Repeated occurrence
This phenomenon, known as recurrence, describes the reactivation of the herpes virus in response to specific stimuli. Recurrence is possible despite having a robust immune system. There are several known causes of recurrence, including the following:
a lack of energy
hormonal fluctuations, such as during menstruation
Exposure to extreme heat, extreme cold, or ultraviolet radiation
Anxiety or stress that persists for more than one week
Physical strain caused by a disease, injury, or infection
If you have already been exposed to HSV-1 or HSV-2 viruses, there are a number of physical health factors that can cause your infection to last longer or become more severe. These health conditions or risk factors increase your likelihood of contracting the infection:
HIV infection AIDS
HIV infection diminishes immunity to viruses, and a herpes virus infection may be more severe in HIV-positive individuals.
Immunological suppression
If a person’s immune system is already compromised for whatever cause, he or she is more likely to develop a more persistent or severe HSV infection. Multiple factors, including an immune system deficiency, HIV, an autoimmune condition, bone marrow malignancy, IgA disease, organ transplantation, or chemotherapy treatment, can suppress the immune system.
Utilization of immunosuppressive drugs
If an individual is taking an immunosuppressive medication, such as a chemotherapeutic drug or steroid, he may experience reactivation of genital herpes and more severe symptoms of HSV-1 or HSV-2 infections. As soon as immunosuppressive medications are discontinued and the immune system resumes its normal function, there is no longer a problem.
IgA insufficiency
IgA deficiency is the most prevalent association with HSV infections, as any immune system deficiency increases the likelihood of recurrent blisters and a more severe episode of genital herpes. IgA is a type of immune protein that provides protection against mucous membrane infections in particular. Mucous membranes offer protection to body regions such as the mouth and vagina by lubricating them with mucus.
Unprotected sexual activity
Herpes genitalis is caused by having unprotected sex or having intercourse with multiple partners who may be potential HSV carriers. Oral and vaginal intercourse is the leading cause of HSV-2 transmission between individuals.
Sharing goods
It is possible to transmit the HSV-1 virus by sharing items such as mouthguards, towels, toothbrushes, and even containers. Utilizing someone else’s lip balm, lipstick, or lip gloss is problematic due to the inherent presence of moisture in these products, which facilitates virus transmission.
