What can trigger the recurrence of genital lesions in individuals with HSV?

The recurrence of genital lesions in individuals with herpes simplex virus (HSV) can indeed be triggered by stress, illness, and sunburn. Stressful situations can weaken the immune system, making the body less effective at suppressing the virus, which can lead to outbreaks. Illnesses, particularly those that cause fever or systemic illness, can also trigger recurrences as the body's resources are diverted to fight off other infections. Sunburn, which is a form of skin damage, can lead to recurrent lesions due to direct damage to nerve endings and skin cells that might be involved in the reactivation of the virus.

In contrast, while factors such as alcohol consumption, high protein diets, and insufficient hydration can have various effects on the body, they do not have the same direct association with triggering HSV outbreaks. For example, while excess alcohol can affect overall health and immune response, it is not a recognized primary trigger for HSV recurrence compared to the more immediate impact of stress and illness. Understanding these triggers can help individuals manage their condition more effectively by identifying and mitigating potential recurrence factors.