How Long Can Genital Herpes Lay Dormant?

Posted on Fri, 4 Nov 2016

Question: Hi I went to a urologist yesterday and was more than surprised when he diagnosed my problem as possible herpes. I have NOT been sexually active--have been with only one person for ore than two years plus I'm 67 years old. He prescribed Valacyclovir for me. My question is how long can Herpes be dormant? The last time I was more "active" was 10+ years ago

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (24 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Photograph required

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for the query.
I would like to know whether he diagnosed it as herpes simplex or zoster.
Herpes virus can stay in body life long.
I would also like to see a photograph of the involved area.
This will help me in giving a closer diagnosis and better way of management.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (1 hour later)

The urologist said Herpes. Is there an email address where I can send the photo? I'm having difficulty attaching the photo

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (22 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Continue with medication

Detailed Answer:
Hello
You can send the photographs to YYYY@YYYY with subject as ATTN DR XXXXXXX XXXXXXX
You have been prescribed appropiate medication.
Continue with that.
Waiting for your response.
Thank you.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (1 hour later)

pic send suggest

Answered by Dr. Dr. Rahul Kumar (22 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Folliculitis

Detailed Answer:
Hello
Thanks for the photograph.
I can see pus filled lesions which is rare in herpes.
It's looking like folliculitis a bacterial infection.
Can you please upload a better photograph of the involved area.
The photograph uploaded is not very clear.
Waiting for your response.
Thank you.

Note: Consult a Sexual Diseases Specialist online for further follow up- Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T