Health Home > Sexual Health & STDs > Other health problems caused by herpes simplex virus

Other health problems caused by herpes simplex virus

Healthwise
By Sandy Jocoy, RN

Did you find this helpful?

Rate this article:
80% of users found this article helpful.

Other areas of the body that can be infected with the herpes virus include:

  • The lips (herpes labialis). These outbreaks, often called cold sores or fever blisters, are usually mild but may be treated with antiviral medications if they become severe or more frequent.
  • The hands and fingers (herpetic whitlow). Plastic or rubber gloves prevent its spread.
  • The anus (herpes proctitis). Herpes proctitis is often more severe than other types of genital herpes.
  • The eyes (herpes keratitis). Herpes can be transmitted from the mouth or genitals to the eyes. This can cause blindness if it is not treated early. If your eye is very irritated or if you feel pain in your eye, see your doctor as soon as possible.
  • Infection of the fluid (cerebrospinal fluid, or CSF) and tissues (meninges) that surround the brain and spinal cord. Such infections include:
    • Meningitis.
    • Encephalitis.
    • Inflammation of the lower spinal cord and surrounding nerves, possibly resulting in an inability to urinate, constipation, and loss of feeling and muscle strength in the legs.
  • Widespread infection, including viral infections of the liver, lungs, and joints. This occurs mostly in people who have impaired immune systems.

Credits

Author Sandy Jocoy, RN
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Jeanne Marrazzo, MD, MPH - Infectious Disease
Last Updated January 13, 2009
Last Updated: 01/13/2009

Health Resources

help

Featured Expert

Yahoo! Experts share their tips and advice
See All Yahoo Experts »

Yahoo! Health Groups

Join the Conversation

Join a Yahoo! Group and discuss with other memebers in the group. Share tips and experiences

See All Yahoo Groups »

Tip of the Day

Provided by: RealAgeNov 5, 2009

Piling your favorite sandwich fixings on the right kind of bread could mean healthier blood pressure. The right choice? One hundred percent whole-grain.

Read More »

View All Tips »