Someone please help me understand!
Posted , 3 users are following.
Hi
I was diagnosed with herpes last night. Im really confused!
I have antibiotics to clear the outburst i currently have. Im worried about telling people and if i have new sexual partners in the future.
Once its cleared will i still be risking someone else with the infection or am i only risking someone if i have a outburst?
I dont understand! Iv read loads of forums and nothing is clear!
How long do the outbreaks normally last?
Whats the percentage of me getting another one?
Does alcohol and a poor diet really affect me?
Thanks in advance 
0 likes, 4 replies
justin12683 hannah0x
Posted
Sorry to hear about your diagnosis, but you should be aware that herpes is a manageable condition, and will tend to occur with diminishing frequency and severity as time goes on. Many people even stop noticing symptoms after just a couple of years. The first one or two outbreaks are often the worst. After these, symptoms will generally not be as severe.
To answer your question, outbreaks tend to occur in response to certain triggers. These include a weakened immune system, drinking too much alcohol, or wearing tight underwear or exercise clothing.
So perhaps one of the best ways to limit the risk of an outbreak is to make sure you look after your immune system and make sure you're getting enough sleep at night.
It's a good idea to have a healthy balanced diet anyway, and not drink too much alcohol; not only to reduce your chances of an outbreak but to ensure your overall health too.
Herpes is much more likely to be transmitted to someone else during a flare-up, so sex while you're experiencing symptoms is a definite no-no. This could also make your own symptoms even worse.
Although not as likely, however, it is possible to transmit the condition when symptoms are not present. This is called asymptomatic shedding.
Generally, it is better to wait for at least a week after symptoms have completely cleared before engaging in sexual intercourse; and using adequate protection (such as a condom) when doing so. It's always a good idea to talk about your sexual history with your partner before having sex, and taking adequate precautions.
There is plenty more information and advice on herpes to be found on sexual health charity websites such as Brook and FPA (Family Planning Association).
Hope that helps.
hannah0x justin12683
Posted
Iv now been to the clinic and been giving advice, booklets etc..
Starting to feel more positive now even tho its only been a week!
I cant let this beat me, otherwise i will be herpes instead of having herpes!
Praying there is a cure one day! ❤️
cath73367 hannah0x
Posted
FelizCastus hannah0x
Posted
However, despite what many websites and people claim, there is no scientific proof that certain foods are good/bad for herpes, not even lysine. My doctor at the STD clinic did not recommend I change my diet, and I have no intention of doing so, although I have since switched my herbal teas to echinacea, lemon balm, liquorice root and St. John's wort.
Of course, if you strongly feel that a certain food is somehow triggering outbreaks, then you should probably eliminate it from your diet.