The Causes of Herpes Outbreaks

In spite of years of medical research into the issue, the sources of herpes outbreaks are still poorly understood. Typically called “triggers”, the stimuli responsible for triggering the process of viral shedding in infected people is believed to encompass everything from direct sunlight to specific types of food items. Unfortunately, while hypotheses abound, not much in the form of scientific proof is available.

This report takes a look at some of the more generally-endorsed hypotheses regarding triggers for herpes outbreaks. When reviewing the material presented, it is crucial to remember that certain triggers for each individual are probably different. Concluding which of them, if any, causes your herpes outbreaks is a process of discovery that can sometimes take several years.

The most-frequently experienced triggers for herpes outbreaks include:

Exposure to Ultra-Violet Light

Irritation of the epidermis caused by ultra-violet light is believed to induce viral shedding in many herpes sufferers. This kind of exposure comes most often from sunlight, but is also frequently seen by individuals who use artificial tanning salons.

In order to avoid causing an episode from UV light, it is recommended that the susceptible individual use sunscreen lotion, hats, etc. while outside in the sun, and refrain from the use of artificial Ultra violet rays for tanning.

Stress and Fatigue

The relationship between stress, lack of sleep, and herpes outbreaks is among the more solid ones established by experts. As both stress and fatigue decrease the effectiveness of the body’s ability to protect itself against disease, extended stretches of either can allow the HSV-2 or HSV-1 infections to overpower the immune system.

The most-prescribed technique for reducing fatigue and stress is exercise and a nutritious diet. As is the case with many issues related to herpes, boosting your health and fitness is among the greatest factors in effectively managing the disease.

Friction around the Infected Region

More frequently connected with genital herpes than oral herpes, friction around the infected areas (e.g., the groin or genitals) is regarded as one of the main causes of herpes outbreaks. Just like direct sunlight, irritation of the skin by external factors like tight garments and sexual intercourse seems to trigger viral shedding in some individuals.

Avoiding this particular trigger requires wearing comfortable, loose-fitted underwear, and using a sufficient amount of, water-based sexual lubricants during intercourse. Both of these habits will reduce chaffing of the skin, and help to avoid future outbreaks.

Exposure to Cold and Wind

Many patients infected with oral herpes (HSV-1) report that exposure to low temperatures and wind oftentimes causes episodes of fever blisters. Although no immediate medical connection has been discovered to confirm this phenomenon, it does stand to reason that these conditions would irritate the skin and potentially weaken the tissue’s ability to combat the imbedded herpes virus.

Wearing protective clothing and using some kind of lip balm are recommended methods of managing these specific causes of herpes outbreaks.

Diet

One last suspected trigger of herpes outbreaks relates to the patient’s diet. Various studies have determined that a link exists between large volumes of L-arginine (commonly present in chocolate, nuts, gelatin, and flour) and the regularity that outbreaks recur in many patients. The excessive drinking of alcohol also is regarded as a culprit thanks to its inhibiting of the body’s immune system.

Along with avoiding those foods loaded with L-arginine, it is felt by many that consuming a greater percentage of foods containing Lysine helps suppress outbreaks. Food items that contain significant amounts of Lysine include meat, dairy products, fish, eggs, and potatoes.

Reviewing the Causes of Herpes Outbreaks

Identifying the causes of herpes outbreaks in your own case is, not surprisingly, an imperfect science. Although the stimuli highlighted in this article are cited as causes of outbreaks for a great many patients, this does not mean that they will serve as triggers for you. By following the suggestions outlined above, however, it is probable that you will considerably reduce the frequency with which you have future herpes outbreaks.

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