Can a genital herpes infection from the past cause a flare-up?

Question

Hello doctor,

I believe I have a flare-up of genital herpes for the first time. I was diagnosed with herpes nine years back. There was itching and irritation at the site after a Brazilian wax. However, there were no vesicles. Initially, I thought it was a yeast infection and took a topical steroid.

Kindly advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I have reviewed your pictures (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity). The lesions are not typical of genital herpes, as blisters are not visible. Genital herpes presents typically with painful clear blisters. However, as you have had a history of genital herpes and have also applied topical steroids, we cannot ignore the fact that genital herpes might have recurred. A definite diagnosis can only be made by sending a self-collected swab for STI PCR (sexually transmitted infections) (polymerase chain reaction), including herpes from the lesion. Meanwhile, do not touch the lesions and avoid any sexual contact.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Then, you need to take the tablet Acyclovir 200 mg five times a day for ten days. You may have gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and vomiting, for which you can take the tablet Pantoprazole 40 mg once daily on an empty stomach. Consult a specialist doctor, talk to him or her and start the medicines with their consent. Also, take enough probiotics, and wear a condom during sex for the next two weeks.

I hope this helps.

Take care.