes is usually diagnosed at the time of presentation. A specimen from a blister can be sent to the laboratory for viral culture, which is still the current gold standard for diagnosis. A blood test is reliable if it is done by the latest method, which is known as Type Specific Serology Test (HSV TSST) for Herpes but it may not be widely available. This screens for previous exposure to the virus, which can be done 8 weeks after the exposure. All other forms of blood tests have not been known to be reliable.
(b) It is safe to share towel or touching the genital and continue to touch the other areas. It is rare that Herpes occurs on other areas of the body like chest, chin, eyes, ears, buttocks, etc. We would advice you to consult a doctor for a physical examination in order to know the cause of the problem around your chest.
(c) Herpetic whitlow is a lesion on a finger or thumb and this is not sexually transmitted. The signs and symptoms of HSV infection tend to occur days after initial exposure. There may be tingling sensation and painful blisters. However, there are carriers who may not experience any signs and symptoms.
(d) The “classic” symptoms that most people associate with herpes are sores, vesicles, or ulcers – all of which can also be called lesions. These classic lesions of genital herpes often resemble small pimples or blisters that eventually crust over and finally scab like a small cut. This scar will heal very quickly. |
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| Date: |
05-Jul-2008 |
| Question: |
I had been having intercourse with my ex-bf for the last 6 years and he had never had any problems or genital warts. A week ago, my new bf found genital warts on himself and since his last sexual intercourse was 1 year ago, and he had never had genital warts before, we assumed it had to be transmitted through me since I had multiply partners before when I was much younger. However all my previous HIV & pap smears are negative.
I had cold sores on my lips before about 2 – 3 years ago and my GP mentioned it’s Herpes. I never had sex (whether orally or through vaginal intercourse) when the cold sore was present. And my 1st bf had no problem even till today.
Can I transmit HPV (genital warts) to my current bf if I only had a history of cold sores on the lips only? I never had genital warts or genital herpes before. I had pap smear done recently & it was also tested negative. If I have HPV, does that mean it HAS to be positive on pap smear?
If assuming my current bf has the HPV in him for the last 1-2 years and the warts only surface now, does that mean I would certainly get it as we had unprotected sex when I was having my menses. Is there a window period for me to go for pap smear to test for HPV?
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| Answer - |
There are more than 100 different strains of the Human Papilloma Virus(HPV). Some of them are known to have cause Genital Warts, which is an STI, whereas others are linked to skin warts on the feet, fingers etc but are not STI. HPV that causes genital warts are usually spread by direct skin-to-skin contact during sexual exposures or even heavy petting but not through blood, seminal and vaginal fluid. HPV may be more likely transmitted when warts are present but transmission is possible even when there are no visible signs. There are individuals who carry the virus for months and years but do not show up. Hence, it is difficult to determine the source of the infection.
Genital warts is diagnosed by its clinical appearances, ie. the cauliflower growths. There is no test available for screening. For women, a pap smear may be able to pick up the HPV from the cervix.
Warts is a treatable condition but not curable, thus, there may be a chance for recurrence. Treatment can only be administered for patients with the visible warts. There may be a chance to recur after the treatment.
Similarly, Herpes is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact. This occurs when a contagious area comes into contact with a tiny break in the skin or mucous membrane tissue, primarily the mouth and genitals. Herpes can be transmitted both when symptoms are present and sometimes when symptoms are not present.
Herpes, especially type 1(cold sores) on the mouth can be transmitted through kissing. Genital Herpes (usually type 2) is transmitted from sexual intercourse(oral, vaginal and anal). However, an individual with cold sores on the mouth may transmit the virus to the genital if there is oral sex being performed on another partner, and vice versa.
Herpes is usually diagnosed at the time of presentation. A specimen from a blister can be sent to the laboratory for viral culture, which is still the current gold standard for diagnosis. A blood test is reliable if it is done by the latest method, which is known as Type Specific Serology Test (HSV TSST) for Herpes but it may not be widely available. This screens for previous exposure to the virus, which can be done 8 weeks after the exposure. All other forms of blood tests have not been known to be reliable.
It is important to note that having one infection will not lead or change to another infection. In addition, sexual activities during menses will not give rise to catching an infection. |
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| Date: |
03-Jul-2008 |
| Question: |
My blood test results returned that I have Herpes type I. I have no symptoms of sores/ ulcers/ blisters in my mouth neither do I have them in my genital areas.
The doctor said that this is a common infection and should not be associated with STIs. He said that no medications is needed in my case (since I have no symptoms). When asked, he also mentioned that I may not even have symptoms for life and Herpes type I infections may go away in years to come. He said that I should only visit a doctor (a GP) should any symptoms occur.
My questions are:
1) Since it's incurable, will it really go away with time?
2) Will it be possible that I have no symptoms for life?
3) If I have the infection, does it mean my partner has it too? Should he seek medical assistance? Can we have future vaginal intercourse (protected & unprotected)?
4)If its not life threatening, what are the consequences of having Herpes?
Please advice.
Thank you |
| Answer - |
You may wish to read about Herpes:
Herpes is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact. This occurs when a contagious area comes into contact with a tiny break in the skin or mucous membrane tissue, primarily the mouth and genitals. Herpes can be transmitted both when symptoms are present and sometimes when symptoms are not present.
Herpes, especially type 1(cold sores) on the mouth can be transmitted through kissing. Genital Herpes (usually type 2) is transmitted from sexual intercourse(oral, vaginal and anal). However, an individual with cold sores on the mouth may transmit the virus to the genital if there is oral sex being performed on another partner, and vice versa.
Herpes is usually diagnosed at the time of presentation. A specimen from a blister can be sent to the laboratory for viral culture, which is still the current gold standard for diagnosis. A blood test is reliable if it is done by the latest method, which is known as Type Specific Serology Test (HSV TSST) for Herpes but it may not be widely available. This screens for previous exposure to the virus, which can be done 8 weeks after the exposure. All other forms of blood tests have not been known to be reliable.
1. Herpes is incurable, but it is a manageable infection and the chance of recurrences will decrease with time.
2 & 3. Certain carriers may not experience the signs and symptoms but capable of a transmission.
4. If the carrier is symptomatic, the direct impact is such that the individual will experience the discomfort of having the infection. For both the symptomatic and asymptomatic carriers, there is a chance for transmission. The viruses do not impact on the body leading to other infections or life threatening problems. |
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| Date: |
29-Jun-2008 |
| Question: |
I have the following questions regarding Herpes.
(a) I have a small red patch (size 0.5cm x 0.5cm - red waxy look) at the 'shaft' of my penis after 13 days of exposure. Doctor diagnosed that it is HSV 1 genital. Does the red patch looks like HSV 1 genital? So far I have no blisters in genital.
(Please note that my IgG 1 is positive and IgG 2 is negative)
(b) Red spots were appeared on my arm (5 spots), chest (3 spots), stomach (2 spots) and upper inner thighs (3 spots). If I used finger nail to squeeze, there are little bit of fluid being squeezed out and the colour of the spots turned black. Do all these spots related to Herpes? Can Herpes HSV 1 genital transmit to all these areas? Is it possible that I have used the same trowel or finger touched the affected area and affected other areas?
(c) I have protected virginal sex on 27th June 2008 and there were some (about 5-7) tiny red spots appeared at the 'shaft' of the penis. 2 days later, all these red spots disappeared. Are all these related to Herpes HSV 1? Is it so called outbreak due to friction?
(d) Do I need to separate the washing of my clothes, trowel etc. with other family member?
(e) Using condom to for virginal intercourse, can I prevent the disease from spreading to the partner 100%? How effective is the condom?
(f) People having HSV 1 will they be banned from entering and work / reside in certain countries?
(g) Can I share items like toilet seat, soap, trowel, utensil, drinking glass etc with others, will the virus spread? There are a few red spots on my upper inner thighs, were the virus stay at the toilet seat?
(h) On the same day of my last exposure. On my left palm, there was a hard layer of skin (0.5 cm almost circle). I used nail cutter to remove it and it appeared again. Now the layer of skin is a bit different from surrounding skin. It is a bit hard. Is it Herpes on palm?
(i) On the same day of my last exposure. On my right palm, there was a blister (0.3 cm x 0.3 cm). I used my finger nail to remove it. Now the layer of skin is a bit different from surrounding skin. It is a bit hard. Is it Herpes on palm?
(j) How many outbreaks do you have with HSV 1 genital? I heard that most of the people will not have any outbreak for HSV 1 genital after 1-2 years. Is it true?
(k) I also heard that the outbreak for HSV 1 genital is very mild. My 1st episode is very mild, no pain and no itchy, only a red patch and twice urine pain with small quantities of yellowish urine.
(l) Do I need to take any anti-viral medication? Do you take such medication? Please advice me.
Will I transmit the disease to my family?
Please advice me asap. I am lost and really wish to get some help.
Steve |
| Answer - |
We are not in the position to ascertain if you are having Herpes infection as a physical examination is needed.
We are not aware of the practises of other countries, but in Singapore, Herpes carriers do not face residential issues.
You may wish to read about Herpes:
Herpes is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact. This occurs when a contagious area comes into contact with a tiny break in the skin or mucous membrane tissue, primarily the mouth and genitals. Herpes can be transmitted both when symptoms are present and sometimes when symptoms are not present.
Herpes, especially type 1(cold sores) on the mouth can be transmitted through kissing. Genital Herpes (usually type 2) is transmitted from sexual intercourse(oral, vaginal and anal). However, an individual with cold sores on the mouth may transmit the virus to the genital if there is oral sex being performed on another partner, and vice versa.
Generally, Herpes carriers with HSV 1 tend to have milder attacks and fewer recurrences as compared to HSV 2.
Condoms, when used correctly and consistently and where there is no breakage or leakage, provide effective protection against STI.
Communal contacts with the family members, washing of clothes, food and drinks etc do not transmit STI including Herpes.
The “classic” symptoms that most people associate with genital herpes are sores, vesicles, or ulcers – all of which can also be called lesions. These classic lesions of genital herpes often resemble small pimples or blisters that eventually crust over and finally scab like a small cut. However, many cases would not develop these lesions, which could be known as asymptomatic carrier. Many times, transmission does take place during this phase.
Herpes is usually diagnosed at the time of presentation. A specimen from a blister can be sent to the laboratory for viral culture, which is still the current gold standard for diagnosis. A blood test is reliable if it is done by the latest method, which is known as Type Specific Serology Test (HSV TSST) for Herpes but it may not be widely available. This screens for previous exposure to the virus, which can be done 8 weeks after the exposure.
All other forms of blood tests have not been known to be reliable.
For people with the signs and symptoms, treatment is aimed at each episode or attack. Treatment is only needed for individuals who present with signs and symptoms. Optimistically, Herpes is a very manageable condition. |
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| Date: |
27-Jun-2008 |
| Question: |
Hi DSC,
I have some question on the Herpes virus. Actually, I went for a massage by a lady. The lady performed full body massage
on me and also masturbation with oil using her hand. After the incident, my body feel itchy immediately i went home for the
rest of the 2 days. Now, the itchiness recur. I have no open sore,blister and lession on my pennis.
I wonder would I catch herpes I/II this way. For what i know, the lady may have hand herpes/herpes whitlow. So, it may have tranmissted from her
hand to my pennis during masturbation or when she massage my body. I am afraid the symptons may not be present on her hand but the
virus may be shedding that make her the asymptomatic carrier.Do i need to go for the herpes test? Is the Herpes I/II IGG test is
the Type Specific Serology Test u mentioned in this forum?
Please help as i am worried whether should i go for the test and what if the test come out positive???
Thanks
Regards
Mr Yong |
| Answer - |
You are not at risk of being transmitted with any STI including Herpes from the massage, massage oil and masturbation.
You do not need any STI screening basing from this scenario.
The itch is not a representative of any STI. You can visit a doctor for an examination of the itch. |
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| Date: |
23-Jun-2008 |
| Question: |
I would like to know whether when there's a herpes infection recurrence and I took a new medication Valtrex from a private clinic. The curing time is fast but i suffer side effects like headache, insomnia and hallucination. Is this usually the case? Cos previously when i took the medication from DSC Clinic, there's no side effects but the infection will last longer |
| Answer - |
The anti-viral medications for Herpes infection are Acyclovir, Valacyclovir and Famciclovir. These medications do have certain side effects that are not unusual like diarrhoea, headache and nausea or vomiting. If any of the ill effects persist or are severe, one should consult a doctor. However, one should consult a doctor as soon as possible if there are effects like allergic reactions, mental or mood changes(hallucination, agitation, anxiety), severe tiredness.
The efficacy of the medicine is dependable on the condition of the attack, the number of days of the outbreak, the dosage prescribed, the amount of drug that is being kept in the body at a constant level etc. Therefore, on the part of the symptomatic patient, take the medication regularly and at evenly spaced interval.
Primary Genital Herpes, that is the initial outbreak, can be more severe and painful. There may be a chance for recurrence. In most patients, the recurrent attacks become less severe, less painful and less frequent. |
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| Date: |
17-Jun-2008 |
| Question: |
Dear dr, would like to make an enquiry, i have plantar warts at the feet.
My question is
1.can plantar warts cause genital warts?
2.Is the plantar warts the same as genital warts?
3.i have herpes 1 and 2, will this cause genital warts?
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| Answer - |
There are more than 100 different strains of the Human Papilloma Virus(HPV). Some of them are known to have cause Genital Warts, which is an STI, whereas others are linked to skin warts on the feet, fingers etc but are not STI. Plantar Warts are not related to Genital Warts.
Similarly, Herpes and Warts are cause by different viruses. Hence, having Herpes infection will not bring about Warts infection. |
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| Date: |
15-Jun-2008 |
| Question: |
I have cold sores (herpes simplex). I have read articles that said it can be transmitted with kissing, even when sores are inactive. Does this mean I can never kiss anyone again? I'm worried my boyfriend will accuse me of passing him this virus as we are planning to take some medical tests soon in preparation of our marriage. How can I explain to him? I have absolutely no idea how I have this terrible virus. Thank you. |
| Answer - |
Herpes is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact. This occurs when a contagious area comes into contact with a tiny break in the skin or mucous membrane tissue, primarily the mouth and genitals.
Herpes can be transmitted both when symptoms are present and sometimes when symptoms are not present.
Herpes, especially type 1(cold sores) on the mouth can be transmitted through kissing. This a common infection in the population and one may have acquired since childhood. People with this infection may not experience the signs and symptoms.
Genital Herpes (usually type 2) is transmitted from sexual intercourse(oral, vaginal and anal). However, an individual with cold sores on the mouth may transmit the virus to the genital if there is oral sex being performed on another partner, and vice versa.
Herpes is usually diagnosed at the time of presentation. A specimen from a blister can be sent to the laboratory for viral culture, which is still the current gold standard for diagnosis. A blood test is reliable if it is done by the latest method, which is known as Type Specific Serology Test (HSV TSST) for Herpes but it may not be widely available. This screens for previous exposure to the virus, which can be done 8 weeks after the exposure. All other forms of blood tests have not been known to be reliable.
This is a very manageable infection even if one has the signs and symptoms.
You may wish to discuss with him about this. |
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| Date: |
27-May-2008 |
| Question: |
I went to the doctor for lab blood work and I left a urine sample...anyway my blood work is not back yet but they tell me that I have hsv1&2 and have had it for 6 months from the urine test and the vaginal swap. My question is neither me nor my husband have had any symtoms or have we every so is it possible that we could have it or should I just wait for the blood work to come back before I panic? Also I went to my gyno just a few months ago and those test came back just fine, can you please help me with this? |
| Answer - |
We are not in the position to comment since we did not conduct the test for you. However, you may wish to read the following information.
Herpes is usually diagnosed at the time of presentation. A specimen from a blister can be sent to the laboratory for viral culture, which is still the current gold standard for diagnosis. A blood test is reliable if it is done by the latest method, which is known as Type Specific Serology Test (HSV TSST) for Herpes but it may not be widely available. This screens for previous exposure to the virus, which can be done 8 weeks after the exposure. All other forms of blood or urine tests have not been known to be reliable. |
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