mr_hopp

Hey there @James.d, It seems like you've got a bit of a confusing situation with those test results. I'll do my best to clear things up for you! Firstly, IgG and IgM are types of antibodies your body produces in response to an infection. IgM is usually the first to appear and can indicate a recent infection, whereas IgG develops later on and can indicate a past infection or a more mature immune response. Now, about the discrepancies between the two lab tests: 1. HSV-1 IgG Positive in Lab1 vs. Negative in Lab2: Lab results can vary due to different testing methods or sensitivity levels used by the labs. A low positive IgG result, like a 1.23 index, can sometimes be a false positive, especially if it's near the cutoff point which is typically around 1.1. The fact that Lab2's result was below the cutoff supports the possibility of a false positive from Lab1 or a borderline result that could be interpreted differently by different labs. 2. HSV-2 IgG Negative in both labs: This is consistent across both tests and suggests that you haven't been exposed to HSV-2, or at least your body hasn't produced a detectable level of antibodies to it. 3. HSV-1/2 IgM Negative in both labs: Negative IgM in both labs suggests that you likely didn't have a recent infection at the time of testing. 4. Timing of the Blood Test Processing (4 days after blood draw): This is typically not an issue. Blood samples can be stored for several days before testing, as long as they're kept under the right conditions. Laboratories have protocols for the storage and timing of tests to ensure accuracy. So, what to make of all this? You might consider the first Lab1 result to be either a low positive or a false positive, especially since Lab2's result was negative. It would be reasonable to follow up with another test a bit later to see if there's a clear trend in your IgG levels. If you continue to get mixed results or borderline positives, there might be a need to go for more specific confirmatory tests, such as the Western blot test, which is considered the gold standard for herpes testing due to its high accuracy. Remember, while forums and advice like this can provide guidance, they're no substitute for a medical professional's opinion, especially when it comes to interpreting test results in the context of your health history and symptoms. It's always best to discuss these results and next steps with a healthcare provider who can give you tailored advice. Hope this clears up some of the confusion for you!

Hey there @Gemms28, You’re asking some great questions about HSV-2 and the use of antivirals in a discordant couple (where one partner is positive and the other negative). Let’s break this down! When people mention that medication must be taken over a long period of time, they’re referring to the fact that antivirals for HSV are most effective when taken consistently, especially as suppressive therapy. This doesn’t mean that the medication isn’t effective immediately; rather, its best effect on reducing viral shedding and therefore transmission risk accumulates over time with consistent use. It takes around 5 days before the medication starts having an effect on decreasing asymptomatic viral shedding to protect partners. As for you, as someone who’s currently HSV negative, taking antiviral medications prophylactically (before exposure or diagnosis) isn’t standard practice and might not be recommended by most healthcare providers. The reason is that these medications are typically reserved for treating or preventing outbreaks in those who are already infected or have a high chance of becoming symptomatic. For your partner, even without outbreaks, he can still have asymptomatic viral shedding. Resuming daily antiviral therapy would reduce the risk of transmission even if he’s asymptomatic (by at least 50%). The decision to restart medication is something he should discuss with his doctor, considering both his health and the potential benefit to you. But overall, all antiviral medications that are prescribed for herpes are well-tolerated for most people even over the long term. (I for one have been taking twice daily acyclovir to protect my wife for many years.) Ultimately, the best strategy for you two might involve a combination of his antiviral use, you both being informed about the signs and symptoms of HSV outbreaks, and possibly avoiding contact during times of prodrome. You’re taking a proactive and caring approach by educating yourself and considering these factors in your relationship. That’s commendable. Remember to have this dialogue with healthcare professionals who can provide personalized advice for both of you. Take care and best of luck with your relationship!

Hi there @Confusedanddepressed, Managing herpes alongside an autoimmune disease can indeed be challenging, as the autoimmune condition can complicate your body's ability to suppress the virus, leading to more frequent outbreaks. It's great that you're on daily antivirals for suppression; that's a solid foundation. Now, as for supplements to support your immune system, here's a rundown of what some people find helpful: Lysine: This amino acid is a favorite in the H community. It competes with arginine (another amino acid) which the herpes virus uses to replicate. Keeping a higher lysine-to-arginine ratio can potentially help reduce outbreak frequency. Zinc: Known for its immune-boosting properties, zinc can help control outbreaks by bolstering the immune system's response to the herpes virus. Vitamin C and E: Both are antioxidants that can support immune health. Vitamin C also helps with skin healing, which can be beneficial during an outbreak. Probiotics: There's some evidence that a healthy gut microbiome can influence overall immune health, so probiotics might be worth considering. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil supplements, omega-3s have anti-inflammatory properties that could potentially help with autoimmune issues and overall immune function. Now, timing for intimacy can be a bit of a guessing game with frequent outbreaks, but the key is communication with your partner and paying close attention to prodrome symptoms (like tingling or itching before an outbreak). That's your cue to avoid contact. Finally, always chat with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially considering your autoimmune diagnosis. They can give you the best advice tailored to your particular health picture. Stay strong, and remember that with some careful management and good communication, you can maintain a healthy relationship without transmitting herpes. Hang in there and keep us posted!

Hey there @overwhelmedSarah34, First off, it's absolutely okay to feel overwhelmed when new symptoms pop up, especially when you're already juggling with H. Let's parse through what's going on and see if we can't alleviate some of that anxiety. It's not uncommon to have an immune response to vaccines (like the Covid booster or the flu shot), which can, unfortunately, sometimes trigger an H outbreak. Your immune system is momentarily busy building up defenses against what was in the vaccines, which can give the herpes virus an opportunity to become active. But here's the reassuring bit: this doesn't mean you're back to square one. Your body is still building up a defense against herpes—it's just been temporarily sidetracked. The new sore spot, backache, and stomach aches could be related to your immune system's response to the vaccines, and the tingling in your hands might be due to your immune system being in overdrive. It’s not uncommon to experience some strange symptoms as your body reacts to a vaccine. As for "unlocking a worse form of the virus," it doesn't really work that way. You have GHSV-1, and the strain doesn't change or become "worse" because of a vaccine. These symptoms should diminish as your immune system calms down after reacting to the vaccines. Keep taking your antivirals, stay hydrated, get plenty of rest, and try to manage stress as best you can. Your body has made progress in the past six months, and a vaccine booster doesn’t negate that progress. It's totally natural to feel anxious when your routine is disrupted by something like this. Maybe try some relaxation techniques, like deep breathing or meditation, and keep an open dialogue with your healthcare provider about your symptoms. Remember, these new symptoms are likely temporary. They’re your body’s way of saying, "Hey, I’m working hard down here!" And it’s doing exactly what it’s supposed to do. Hang in there, and don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for reassurance or if your symptoms persist. Sending you all the best and a big virtual hug! Keep us posted on your progress, okay?

Hey there @Struggling Kudos to you for reaching out and seeking answers—it's super important to be informed, especially when dealing with a condition that can sometimes feel like it's got too many question marks around it. Let's tackle your questions one by one. Labiaplasty & Herpes Risk: Smart move on starting antivirals as a precaution. Surgical procedures in areas prone to herpes outbreaks can potentially provoke an outbreak due to the stress on the tissue. But, since you've been upfront with your surgeon—that's fantastic. It reduces the risk because they can ensure the procedure is as gentle as possible on the tissue and can avoid the outbreak area. Spreading to other genital sites due to the surgery is not a typical complication, especially if you're not having an active outbreak. The key will be to monitor closely post-op and continue those antivirals as your doctor advises. Oral Sex Safety: Good news here. If you've got genital herpes and you're giving oral sex, you're not going to transmit genital herpes to your partner's genitals. Genital herpes affects your, well, genitals, and it's not going to jump from there to your mouth just because you're engaging in oral play. Of course, if you ever do experience any kind of sores or symptoms orally, then there is a risk of passing it to your partner (which would be a risk you would share with the majority of the world since the overwhelming majority of the world gets cold sores). Fingering, Touching, & Transmission: Daily antivirals and no active outbreak significantly reduce the risk of transmission, but it's never zero. If you're on suppressive therapy and you have no signs of an outbreak, the risk is quite low for your partner to contract herpes from non-penetrative activities. Regarding him touching himself afterward, the virus doesn't survive long on the skin, especially not on hands that are likely to be much drier and tougher than mucous membranes. Washing hands after intimate contact is always a good practice, for multiple reasons, and would reduce that already low risk even further. Remember, this is all based on the general medical consensus, but everyone's situation can have its own nuances, so staying in close contact with your healthcare provider is the best way to navigate this. Herpes is indeed wrapped in unnecessary stigma, but remember—you're managing it, you're taking precautions, and you're being responsible. That's commendable and nothing short of what anyone should expect in terms of sexual health management. Props to you! Wishing you all the best with your surgery and journey forward!

If the lumps popped up after a kissing encounter and you’re concerned about HSV2, let's lay down some facts. Like you said, oral HSV2 is rare. It's predominantly associated with genital infections and it's pretty uncommon to find it causing oral issues. But, in the spirit of keeping an open mind and considering all angles, if she had never had an outbreak, the risk of transmission would generally be considered lower. These lumps you’re talking about—since they’re not painful, they might not be herpes-related. There are a bunch of other reasons you might find lumps in the back of your throat, ranging from benign cysts to reactions to an infection. Unfortunately it's impossible to diagnose this with a forum chat, and neither can I (especially since I'm not a doc). Your best bet is to check in with a doctor about it. They can assess what’s going on, maybe run a test or two if they think it’s necessary, and give you the peace of mind you're likely looking for. Might involve a throat swab, which isn't very comfortable, but will give you a definitive result. And just a side note—keep an eye on your stress levels, too. Stress can sometimes cause or exacerbate symptoms, especially in your throat. Try to take it easy while you're sorting this out. Stay proactive and get it checked!

Hey again @JJlove, That's a very astute line of thinking! You're right on: Your body is currently in the midst of figuring out how to handle this new invader, and it's no small task for the immune system. It's like your body's defense force is mobilizing for the first time against this particular virus, and that can take a toll on your energy levels. The absence of detectable antibodies early on is expected because it can take several weeks to a few months for your body to produce antibodies in response to the virus, which will then be identifiable through a blood test. This period is often called seroconversion. Once your immune system ramps up and starts producing these antibodies, they'll help in controlling the virus's activity, which might lessen the frequency and severity of outbreaks and the associated prodrome symptoms you're experiencing. Many people report an improvement in their general well-being after this initial phase passes, as their bodies become more adept at managing the virus. It’s also plausible that the continuous feeling of prodrome symptoms could be your immune system in a heightened state of alert. Once it learns to recognize and fight HSV2 more efficiently, there's a possibility that these constant prodrome sensations will decrease. Just remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. Giving your body time to adjust, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and staying connected with your healthcare provider are all important parts of managing HSV and fibromyalgia. Each step forward, even the tiny ones, are progress. Hang in there and keep track of how you're feeling. It's a great way to notice improvements over time and to discuss them with your doctor. And as always, we're here for you. Sending you positive energy and wishing you resilience on this journey!

Hey @JJlove! About those atypical outbreaks: HSV is honestly a chameleon. Although it mostly presents as a fluid-filled sore, it can in various ways for different folks. The tiny red bump you described can be an HSV symptom for some. The key is to recognize your body's own pattern and, over time, you'll become a pro at navigating it. The culture test being positive is a pretty definitive sign of an active HSV infection. Blood tests can sometimes take a while to show antibodies, so a negative result shortly after exposure isn't uncommon. But if the culture came back positive, it does indicate an active HSV infection. Your concerns about fibromyalgia and the potential interaction with HSV2 are valid. There have been reports of individuals with other health issues, like fibromyalgia, experiencing more pronounced symptoms or fatigue when dealing with an HSV outbreak. The body can sometimes see a tug-of-war when managing two conditions. It's important to ensure you're taking good care of your overall health - balanced diet, rest, managing stress, and staying hydrated, all the stuff you already know, of course. De-stressing and taking care of yourself as much as you're able can help mitigate the intensity of flare-ups from either condition. Lastly, do remember that your body, like all of ours, is an incredible machine. It's adaptive and resilient. It'll learn to handle HSV2 in its own way. And while the initial stages can be overwhelming and riddled with concerns, over time, you'll find your rhythm and learn how to best care for your unique health landscape. Stay strong!

Hey there @JJlove, (By the way, I've seen you supporting others here. Thank you for giving back already! That is a huge part of healing: helping others going through the same thing!) First off, I'm genuinely sorry you're going through this shock, but remember, you're not alone and there's a huge community here to back you up and share experiences. Let's tackle the auto-inoculation fear: the idea of spreading the virus to another part of your body can be unsettling, but in reality, the chances are pretty low, especially if you're aware and cautious. Here's the lowdown: auto-inoculation usually happens when you touch an active outbreak and then touch another part of your body where the skin is thin or there's a cut, making it an easy gateway for the virus. Thick parts of our skin that aren't mucous membranes are pretty tough barriers for the virus to break through. You've got the handwashing down – that's your number one defense. So, just keep washing your hands after you touch an outbreak, and you're golden. And here's some good news: Over time, your body generally builds up enough antibodies to defend against auto-inoculation. Your immune system will step up to bat for you. Now, onto the intimacy question: while it's often advised that once the scab falls off, it's generally okay to resume sexual activity, I personally take the extra cautious route. Just to be super sure and put my wife's safety first, I wait an additional week after the last visible symptom clears up. Everyone's comfort level is different, so it's all about what makes you and your partner feel safe. On the H Buddy front, throw a comment up here and search for other people wanting to connect and PM: https://forums.herpesopportunity.com/topic/9776-h-buddies-unite/page/45/#comment-77506 Sending you strength and positive vibes! P.S. It's always a good practice to check in with a medical professional on these concerns. Forums are great for shared experiences, but professional guidance is key.

Hey @worrieduser42, I've got to say, the medical maze can be an absolute whirlwind, can't it? Your experiences and test results are indeed a puzzler, but let's see if we can work through this together ... Your antibody test coming back as negative, especially given the symptoms you've described, might seem a tad bewildering. @JJlove brought up a noteworthy point about the timeline of antibodies showing up in blood work. A good rule of thumb that many professionals actually suggest is waiting at least 12 weeks, which is the time it takes for most people's immune systems to produce a detectable amount of antibodies (if they do have herpes, of course). On the topic of the valacyclovir (Valtrex by its brand name), it's odd that you feel worse before getting better on it. It might be worth discussing with your doctor about potentially adjusting your treatment or exploring other alternatives. There's also Acyclovir and Famvir as alternatives to try. Now, about the culture taken today: it should ideally provide more clarity. Cultures typically have a higher chance of giving accurate results when taken from an active sore (if the specimen was collected correctly with enough biological matter). From NIH: "Ideally, the sample should be taken from a vesicular lesion that has been present for less than 24 h because once the lesion has begun to crust, the test sensitivity will decline ... While the test has 100% specificity for HSV-1 or HSV-2, the sensitivity depends on the stage of the lesion at the time of specimen collection. The sensitivity also varies from 75% for first episodes to 50% for recurrences." @JJlove's advice to go back for another blood test in a month seems sound. In the meantime, if any fresh symptoms pop up, it might be a good idea to get them swabbed, as they also suggested. Take care and hang in there!

Hey there @Dpcpt, I totally get the anxiety and frustration you're experiencing! Navigating these health concerns can be super confusing (they certainly were for me!), especially when there isn't a clear consensus from healthcare professionals. I'll share some insights, keeping in mind that nothing beats direct consultation with a specialist. HSV Testing: The reluctance of doctors to test for herpes unless there's an active, typical-looking outbreak is not uncommon. HSV blood tests can be controversial because they might detect past exposure rather than current infections. They can also sometimes yield false positives. IgG tests are the most common to test the blood for herpes antibodies, but the gold standard is the Western Blot, although it costs more. Symptoms: While herpes can sometimes present as atypical symptoms, the presence of pimple-like bumps that pop with white pus and heal the next day doesn't align with typical herpes sores. Herpes lesions tend to form ulcers, and the fluid inside is generally clear, not pus-filled. Also, herpes outbreaks tend to reduce in frequency over time, not persist as you've described. Rash Duration: Chronic, lingering rashes aren't typical of herpes. Herpes outbreaks have a more distinct pattern: onset, peak, and healing. A persistent rash might be indicative of another skin condition. Condoms and Protection: You're right; while condoms reduce the risk of many STIs, they don't eliminate the risk entirely. Locations not covered by the condom can still be exposed. HPV & HSV Co-Infection: While it's possible to be co-infected with both viruses, one doesn't necessarily exacerbate the other. They're distinct viruses with separate mechanisms. Photos and Diagnosis: On these forums, we don't want to be diagnosing via pictures since 1) we aren't doctors and 2) it's even hard for doctors to diagnose when not in person. If you still feel uneasy, seeking a third opinion or visiting a dermatologist might be worthwhile. Remember, you know your body best. If something feels off, it's okay to seek further consultation. It's also worth noting that stress and anxiety can sometimes amplify or even cause physical symptoms. I truly hope things get clearer for you soon. Hang in there!

The vast majority of oral herpes cases (literally 98%) are HSV-1, so chance of oral HSV-2 transmission is super unlikely.

Hey @Questions I get where you're coming from – diving into the world of potential health risks can be a rabbit hole. Let's break it down: HSV-2 and kissing: So, HSV-2 is mainly a genital thing, and its transmission through just kissing, especially without any visible symptoms, is really quite rare. Touching and transmission: As for touching her and then touching yourself, HSV-2 generally needs direct skin-to-skin contact to hop aboard. The scenario you painted, while understandable in causing you anxiety, is low risk. Interpreting the test: Positive HSV-2 IgG? It means she's come into contact with the virus before, but it doesn't mean she's actively spreading it. A lot of folks test positive without ever showing a sign. Even though transmitting herpes can happen without any signs or symptoms (asymptomatic viral shedding), in your case there wasn't the kind of sexual friction that can generally lead to transmission. But hey, if this keeps you up at night, don't hesitate to consult with a medical professional. Sometimes, just hearing it from them directly is the best comfort. Stay safe and take care! P.S. Here's another recent forum post from someone with a similar question/context:

Hi @LovelyB91! You might consider reaching out to Terri Warren. She knows her stuff, being on the front lines of a lot of this herpes research and seeing patients for decades now.

Hi @Soupdujour! It's great that you've reached out here for advice and support. First and foremost, remember that you're in a safe and nonjudgmental space here, and your questions and concerns are totally valid. Regarding your situation, it's important to understand that testicular pain can have various causes, and it doesn't necessarily mean you've contracted HSV2. People can experience testicular discomfort for a variety of reasons, and it's crucial not to jump to conclusions. However, it's also wise to monitor any unusual symptoms and seek medical advice if they persist or worsen. As @montereypop mentioned, prodrome symptoms for HSV can vary quite a bit among herpes-havers. The first outbreak (if it even occurs — 20% of HSV-carriers never have a physical outbreak) is typically the most severe and often comes with noticeable sores or lesions. It's good that you've undergone testing for STIs/STDs, but it's essential to keep in mind that HSV blood tests require at least 12 weeks to become accurate like you said (so enough antibodies can build up in the bloodstream to become detectable on a test). So, consider getting retested after the appropriate waiting period to confirm your status. As for your mouth question, HSV-2 is rarely transmitted orally (only 2% of all oral herpes cases are HSV-2), so it's a very low probability that she would have transmitted it to you via her mouth to your genitals. And since viral shedding generally gets passed via direct skin-to-skin stimulation, the possibility of it being hopping from her to you based on your friend carrying HSV is slim to none. In any case, I recommend keeping open communication with your friend and the girl involved, as they might have valuable insights or information to share. If your symptoms persist or become concerning, consult a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation. Remember, like you also said, anxiety can sometimes amplify physical sensations, so try to stay as calm as possible while awaiting test results and further guidance. We're here for you!

Ah yes, now I see from your posts above that you said your wife was positive, too. Sorry I missed that. 🙂 I've been on daily suppressive therapy (Acyclovir, 400mg twice a day) for about a decade. No side effects for me. Of course my wife didn't take any herpes meds while pregnant since she doesn't have herpes, but Acyclovir and Valacyclovir (Valtrex) have been shown to be safe for babies and pregnancy. Your wife might want to consider taking the meds during the last trimester to minimize the possibility of having a genital outbreak before giving birth (which would require a C-section), but consult with your doctor for more specifics! Here's an article to check out on that: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3076471 In short: Question: One of my patients is a pregnant woman in her first trimester with a history of recurrent genital herpes. She is concerned about whether use of her antiviral medication will adversely affect her baby. What should I tell her? Answer: Studies have shown that the use of acyclovir or valacyclovir is not associated with an increase in birth defects. Limited data exist for famciclovir and therefore it would not be considered a first-line choice for treatment of herpes during pregnancy.

I completely understand your frustration, @worrieduser42! Dealing with recurrent herpes outbreaks can be challenging and unpredictable. The way the virus behaves can vary from person to person — and even within the same individual. And it's important to note, that for most people (regardless of the frequency and intensity of herpes outbreaks), they tend to die down dramatically after around a year. That's also what happened for me. Stress is a known trigger for herpes outbreaks, so the timing of your symptoms after a performance review makes sense. It's like your immune system is weakened during periods of stress, allowing the virus to become more active. The waxing and waning of symptoms can be perplexing. It's possible that during the calm periods, your immune system is suppressing the virus effectively. But when it becomes more active, the virus manages to overcome this defense temporarily. The use of creams like Abreva and antiviral medications can help manage and alleviate symptoms during outbreaks (and daily suppressive therapy can help stave off outbreaks altogether since it brings down viral shedding 50-80%). Remember that herpes outbreaks can vary in severity, and sometimes, they can be more persistent than others. Staying on top of your overall health, managing stress, and having a healthy diet can help strengthen your immune system and potentially reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks. Don't hesitate to reach out to your doctor if you continue to experience recurring and bothersome outbreaks. They can provide more specific guidance and possibly adjust your treatment plan to better manage the virus.

Hi @freestyyle1983! It's great to see you taking a responsible and informed approach to this situation. It's totaly possible to have a healthy and fulfilling relationship when one partner has herpes and the other doesn't (called "serodiscordant"). In fact, my wife and I have been together for a decade and she hasn't gotten herpes yet (and we have a kid together). Communication and precautions are key. Wearing condoms is a good start as they do provide some level of protection. Daily antiviral medication can also significantly reduce the risk of transmission because it brings down the rate of asymptomatic viral shedding (by 50-80%). Discussing this with your partner and ensuring she's taking the prescribed medication is a wise move. In addition to condoms and antivirals, it's essential to be aware about any signs of an outbreak on your partner. Avoiding intimate contact during an outbreak can further reduce the risk of transmission. Also important for her to be aware of any potential prodrome symptoms and abstain from sex during those times as that may be a signal that an outbreak is coming. There are many positive stories of couples where one partner has HSV2, and they have been in long-term relationships without transmission. It's a matter of understanding the virus, taking precautions, and being supportive of each other. Remember, while there's a risk, it's not a guarantee that you'll contract HSV2. Especially since you're a man, you actually are 50% less likely than a woman to get herpes (the penis has less mucous membrane than the vagina, so more barrier to entry). Even without any medication or barrier protection, there is a 10% chance of passing herpes to a woman, and 4% chance to a man (per year). With medication and protection, it brings the chances of transmission down to 2.5% to women and 1% to men. See the free ebook and handouts for more details on transmission rates. (For comparison’s sake ... There’s a 2-15% chance of unintended pregnancy with condoms and a 1.8% chance of death from a car accident.) So yeah, it's a smaller chance than we might initially assume. Many couples successfully manage the situation and have loving, fulfilling relationships. In fact, when I first got herpes, I thought herpes would be a big brick wall to intimacy. It's been anything but. It's actually been more of a doorway to vulnerability, openness and trust with my partner. Go figure. So keep the lines of communication open with your partner, stay informed, and make decisions together that you're both comfortable with. Enjoy!

Thanks for sharing this @montereypop! What isn't captured in this is that daily suppressive therapy helps keep partners who don't have herpes safer since it cuts down on asymptomatic shedding by 50-80%, which is a super important consideration! That is the only reason I have kept taking my daily suppressive Acyclovir is to keep my wife from getting herpes. It's a personal choice for everyone to weigh all the pros and cons and make an informed decision.

Riveting Ted Talk @worrieduser42! 😉 Your approach to getting follow-up bloodwork and consulting a dermatologist is a solid proactive step. Sometimes symptoms can be challenging to pin down — a lot of Venn diagram overlaps for sure! — and it takes a combination of tests and specialist insights to get a clearer picture. The sensations you've described do sound unusual for herpes, and it's good to expand your view to explore various potential causes. While it's good to stay informed, remember that Dr. Google can be a paranoia monster and lead you down a rabbit hole of worry! Sounds like your healthcare team is on the case and will help ground you. The symptom diary idea is excellent. It can help you track patterns and possibly identify triggers, which could be valuable information for your healthcare peeps. I know waiting for answers can be tough, but hang in there. Keep communicating openly with your medical team, and hopefully, you'll get the clarity you're seeking soon. Keep us updated!

Hey there @americanamadan! Navigating the world of herpes can be a bit perplexing, especially when it comes to those IGG levels. IGG levels can vary from person to person, and they can change over time. High IGG levels often indicate a strong immune response to the virus, which is generally a good thing. It means your body is working hard to keep the virus in check. However, in some cases, consistently high IGG levels might warrant further investigation. It could be due to factors like a recent outbreak or a particularly active immune response, which might not necessarily indicate an issue. Stress, illness, and even diet can influence these levels. If your doctor isn't overly concerned, that's generally a positive sign. But if you're still worried or if these high levels persist, consider discussing it with a specialist like Terri Warren. They can provide a more detailed evaluation and help address any lingering questions or concerns. Remember, your body has been handling this virus for quite a while, and while it might throw the occasional curveball, you've got a pretty resilient immune system on your side. Keep managing your outbreaks as you have been, and don't hesitate to reach out to a specialist for further peace of mind. 😊

Hi @bd2nbo, I'm really glad you reached out to the community for support and information. Dealing with herpes can be challenging, but you're not alone in this journey. 1. "Phantom" nerve pain is something that many people with herpes experience. It's often described as a tingling, burning, or discomfort in the areas where you've had outbreaks before. While it can be unsettling, it doesn't necessarily mean that a full-blown outbreak is imminent. The suppressive medication you're taking can help reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks, but it might not eliminate these sensations entirely. It's essential to continue taking your medication as prescribed, even when you're feeling these symptoms, to help keep the virus in check. Transmission risk is lower when you're on suppressive therapy, but it's not zero. (Generally it lessens viral shedding by 50-80%, which is hugely helpful in minimizing transmission). It's still possible to transmit the virus to a partner, especially if you have intimate contact during an outbreak or when you're experiencing prodrome sensations. Using protection and having an open conversation with your partner about your herpes status is crucial. 2. Finding a knowledgeable and trustworthy doctor is essential when managing herpes. It can be frustrating when you feel like your healthcare provider isn't giving you the guidance you need. Unfortunately I hear about this a lot. There are just so many doctors who are just ignorant about how to treat herpes, and some who are outright stigmatized. Oof. For medical advice from a true professional, I always suggest booking a time with Terri Warren or asking questions on her forums; she's super knowledgeable in all things herpes. As far as finding a local doctor, don't hesitate to literally interview doctors on the phone to get a sense of how much they know about herpes or if they are awkward or throw any sort of stigma or shade in answering any herpes-related questions. You're making great strides in your journey of acceptance and self-love. Keep reaching out for support, and remember that you have a community here to help you along the way. 😊

Hi @brown-eyes! I completely understand your concerns and frustrations about disclosing your herpes status to potential partners. It's a situation that many people with herpes can relate to. You're absolutely right; having herpes doesn't define you, and it shouldn't overshadow all the wonderful qualities that make you who you are. @montereypop provided some excellent insights, especially about the timing of disclosure. It can indeed vary depending on your dating environment and your comfort level. There's no one-size-fits-all approach, but finding a balance that works for you is key. My answer to "when do I disclose?" has always been "When you feel you can trust this person with your vulnerability." That's huge. And it goes a long way to being an amazingly helpful filter to help weed out any potential crazies or those in it for the wrong reasons. While it might feel daunting to bring up the topic, remember that disclosing your herpes status is a responsible and honest step. It's about letting someone get to know you for who you are, including this part of your life. You're not a walking dealbreaker; you're a person with a lot to offer. And you might be surprised by how often an honest and vulnerable disclosure conversation opens the other person up to be vulnerable themselves, which opens up a whole lot of connection. One approach that many find helpful is having a conversation before things get too serious emotionally or physically. This gives both you and your potential partner the space to make informed decisions about your relationship. Honesty and openness can go a long way in building trust. One of my favorites is having a "pre-disclosure" ... here's a quick video on that: https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/the-pre-disclosure-before-the-talk And here's a whole slew of other videos I've made that should help answer a lot of the questions you brought up: https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/when-do-i-have-the-herpes-talk https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/how-to-be-fully-present-for-the-herpes-talk https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/herpes-talk-to-script-or-not-to-script https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/vulnerability-as-strength-in-herpes-disclosure https://www.herpesopportunity.com/post/herpes-rejection-as-a-relationship-filter Lastly, don't lose hope, for gosh sake! There are people out there who not only will accept you for who you are, but see your deep beauty and say "Ah, I found her! The diamond in the ruff!" 🥳 In other words, it's not herpes that's going to ultimately divorce you from finding love; but your open-hearted vulnerability will be an electromagnet to the kind of man who is ready for a real relationship. Finding the right partner might take time, but when you do, you'll know that they appreciate you for your honesty and the amazing person you are. And that is the stuff that builds true, long-lasting, deep and intimate relationships. Stay strong, and don't hesitate to reach out if you have more questions or need support along the way. You're not alone in this journey. 💪😊

Hey there @montereypop! Thanks for sharing your experience and questions. It's great to see you looking for help while also wanting to contribute to our community. Much appreciated! Your situation with herpes and medication is a thoughtful one. Valacyclovir, as you know, can be quite effective in managing outbreaks and improving overall well-being. The decision to switch from a daily suppressive therapy back to episodic treatment might have a few reasons. Firstly, doctors often consider the overall health and medical history of the patient when prescribing medications long-term. While valacyclovir is generally considered quite safe over the long term, like any medication, it can have side effects or interactions with other medications you might take. Your doctor may have wanted to reassess your specific case after a year to see if the daily therapy was still the best fit for you. Secondly, herpes medications are typically well-tolerated, and the virus doesn't easily develop resistance to them. However, there might be concerns about long-term use and potential side effects, although these are generally rare. There's also the consideration (assuming your wife doesn't have herpes) of protecting her. Episodic treatment won't do that, but daily suppressive therapy brings down asymptomatic viral shedding anywhere from 50-80%, which is huge in minimizing the chances of transmitting herpes to your partner. Remember, you should make choices that align with your comfort and health needs, while also balancing keeping your partner safe. Whether you continue with daily suppressive therapy or opt for episodic treatment, your family's well-being is the priority. Good luck with your future plans, and congrats on moving into such a sweet phase of life together! Feel free to share more insights or questions with the community as you continue your journey. See you around the forums! 🙌

You're welcome! It's totally understandable that you're eager for this ordeal to be over. Dealing with cold sores/shingles can be quite a journey, and it's true that the first experience can be more intense for some folks. Our bodies can react in unique ways to these viruses, so what you're experiencing may not be entirely out of the ordinary. You're right that Prednisone can sometimes affect the virus, potentially making it more active. But hey, hindsight is 20/20, and you were just following your doctor's advice. Now, you're taking the right steps by adjusting your treatment plan to get this under control. Hang in there, keep up with your healthcare provider's recommendations, and hopefully, this episode will go back into hiding. Here's to better days ahead!