26 years with HSV-2 and it's not getting better

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Camille - 20 May 2006 21:02 GMT

I got herpes when I was 19 years old after having unprotected sex. I
was taken to the hospital because I could not sit down without
incredible pain. That was my initial outbreak. It was at the hospital
that they told me I have genital herpes (HSV-2). For years my outbreaks
formed at the base of my vagina, then in the last 8 years or so,
switched to my right buttock. Now I am noticing it on my hands for the
first time. I have been taking Valtrex (500 mg.) every day ever since I
found out I have it. I tried Acyclovir at one point when I didn't have
insurance because it was cheaper, but didn't find it to work as well as
Valtrex. It's been a tough road to travel, telling a sexual partner
before we have sex that I have herpes, but I don't want what was done
to me to happen to anyone else. I'm jealous when I hear of people who
may have one or two outbreaks a year; I have them at least once a
month! I have learned from experience that stress definitely activates
an outbreak. I have also found outbreaks to happen right before my
period too. I don't believe alcohol makes any difference because I
don't drink and still get outbreaks. I'd like to believe a cure could
be found, or at least better suppression to help people like me who
have constant outbreaks. I share my experience for those who may be
looking for information, or can relate and may have experience or hope
to share with me. I know I don't travel this road alone!

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Al - 20 May 2006 23:08 GMT

Hi Camille,

Well you are certainly not alone! I have had genital herpes for about
11 years (i think). I get frequent outbreaks, like you, but mine are
not severe anymore. Everyone is different. From what I have heard men
tend to have more outbreaks but less severity, but i guess thats
debatable.

For years mine were just about the anal area in between the buttocks,
and since about a year ago they switched to my inner thighs near the
groin. Herpes is very changeable.

I'm 40 now, and got herpes when I was around 29, from having alot of
partners and not being careful by using protection. The reason I was
not using protection is because I already knew I was sterile so I got
careless.

Some people believe that stress is another major factor, others belive
it to be certain foods. Arginine has been talked about as being a
factor in herpes replication. Arginine is found in peanuts and other
foods. I think stress is the primary one for me.

Have you tried to limit certain foods or limit stress?

Al

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Camille - 21 May 2006 20:19 GMT

Thanks Al... I hadn't heard about Arginine, I'll check into that. Yes,
I have tried to limit some foods and stress, but can't say it's been
totally scientific.

Camille

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grant - 20 May 2006 23:32 GMT

Hi Camille,

Sorry you are having such a rough time.

What about upping your Valtrex dose? I don't know what the standard dose,
though.

As Al said, you might want to look at foods as contributors. I have a
friend who has an outbreak anytime he has any tiny bit of caffeine. It's
automatic with him.

Also, have you thought about seeking help from a doctor who can look at your
immune system? It would seem to me your immune system isn't working as well
as it should. Especially if you have passed it to your hands after being
infected with it for so many years.

ar

>I got herpes when I was 19 years old after having unprotected sex. I
> was taken to the hospital because I could not sit down without
[quoted text clipped - 17 lines]
> looking for information, or can relate and may have experience or hope
> to share with me. I know I don't travel this road alone!

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Camille - 21 May 2006 20:21 GMT

Hi ar... I also think you're onto something about the immune system. I
will look into it with my doctor. Thanks.
- Camille

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over50chick - 26 Jun 2006 18:12 GMT

Hi Camille,

My outbreaks are less now .. I think because my periods have stopped, look
forward to post menopause, they say hormonal changes are a good reason for
onsets.

I recently quit smoking cigarettes and therefore I am less stressful
believe it or not. Drinking a qt. or more of water daily and more deep
breaths are good for your immune system.

I have never taken Valtrex or any other meds and I have had hsv-2 for 27
years. I was married for 15 years with 2 different men and neither got hsv
from me. I still believe but could be wrong... if you know the signs before
a outbreak your partner is 99% safe, and you abstain from sex in those pre,
during and after times.

Things will get better, be positive!
ALH

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