Ramona6

I have had an increase in stress over the past few months. One of my parents is very ill and I've been involved in the day-to-day care. Although I knew stress could be a factor in the outbreaks, I guess I didn't consider it possible that it could have so dramatic an effect. My stress has been increasing with each new outbreak though, and I know my anxiety level is impacting my work and relationships, too, which is in turn increasing my stress. Kind of a vicious cycle. Thank you so much for these links - I feel very reassured to have some practical tips for trying to get control of this. I have to say that I was so disappointed in my doctor's reaction to this situation - she seemed to have very little information and almost as little interest in it. Given how scary and isolating this illness can be at times, it was the exact opposite of what a healthcare giver's reaction should be. I'm so glad this forum is here. Thank you for your help and support!

Hi, I've had herpes for more than 15 years. During the first two years I had frequent outbreaks. Over time though, they reduced in frequency and duration - I usually have one or two a year and I felt like I was managing it. I have been on suppressive therapy for about five years and I also take Lysine daily. Two months ago I had a bad outbreak and I have been having nonstop outbreaks since - both in my usual areas and in some new ones. I've gone to my doctor and she doubled my suppressive therapy dose, but I'm continuing to have outbreaks. The doctor doesn't seem to have any additional ideas and I'm terrified. What is going on? Has anyone had any experience with this? I feel like I'm losing my mind. I really need to get a handle on this, but I don't know what to do.

Thank you so much for your response. It happened so fast - the hug and then feeling his hand on my arm - and I've been crazy with worry ever since. I'm usually exceptionally careful about keeping it covered, but it was the end of the outbreak and I was feeling some relief that it was over and I could wear a t-shirt again. I will definitely make use of band-aids in the future. Thank you again for your response and reassurance. Is there a rule of thumb for how long the area should be kept covered to protect others? I usually have marks on the outbreak area with some redness around them for two to three weeks after an outbreak. Is it wise to assume it's contagious throughout that time?

I have had Herpes for over 10 years. I have HSV-2, but mainly get outbreaks on my arms and legs. I recently had an outbreak on my arm. Yesterday, a friend hugged me and put his hand directly on the area of the outbreak. It has been a week since the initial outbreak and the sores (2) were already scabbed over. Does that mean he is at risk for acquiring it? How long are the sores contagious? I am in a complete panic over this. I was up all night last night; I'm sick with worry. I normally would wear long sleeves but it was a hot day and I just wasn't expecting to have any physical contact with anyone. I called my doctor and she didn't have information about that kind of transmission. Please help!