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HSV
Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) causes recurrent oral or genital sores affecting millions worldwide. At GastroDoxs in Houston, Dr. Scott provides personalized diagnosis and treatment plans, combining antiviral medications, lifestyle recommendations, and supportive care to manage outbreaks effectively and enhance well-being.
For more information about herpes, visit the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/std/herpes
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
Skin-to-skin contact during an active outbreak
Oral, vaginal, or anal sex with an infected partner
Sharing lip balm, razors, or eating utensils
Weakened immune system due to stress or illness
Most adults have HSV-1 by age 30
Signs and Symptoms
Painful blisters or sores on the lips, mouth, genitals, or rectum
Burning, tingling, or itching before sores appear
Fever, body aches, or swollen lymph glands
In men, pain in the penis or testicles (HSV-2)
First outbreaks are often more severe than later ones
How Dr. Scott Diagnoses This Condition?
Dr. Scott uses a step-by-step approach:
Medical History and Exam
He asks about the onset and amount of bleeding, prior GI symptoms (like ulcers or reflux), alcohol use, NSAID use and any liver disease history. A focused physical exam looks for abdominal tenderness, signs of anemia, or stigmata of chronic liver disease.
Blood Tests
Complete blood count checks for anemia. Coagulation studies (PT/INR) and liver function tests help evaluate bleeding risk and rule out underlying liver dysfunction. H. pylori testing may be ordered if an ulcer is suspected.
Endoscopic Evaluation
Upper endoscopy (EGD) directly visualizes the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum.
During EGD, he can identify ulcers, varices, Mallory-Weiss tears or gastritis.
Therapeutic interventions (clips, banding or injections) can be performed on the spot if active bleeding is seen.
Imaging Studies
CT angiography to localize active bleeding if endoscopy is inconclusive.
Abdominal ultrasound to assess for cirrhosis and portal hypertension.
Advanced Diagnostics (if needed)
In rare or refractory cases, interventional radiology angiography identifies and embolizes bleeding vessels. A capsule endoscopy or tagged red blood cell scan may be used for intermittent bleeding that wasn't captured on initial studies.
Treatment
Our Team offers a full range of care for HSV (Herpes Simplex Virus).
1. Lifestyle and Diet Recommendations
Eating fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to support immune health
Drinking plenty of water and avoiding caffeine and alcohol to reduce outbreak severity
Managing stress through quality sleep, regular movement, or mindfulness practices
Using cool compresses to soothe affected skin during flare-ups
2. Medications
Antiviral pills such as acyclovir or valacyclovir to shorten outbreaks
Daily suppressive therapy for frequent or severe recurrences
Topical creams to relieve mild pain and discomfort at the site of sores
3. In-Office and Advanced Care Options
In-office wound care for active sores, including specialized dressing and pain management
Referral for laser therapy or other advanced treatments in rare, treatment-resistant cases
Dr. Scott Liu, MD, is a board-certified gastroenterologist with over six years of experience and a background in military medicine. He earned his medical degree from the University of Maryland, Baltimore, completed his Internal Medicine residency at Naval Medical Center Portsmouth, and finished his Gastroenterology fellowship through the National Capital Consortium. Dr. Liu provides comprehensive care for a broad range of digestive conditions, including abdominal pain, acid reflux, liver disease, chronic diarrhea, and colon cancer screening. He is a member of the American College of Gastroenterology and is known for his disciplined, patient-focused approach and clear communication.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can HSV-1 cause genital herpes?
Yes. HSV-1 can be passed to the genitals through oral sex.
How long does an outbreak last?
With treatment, most outbreaks last 7 to 10 days. Without treatment, they may last up to 14 days.
Can HSV be cured?
No. But antiviral treatment can help control symptoms and reduce spread.
Can I have children if I have HSV?
Yes. Many people with HSV have healthy pregnancies. Treatment during pregnancy lowers the risk to the baby.
What's the difference between HSV-1 and HSV-2?
HSV-1 mostly causes cold sores. HSV-2 more often causes genital sores. Either virus can infect both areas.
Can HSV spread when no sores are present?
Yes. Even without visible sores, the virus can still be passed through viral shedding.
Do lifestyle habits affect outbreaks?
Yes. Healthy eating, good sleep, and managing stress may reduce how often outbreaks happen.
