Herpes

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) affecting about one in eight people ages 14-49 in the United States. It must be effectively managed to reduce the risk of complications. At Hush Care, an online sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing company serving the entire state of Texas, the medical experts offer confidential herpes tests and other STI screenings and treatments. Schedule herpes testing today by filling out the online Hush Care intake form.

What is herpes?

Herpes is a viral infection. HSV (herpes simplex virus) causes this STI. It commonly affects the mouth (oral herpes) and genital area (genital herpes). HSV is characterized by fluid-filled blisters in the affected areas of your body. They eventually break open and crust over.

Herpes is highly contagious and spreads from person to person through sexual and other skin-to-skin contact.

What are the symptoms of herpes?

Herpes can cause the following symptoms:

• Blisters
• Open sores
• Scabbing
• Tingling, itching, or burning of the skin
• Painful urination
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Headaches
• Flu-like symptoms during the initial herpes outbreak

However, not everyone with herpes has symptoms, and the sores commonly come and go. Herpes can appear in the genitals, anus, or mouth. But the virus can affect your eyes, fingers, and other areas.

What are the risk factors for herpes?

Herpes spreads from person to person through vaginal, oral, or anal sex. You can also contract herpes through direct intimate (skin-to-skin) contact with an infected person who has symptoms (sores). Risk factors include:

• Having vaginal, anal, or oral sex with an infected partner
• History of STIs
• Not using a condom during sex
• Having several or new sex partners

Using a condom or dental dam during sex lowers your risk of contracting herpes and other STIs. Avoid skin-to-skin contact with those having visible sores.

How is herpes diagnosed?

To get tested for herpes, fill out the discreet online Hush Care intake form. Diagnosing herpes requires lab testing (a swab of a sore or bloodwork) to determine if you have this STI. A licensed medical provider at Hush Care reviews your results and determines if you need treatment (medication).

How is herpes managed?

Herpes isn’t curable, but taking medication exactly as prescribed helps reduce the risk of outbreaks (sores) and spreading herpes to others. Your partner must also be tested and treated if they have an STI.

However, herpes simplex doesn’t go away, and you can still spread the virus. Talk with your sexual partner to discuss the risks and ways to prevent them.

Schedule discreet herpes testing at Hush Care today by filling out the confidential online intake form.