[Question #6450] HSV -1 Recurrance after 10 years
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67 months ago
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I’m a healthy 34-year-old male and 10 years ago I was diagnosed with
genital HSV 1. I had a typical initial outbreak with soreness, legions, etc. At
that time, I was devastated and when I sought information I landed on a webpage
where Dr. Handsfield answered some questions that have helped me get though.
Since that time 10 years ago, I have largely completely forgot that I have genital
HSV 1. No outbreaks… out of sight out of mind. I recently developed what I
think (still not 100% sure) may be a second outbreak. That has me re-living the
depression all over again and I’m back to get more information on the topic. I’m
curious about
1) Since I had gone 10 years with no outbreaks, is
it strange that I now have one?
2) More importantly, what do you think my chances,
or likelihood, of having future outbreaks are?
3) Since I went 10 years, is it realistic to say
that its probably going to be another 10 years, at least, before I see this again?
Since that time 10 years ago, life has been good. I’m married (she has HSV1- we think she gave it to me), have a super successful career, and two happy, healthy daughters. But, while it may be irrational, I fear a day when my wife may not be with me and I have to face this without her. After forgetting all about this, the psychological effect came roaring back.
Answers to the above questions, with any other stats or thoughts, are greatly appreciated. I’m trying to put this back in its box and move on.
Lastly, thank you so very much for what you do!
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Terri Warren, RN, Nurse Practitioner
67 months ago
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I'm so sorry this has been bothering you lately.
1) Since I had gone 10 years with no outbreaks, is
it strange that I now have one?
Not really. HSV 1 recurs rarely when it is genital. this is very normal and it says nothing about your future with outbreaks.
2) More importantly, what do you think my chances,
or likelihood, of having future outbreaks are?
I think you may have an outbreak now and then in the future, yes, rarely, as before
Perhaps, yes.
Remember that half the population has this and if for some reason you and your wife don't stay together, it is likely that a new person would also have HSV 1.
And once a person has had HSV 1 genital infection for at least two years, they only shed virus on average 4 days out of an entire year! So very good news.
Terri
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