Question:
Does my dr need to know about herpes?

I have herpes and didn't tell my dr. Is it something that he needs to know? Any problems with herpes and surgery?    — [Anonymous] (posted on January 29, 2002)

January 29, 2002
If you were having an active outbreak when your surgery was due, he would need to know. I told my doc about my history, but I am no sure if many do. I did not have an outbreak, but certainly stress can bring one on and what is as stressful as waiting for surgery?The difference in how I was treated in 1982 when I had an outbreak which called for a c-section and nowadays is immense. My baby and I were treated like lepers and had to use isolation procedures. My last child was born in 1991 and they practically acted liek it wasn't a big deal at all!Good Luck! Relax!
   — Molly S.

January 29, 2002
I also have herpes. All my surgeon said was that he needed to know if I had a breakout at the time of surgery. Im not sure why, but, he wasnt too concerned. I did have a breakout about a month after surgery. Im sure it was from the stress of the surgery, and the antibiotics they put me on in the hospital. Plus they had me on a liquid form of Valtrex, the first month out, which wasnt as strong as the usual dose I take daily for suppression. Make sure you let him know about your condition. He may have different policies than my surgeon. Good luck and God bless you!
   — [Anonymous]

January 29, 2002
I have corneal herpes. The only way my ophthalamologist would ok my surgery was with the insertion of a g-tube. I increased my Valtrex from once a day to twice aday three days before surgery. I will continue to take it twice aday for at least one month past my surgery date. I haven't missed a dose since my vision is too precious to play with.
   — Frances B.