Can Laso MD’s doctors provide herpes treatment?

Absolutely, doctors on Laso MD can offer effective herpes treatment options.

However, to ensure accuracy in herpes diagnosis, our physicians may recommend additional lab tests. These tests help confirm the presence of the herpes simplex virus while ruling out other potential causes of your symptoms.

 

Is it possible to receive a prescription on Laso MD?

Certainly, our healthcare professionals can prescribe herpes medications online during your consultation. Upon acceptance of the prescription, you can choose to pick it up from any pharmacy or opt for free doorstep delivery.

 

What is herpes?

Herpes, alternatively known as the herpes simplex virus (HSV) or genital herpes, is commonly associated with the term by most individuals.

Approximately one-fifth of individuals over the age of 12 in North America are affected by the HSV-2 virus, with estimates suggesting that between 50% and 80% of adults may carry HSV-1, also referred to as oral herpes. Interestingly, many individuals remain unaware of their infection.

The herpesviruses that can impact humans consist of eight types, including:

• HSV-1
• HSV-2
• Varicella-zoster virus
• Cytomegalovirus
• Epstein-Barr virus
• Human herpesvirus 6 (Variants A & B)
• Human herpesvirus 7
• Human herpesvirus 8 (or Kaposi’s sarcoma virus)

While these other forms of herpesviruses are less common than the herpes simplex viruses, this questionnaire exclusively focuses on HSV-1 and HSV-2.

 

What are the indications of herpes?

A significant number of individuals infected with HSV may remain unaware of their status, as they exhibit either no discernible signs or symptoms or experience extremely mild manifestations.

It’s crucial to note that the absence of apparent herpes symptoms does not negate the presence of the virus. Furthermore, symptoms may manifest as soon as two days after exposure to the virus or remain dormant for extended periods, ranging from months to years.

Many individuals may contract HSV-1 or HSV-2 without realizing it due to the lack of observable symptoms.

During the initial herpes episode, systemic symptoms may include:

• Malaise
• Fever
• Myalgia (muscle aches)
• Headache
• Dysuria (painful urination)
• Localized pain and itching
• Swollen lymph nodes

Recurring herpes signs and symptoms commonly involve:

• Pain or itching around the mouth or genitals
• Ulcers (commonly referred to as cold sores)
• Tiny white blisters or small red bumps
• Scabbing (occurs as ulcers begin to heal)

These symptoms typically manifest in specific areas for both genders, such as the thighs, buttocks, mouth, lips, anus, and urethra.

Men may also experience signs of herpes on the penis and scrotum, while women may observe symptoms in the vaginal area, external genitals, and internally at the cervix.

 

What causes herpes?

Herpes, in both its HSV-1 and HSV-2 forms, is caused by the herpes simplex virus.

The transmission of herpes occurs through intimate contact with an individual infected with either HSV-1 or HSV-2. The specific mode of transmission varies based on the variant carried by the host.

HSV-1, commonly resulting in symptoms around the mouth and lips, is often spread through kissing or skin-to-skin contact. However, it can also be transmitted to the genital area through various oral sex practices. HSV-1 tends to recur less frequently than HSV-2.

HSV-2, predominantly associated with genital herpes, spreads through vaginal and anal sex, as well as skin-to-skin contact. This variant is highly contagious, particularly during flare-ups.

 

How is herpes diagnosed?

While symptom observation can lead to a herpes diagnosis, doctors typically recommend additional testing to confirm the virus’s presence before prescribing treatment.

Diagnostic methods may include blood tests, viral cultures using tissue samples, or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests utilizing DNA from blood, tissue, or spinal fluid.

 

How is herpes treated?

Presently, there is no cure for either HSV-1 or HSV-2, making herpes treatment challenging, depending on symptom severity.

Following a herpes diagnosis, doctors may prescribe antiviral medications such as Valacyclovir (Valtrex), Acyclovir (Zovirax), or Famciclovir (Famvir) to manage painful symptoms.

While these medications may alleviate symptoms and expedite the healing process, they do not prevent the virus from spreading to others.

During outbreaks, it is advisable to avoid sexual contact to reduce the risk of transmission.

 

When to see a doctor for herpes?

If you exhibit signs of herpes, consulting with a doctor is recommended to understand how to manage symptoms and minimize transmission.

Considering recent sexual history, especially in new or multiple partnerships, is crucial when discussing symptoms with a healthcare professional.

Seeking medical attention is advisable if you experience genital pain, sores, or unusual discharge, allowing the doctor to assess the need for herpes treatment and help prevent further transmission.

 

What is Laso MD?

Laso MD provides a swift and convenient healthcare platform for 24/7 access to Canadian doctors.

Easily log in, request a consultation, and connect with a doctor via live chat or video within minutes. Visit our “How it Works” page to explore more about our services.

Our doctors are equipped to assess symptoms and offer treatment, including necessary prescriptions.