Question:
Since contracting genital HSV-1 earlier this year, I have had back-to-back outbreaks. I don't think that I've had even 3 days between outbreaks. In addition, I've noticed bumps that come and go on my back, backside, and inner thigh. I think I even had a couple come up on the outsides of my ears. Has anyone else experienced this type of dissemination and chronic outbreaks with Type 1? I can't take Valtrex because of allergic reactions, and I don't have any other illnesses. Also, I've noticed that my menstrual cycles are off. Have any women had this happen to them because of herpes?

Answer:
I think I have similiar chronic HSV1 symptoms- but I have had any actual outbreaks. Just a never ending burn/itch in my arse (see 8 month itch post). Interestingly enough, my ears have itched recenty (just the lobes). But, I attribute this to stress. Before I was diagnosed with HSV1 I worried I had other diseases like HIV due to the symptoms. In retrospect, I tricked myself in believing I had certain symptoms. Stress can be rough on your body. Also, when I was young a very close person died in my family. I was so depressed that red itchy bumps formed all over my hands. This proved the mental health and body health relationship to me.

My advice is to wait until someone professional diagnosis you. It is not the easiest advice to follow, but stressing out and self-diagnosing caused me much more harm then help. Good luck.

Answer:
I would say I have Chronic HSV1... Not a week goes by without any symptoms...(all over my face) and yes, I have seen some on my ears as well. I tried Valtrex for 6 months and have recently switched to Famvir. Famvir is worst than Valtrex for me.

I will soon stop medication all together. I am trying to quit smoking first and to stop the cafeine as well. Chocolate is hard but I have reduced the consumption.

I am also seeing a naturopath right now for some alternative natural cleansing products. I can keep you posted if you wish on my results.

Hope this gets better.. Stay strong.

Fonzy