Herpes immediately comes to mind
whenever STDs are discussed, and for good reason: it's one of the most
widespread diseases out there, with an estimated 16% of Americans aged 14 to 49
carrying the virus. That number increases drastically for major metropolitan
areas, especially New York City. As with anything else, knowledge is power
where herpes is concerned. This article will get you acquainted with the basics
of the disease and then provide an overview of treatment practices and herpes
testing options.
The Basic Facts
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) is, as the
name suggests, a viral disease belonging to the same family as chicken pox and
shingles. There are two varieties of Herpes Simplex. Type 1 is more common and
usually affects the face and mouth, producing characteristic cold sores during
outbreaks. Type 2 usually affects the genitals with painful, itchy sores; this type
is what most people mean by herpes and this type concerns us most. Both
types cycle between active and remission periods. Visible outbreaks correspond
with periods of weakened immune response, becoming less severe and frequent as
time goes on. However, most individuals can go weeks, months, or even years
without showing any symptoms. Make no mistake: genital herpes is just as
contagious when asymptomatic. In fact, this is one of the better reasons to
seek an STD clinic for yourself or
your partner. While incurable, the disease need not hamper one's intimate
relations. Timely and thorough herpes testing is the first step to mitigating
the worst of this common STD.
How Testing Works: Viral Cultures
Herpes testing is most accurate within
48 hours of the first outbreak. For this reason, it's important to find a
clinic as soon as symptoms appear—your doctor
will have a better chance of pinpointing the diagnosis, and you'll have
improved treatment options. In these cases, a culture test is administered by
swabbing the sore directly. Results usually take one week and can be “typed” to
distinguish between the strains (either type can show up anywhere on the body,
but Type 2 is most often the culprit in the genitals). Remember that time is of
the essence: the longer you wait, the more likely your results will return
false negatives due to a lack of active virus. Thankfully, new DNA tests are
improving precision, but that's no reason to wait it out or avoid seeing a
medical professional.
Blood Tests
Blood tests are available when there is
a lack of visible symptoms. This variety of herpes blood test detects antibodies produced by the immune system
to signal the presence of the virus. Specifically, it looks for IgG
antibodies—these develop soon after initial infection and remain in the blood
thereafter. Blood tests can also distinguish by type and are known for being
more accurate. Be aware that it takes time for the human body to develop
antibodies, and thus the medical community recommends waiting 12 to 16 weeks from
the last possible date of exposure to ensure detectable levels. Consult your
doctor to find out which herpes blood test is best for you—there are several
varieties, each catering to different use patterns, patient characteristics,
and results windows.
Alternate Tests
A few alternate methods of herpes
testing exist. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests are highly sensitive and
superior to viral cultures, but they aren't yet readily available. Expect to
see advances in this technology in the near future. Viral antigen tests are
accurate only in the initial outbreak and have similar availability problems.
Finally, the Tzanck herpes test relies on health care providers' judgment
calls, a less rigorous and regulated protocol.
New York City residents, don't hesitate
to contact STD Center NY to ask about herpes 2 testing NYC. They offer unrivaled, board-certified medical attention for
all of your questions, concerns, or inquiries. Just blocks from Grand Central
Station and easily accessible by train or bus, STD Center NY features
affordable, private, state-of-the-art herpes testing services. Call
1-212-696-5900 for an appointment or log onto STD testing NYC for more information. Make a commitment to better
health!
