Genital Herpes
This sexually transmitted disease is caused by
infection with the herpes simplex virus. The virus is
virulent and can be transmitted by an infected sexual partner even when
they are not experiencing an acute attack of herpes. Once you are
infected with herpes simplex the virus remains dormant in your body, and
flares as an acute herpes outbreak episodically.
Symptoms
It is possible to be infected with genital herpes
without any symptoms to alert you to the fact. Sometimes a
person may carry for the virus for several years before experiencing
their first outbreak of herpes.
Common symptoms during an acute attack
include:
*Tingling or burning feeling in the genital
area
*One or more fluid filled white blisters which then
burst to become sores which last for up to 10
days.
*Flu like symptoms with fever and swollen
glands
Treatment
TCM does not have a germ theory of
disease, but understands pathogens such as viruses and bacterial
infections, as environmental factors such as cold, heat, wind, dampness
etc. Genital herpes most frequently is the result of
the pathogenic factors “damp and heat”. The primary meridians affected by damp and heat
are the liver and gallbladder, and often there is a weakness of kidney
yin energy underlying. Long term emotional suppression and feelings of
anger and frustration can predispose to acute episodes of damp
heat. Overconsumption of coffee, chocolate and hot
spicy foods also precipitates damp
heat.
Acupuncture during an acute
episode of genital herpes can greatly reduce the severity of symptoms and
healing time. Between episodes, the emphasis is on treating the
root or underlying energy imbalances, to reduce ongoing frequency of
outbreaks.
Accompanying herbal medicine may
include TCM herbs to clear damp heat; western herbs with antiviral
properties; nutritional medicine to boost immune function; dietary
modification and relaxation programs.
Links
Arrange a consultation
with Lynda>>
Articles
|
