Herpes Simplex

Herpes Simplex

Herpes Simplex in Columbus, OH

Living with the herpes simplex virus can be an emotional experience. You may not know how to control your outbreaks and ensure that herpes simplex is not passed to other people. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham specializes in herpes simplex treatments for those living in the Greater Columbus area.

What is Herpes Simplex?

Herpes simplex is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, and it is also one of the least understood. The condition can be passed to men and women who engage in sexual activities with someone who carries the virus. When the virus is first transmitted, it typically remains dormant for a period of time, usually two to four weeks. At that time, a person may experience flu-like symptoms and notice small open blisters in the genital area. After the initial onset, the virus returns to a dormant state. People who have herpes simplex may experience “outbreaks” a few times a year, or they may go years in between outbreaks. People may or may not know that they carry the virus because not everyone has symptoms.

Herpes Simplex Treatment Benefits

Herpes simplex is not curable, but treatment can help with symptom management and the emotional effects of living with the herpes simplex virus. The overall goal of treatment is to control the frequency and severity of the outbreaks. You can pass the virus on to others even if you are not experiencing an active outbreak. Dr. Hicks-Graham will advise you about other precautions to take in order to keep the virus from spreading to other areas of your genitalia and from being passed to your sexual partners.

How is Herpes Simplex Treated?

Treatment for herpes simplex typically involves taking antiviral medications that will target the virus inside your body.

What Can I Expect From Herpes Simplex Treatment?

Medications that are known to help those living with herpes simplex work by:

  • Reducing the frequency of outbreaks
  • Promoting faster healing of the sores
  • Minimize, but not eliminate, the likelihood of passing the virus to another person
  • Reducing the duration and severity of symptoms

Herpes Simplex Treatment Preparation

Some medical professionals mistake a yeast infection and other conditions with herpes simplex, so we recommend that you prepare for treatment by getting an accurate diagnosis from Dr. Hicks-Graham. As a board-certified dermatologist, she is able to examine your sores and identify the underlying cause. We encourage you to be open and candid during your consultation so that she is best able to provide you with information about your treatment options. Herpes simplex is typically diagnosed by examining the sores, so we will do everything we can to schedule your appointment soon after the onset of your outbreak.

Herpes Simplex Treatment Recovery

Herpes simplex treatment does not require any type of recovery. Medications are intended to be used for the lifetime of the patient, so you should make sure that you take them as prescribed.

How Much Does Herpes Simplex Treatment Cost?

Medical insurance does cover the cost of herpes simplex treatment. We will contact your insurance carrier to determine the level of coverage. You will need to make a co-payment at the time of your appointment, and you will be responsible for any remaining balance once the insurance processes the claim. We accept payment by cash, check, and major credit card. Downtown Dermatology offers financing options through CareCredit®.

Is Herpes Simplex Treatment Right for Me?

If you believe that you have been exposed to someone with the herpes simplex virus or if you find sores in your genital area, we recommend that you be evaluated by our board-certified dermatologist Dr. Hicks-Graham.

Herpes Simplex Consultation

Talking about the possibility of being exposed to a herpes simplex or living with the condition can be stressful and emotional. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham has helped patients of all ages learn to take control of their herpes simplex infection. To learn more about living with herpes simplex, contact us to schedule a private and discrete consultation with Dr. Hicks-Graham.Herpes simplex is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Shari Hicks-Graham helps people in the Greater Columbus area learn more about herpes simplex and treatments that can manage the outbreaks.