Is the first year the worst?

Hi Courtney

I only found out I have HSV-2 just over a month ago, so I can't say from experience yet, what the first year is like.  My first outbreak has been mild (2 sores), and I'm having a milder one just now (can't really see the sore, but the symptoms are there - burning/tingling feeling in the same spot where the sores were).

I've been doing a lot of internet-reading just in the last week or so, and I've picked up the following things (plus my Mum has been researching hard-out for me);

1. Antivirals are very effective at reducing/stopping the outbreak, and also in reducing the number and severity of future outbreaks.

So try them!!! I'm going to!

Valtrex (or valaciclovir) is the "new improved" formula of the aciclovir antiviral. This will soon be subsidied by the government here in NZ (where I am).  I've always been a "pill-taker", not some hippy.  So take the pills!! They might make all the difference for you.

2. Yes, the first year or two are generally the worst, while your body is developing antibodies/immunity to further viral attacks.  For HSV-2 type, on average recurring outbreaks are 4-6 in the first year.  Everyone is different though, and my heart goes out to you with having such a painful and recurring time of it! (Take the PIIILLLSS!)

3. Having HSV-1 facial herpes (i.e. cold sores) tends to help people with HSV-2 genital herpes have milder, and fewer recurrences (because their system developed antibodies to the herpes symplex virus long ago).  So if you get mouth cold sores, maybe your genital outbreaks will settle down soon.  Stay positive and put in place different things - try different things!

4. Diet, sleep, and general health/well-being are important factors in reducing outbreaks.

Taking lycine supplements, or eating foods higher in lycine (and lower in Argenine) can apparently help. Here is a list I found;

Foods higher in Lycine (with a lower amount/ratio of Argenine) - i.e. foods that will help the situation;

- yoghurt

- cheese

- butter

- milk

- avocado

- fish

- chicken

Foods that have an even ratio of Lycine to Argenine (and, which you should have moderate consumption of);

- eggs

- chocolate

- cocoa

- oats/wheat

- corn

- spinach

- carrots

- bananas

Avoid foods high in Argenine / low in Lycine;

- Nuts and Seeds

Who wants to eat nuts and seeds anyway?  Only those dang hippies.

Take antiviral pills!!!  You may only need them for the first year or two from now, or when you feel an outbreak coming.  You can take them episodically (when the outbreaks occur).  They only work on the cell containing the virus.  I've read about stomach cramps, but your body will tell you if it's helpful or not - you'll soon see.  Try them!

Everywhere I read assures me it will settle down over time - your body will build its strength, the virus will retreat into the ganglion.  You're just having a very rough beginning - it's bound to settle down.  I keep reading this everywhere.

Remember, some people have it and don't even know - they don't experience symptoms.  Look at whatever else is happening that is stressing you out even more.  Look to antivirals or diet changes too.  Counselling is always a good idea, that might even help here.

Go and buy yourself some antivirals, yummy cheeses you like to eat, lean chicken and fish, get plenty of rest, and stay positive.  It will settle down in time.

Well, that's what I'm going to try.  Good luck!!!

XOXOX

 

The short answer, yes. Although yes, 11 is a lot and more than I had my first year... I think. That was a few years ago now.

I suggest taking a daily suppressive. I know you've read that you can build an immunity to it (I read the same thing). I took a suppressive for about a year and it definitely helped. Your body will naturally build an immunity to HSV, but medication will help in the mean time.

I remember feeling the same way as you did, like your whole world had just stopped. No idea what to do next. And I was only 19 at the time. At least you have maturity on your side.

I can't say for sure when this will get better. Just that it will.

BEST wishes for you, there is still a hope existing!

the first years i think will be worst but i also just got it a few months ago and i suffer alot. it seems continuous

im sorry

soon i hope

I am about 2 months in since being infected.  The whole time after my primary outbreak I have had daily tingling, burning, or itching and the tip of my penis was burning for a few days.  Now I just noticed the beginnings of a second outbreak with 2 pimples on my scrotum.  I was hoping for no more outbreaks.  How many of you diagnosed with HSV2 has only had one outbreak?  Do you shed less often because of it?  I just want a glimmer of hope to be able to marry someone that doesnt have HSV

The suppressives are your best option. Symptoms will become less frequent about little to no outbreaks

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