Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.
Dr. Chadha begins by exploring your medical background, outbreak frequency, sexual history, and potential triggers.
He inspects any visible blisters or sores to determine stage and severity of the outbreak.
If an active lesion is present, a swab is taken for PCR or culture to confirm HSV infection and identify the type.
Serologic tests detect HSV-1 and HSV-2 antibodies, useful when sores are not visible or for confirming past exposure.
Based on lab results and exam findings, Dr. Chadha crafts a tailored treatment strategy to manage symptoms and reduce recurrences.
Dr. Rishi Chadha, MD is a board‑certified gastroenterologist who specializes in preventive gastroenterology, colorectal cancer screening, and minimally invasive endoscopic procedures. He completed his fellowship at Sunrise Health GME in Las Vegas and previously trained in internal medicine at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Connecticut.
HSV-1 usually affects the mouth; HSV-2 usually affects the genitals. Both types can occur in either area.
The virus stays in nerve cells for life. With treatment, outbreaks can become milder and less frequent.
Look for blisters or ulcers in the genital area. A swab or blood test from Dr. Chadha's office confirms the diagnosis.
Yes. Blood tests distinguish antibodies for each type, and swab tests identify the active virus during an outbreak.
Men may notice pain during urination, itching, or fluid-filled blisters on the penis or scrotum.
Yes. Asymptomatic viral shedding can occur. Using condoms and daily antiviral medication lowers the risk of transmission.
A low-arginine, high-lysine diet can help. Foods like yogurt, fish, and legumes support immune health and may reduce outbreak frequency.
First outbreaks may last 2-3 weeks. Recurrences often heal in 1-2 weeks with antiviral therapy.
Most people tolerate antiviral pills well. Mild headaches or nausea can occur, and Dr. Chadha adjusts treatment if needed.
Yes. With proper antiviral therapy and careful management during delivery, risks to newborns are very low.
