Herpes Handbook

Symptoms of Herpes

Symptoms of herpes vary, but often most people have no noticeable symptoms.

Early symptoms may include:

burning sensation in the genitals

flu-like symptoms

lower back pain

pain when urinating


Small red bumps may appear in the genital area after initial symptoms, which later develop into painful blisters.

The blisters usually:

crust over

form a scab

heal

GENITAL HERPES

The First Outbreak

Symptoms usually develop within 2-20 days after contact, but could continue up to 2 weeks.

The first infection may be so mild it goes unnoticed. In other cases, the first attack causes visible sores. Subsequent recurrences of the virus may cause an outbreak of blisters.

The virus retreats into the nerves and lies dormant. Even when there are no symptoms of herpes, transmitting the virus is still possible (asymptomatic viral shedding).

Healing of the skin does not normally leave scarring.

Typical Symptoms

When it gets into skin cells the virus reproduces itself and starts to multiply, making the skin red and sensitive.

Blisters or bumps may appear on the genital area, the blisters first opening and then healing with the regeneration of new skin tissue.

During the outbreak the infected area may:

be painful

burn

itch

tingle

Other symptoms include:

fever

headache

infection of the urethra causing a burning sensation when urinating

muscle ache

painful inflamed blisters which develop around the infected area

swollen lymph glands

vaginal or penis discharge

The first episode is the most severe, with most episodes lasting 10-21 days. A warning sign (prodrome) such as tingling is experienced by many people in recurring outbreaks.

Should any of these symptoms occur, consult your doctor or other health care provider immediately.

Genital herpes should be diagnosed and treated professionally.

Source: http://www.herpes-coldsores.com/std/herpes.htm
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