Causes of a Herpes Outbreak

There are two main types of herpes: herpes simplex 1, or oral herpes, which causes cold sores, and herpes simplex 2, or genital herpes, which is a sexually transmitted disease. Both forms are highly contagious. Oral herpes is very common, with about 90 percent of Americans contracting it at some point in their lives. Genital herpes is one of the most sexually transmitted diseases. You can prevent genital herpes outbreaks by exercising and eating well.

Illnesses

If you have serious illness such as HIV or leukemia, you are more likely to get recurrent herpes outbreaks because your immune system is weakened.

Intercourse

Some people with genital herpes report that the close contact of sexual intercourse can cause an outbreak to occur. Using water-based lubricant can lessen the likelihood of an outbreak.

Stress

Someone suffering from an extreme amount of stress is at an increased risk of experiencing a herpes outbreak.

Hormonal Changes

When your body undergoes extreme changes to its hormone levels, such as during pregnancy, you are more likely to suffer an outbreak.

Sunburn

When your skin in burnt, it is irritated, and that irritation is thought to increase your changes of having a herpes outbreak.

Menstruation

Some women with herpes suffer recurrent outbreaks during their monthly period.

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