What is a common trigger for recurrences of genital herpes outbreaks?

Emotional stress is a well-established trigger for recurrences of genital herpes outbreaks. The herpes simplex virus, which causes genital herpes, lies dormant in the body's nerve cells and can reactivate due to various factors. Stress is known to impair the immune system, making it less effective at keeping the virus suppressed. When a person experiences high levels of emotional stress, it can prompt the virus to reactivate, leading to an outbreak of symptoms such as sores or blisters.

The other options are not commonly recognized as primary triggers for genital herpes recurrences. While prolonged exposure to sunlight may affect certain skin conditions, its direct relationship with genital herpes is not as significant as emotional stress. A high-fat diet does not have a well-documented connection to herpes outbreaks, and while increased physical activity can sometimes lead to general fatigue, it isn’t a recognized specific trigger for reactivating the herpes virus. Thus, emotional stress stands out as the prominent trigger for many individuals managing this condition.