herpes symptoms : Herpes Links

This list of STD Links includes resources and information about herpes, genital warts and other sexually transmitted diseases. Learning all that you can will help you understand and come to terms with your medical diagnosis. Don't be afraid to look stuff up and reach out to others for questions or advice. Don't be afraid to talk to your healthcare provider. Remember that you are not the only one that has ever gone through what you may be going through right now. Having an STD doesn't define who you are as a person.

It's good to do research and to learn what you can about sexually transmitted diseases like Herpes but please do not try and self diagnose your situation. Herpes can not always be seen or felt and the herpes pictures that you might find out there on the internet are not realistic and usually considered the worst case scenarios. Many people that have herpes don't even know that they have it because they don't get signs or symptoms. Try to remember this while you are searching for answers and don't forget to make an appointment to see a good herpes aware doctor. Nobody can diagnose you over the internet!

© 2003 - 2006 Yoshi2me.com Revised: 06/23/06

herpes symptoms : Symptoms of HSV1 & HSV2

Genital herpes is a contagious viral infection that affects an estimated 45 million Americans. To place this in a broader more mentally visible picture, genital herpes is affecting as many as one in every four people who are sexually active. There are an estimated 1 million new cases each year that are believed to occur. Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV).




There are two types of HSV and both can cause the herpes symptoms. HSV type 1 most commonly causes sores on the lips and is often referred to as fever blisters or cold sores, but it can cause symptoms of genital herpes infections as well. HSV type 2 is most often related to infections and symptoms of genital herpes, but it also can infect the mouth. The virus remains in certain nerve cells of the body for life, causing periodic symptoms of genital herpes in some people. Many people who are infected with HSV never develop any symptoms of genital herpes at all.

The infection is usually acquired by sexual contact with someone who has symptoms of genital herpes. People with oral herpes can transmit the infection to the genital area of a partner during oral-genital sex and result in symptoms of genital herpes. A person who is infected with HSV but has no noticeable symptoms of genital herpes can also transmit herpes infections. Such asymptomatic shedding of the virus may be fairly common, occurring from 5 percent to 20 percent of the time in infected individuals.


Symptoms of genital herpes in a primary episode vary widely from person to person. They usually occur within two to 10 days of exposure. Typically the symptoms associated with genital herpes that are recognizable involve small red bumps that may develop into blisters and open lesions. These “bumps” appear at the site of infection, which may be in or around the vaginal area, the cervix, the penis, urinary tract of both men and women, and around the anal opening, buttocks or thighs. Sores also may appear on other parts of the body where broken skin has come into contact with HSV. Over a period of days, the sores become encrusted and then heal without scarring. Symptoms associated with genital herpes in a primary outbreak tend to take longer to heal because the body has yet to build up an immune system resistance to the viral outbreaks.

Other herpes symptoms in a primary episode may include fever, headache, muscle aches, and swollen glands in the groin area, painful urination or vaginal discharge.

Some of the most common symptoms of genital herpes that are often misdiagnosed are misdiagnosed as yeast infection, insect bites, jock itch, urinary tract infections, abrasions or razor burn, ingrown hair follicles, and even hemorrhoids. If you suffer from recurring infections or symptoms of any of the listed conditions, it is advised to see a medical professional for observance and testing when symptoms occur. It is quite possible the recurrence of such conditions could actually be symptoms of genital herpes.



It is never safe to assume that condoms will protect you from a herpes infection and prevent you from ever knowing what symptoms of genital herpes really are. Condoms do not cover herpes infected areas in many of those infected with the herpes virus. The best way to protect yourself from every knowing symptoms of genital herpes is to practice abstinence. Getting to know your partner, engaging in proper STD testing prior to intimacies and being as completely honest and forthright as possible is the most assured way to combat a future infection.

With so many people who are infected with the herpes virus never showing any symptoms of genital herpes, the increase for proper testing is recognized and strongly encouraged.

If you are a person that suffers from symptoms of genital herpes, there are a number of treatment options available. Antivirals are available by prescription from your health care provider and a number of over-the-counter treatments are available and are affective in treating symptoms of genital herpes. Two such products are H-Balm and Choraphor. When used as directed, either product can help minimize the duration of symptoms of genital herpes and promote healing.

Although genital herpes is affecting such a large number of the population and it does carry with it the social stigma associated with promiscuity, there is nothing to be ashamed of. Many people from all age groups, social classes, races and both genders are being affected by genital herpes. Taking a proactive approach in caring for your own health will help minimize the number of outbreaks you will actually have. This in turn can contribute to minimizing the risk you will pose to your potential partners.

If you do suffer from symptoms of genital herpes, you must always disclose your infection to your intimate partners regardless of what precautions you believe you are taking to protect them. It has to be their choice to continue the intimate acts it is the law.

Copyright © 2002-2006 Herpesonline.org

herpes symptoms : Oral Sex Raises Women's Genital Herpes Risk

Vaginal intercourse and receiving oral sex can raise a woman's risk of infection from herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1).

That's the type of herpes that's most commonly known to cause infections of the mouth and lips, often called fever blisters or cold sores.

HSV-1 and another herpes virus -- herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) -- make up genital herpes. An estimated 45 million people aged 12 or older in the U.S. have had genital herpes, says the CDC. That's one in five teens or adults. The number of people in the U.S. with genital herpes increased 30% from the late 1970s to the early 1990s, says the CDC.

HSV-1 has been traditionally thought to spread "above the waist," while HSV-2 has a reputation for transmission through sexual behavior "below the belt," say University of Pittsburgh researchers.

But now, they've shown that women can also catch HSV-1 through vaginal or oral sex.

More Risk With Oral Sex, Vaginal Intercourse

Their new study showed that women who received oral sex were nearly nine times as likely to become infected with HSV-1 as those who were sexually abstinent. That was true, even if the sexually active women only had oral sex without vaginal intercourse.

Women who had vaginal intercourse were more than six times more likely as sexually abstinent women to get HSV-1, says the study.

Those results were found by monitoring herpes infection in 1,200 young women in the Pittsburgh area. After an initial clinical visit, the women returned for three follow-up appointments, scheduled four months apart. They disclosed their sexual practices and gave blood samples, which were screened for herpes viruses.

All of the women were 18 to 30 years old. At the study's start, 38% had HSV-1. That's a low rate, says the study, which appears in the February edition of the journal Sexually Transmitted Diseases.

The study didn't cover whether the women's partners had herpes, and it couldn't rule out kissing as the means of transmission.

Herpes Risk Rising for Young Adults

The rate of childhood HSV-1 infection has been falling in the U.S. and other developed countries. That's left a "burgeoning population of young adults who are susceptible to either oral or genital HSV-1 infection," says the study.

"Because oral HSV-1 infections are less frequent in childhood and adolescence, future prevention strategies will be needed to consider increased susceptibility for HSV-1 among young adults, and the important contribution of HSV-1 to the growing genital herpes epidemic," says researcher Thomas Cherpes, MD, in a news release. Cherpes works in the infectious diseases division of the University of Pittsburgh's medical school.

HSV-2 infection doesn't help protect against HSV-1 write the researchers, calling for a herpes vaccine that targets both types of the virus.

By Miranda Hitti

herpes symptoms : Oral Sex Raises Women's Genital Herpes Risk

Vaginal intercourse and receiving oral sex can raise a woman's risk of infection from herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1).

That's the type of herpes that's most commonly known to cause infections of the mouth and lips, often called fever blisters or cold sores.

HSV-1 and another herpes virus -- herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) -- make up genital herpes. An estimated 45 million people aged 12 or older in the U.S. have had genital herpes, says the CDC. That's one in five teens or adults. The number of people in the U.S. with genital herpes increased 30% from the late 1970s to the early 1990s, says the CDC.

HSV-1 has been traditionally thought to spread "above the waist," while HSV-2 has a reputation for transmission through sexual behavior "below the belt," say University of Pittsburgh researchers.

But now, they've shown that women can also catch HSV-1 through vaginal or oral sex.

More Risk With Oral Sex, Vaginal Intercourse

Their new study showed that women who received oral sex were nearly nine times as likely to become infected with HSV-1 as those who were sexually abstinent. That was true, even if the sexually active women only had oral sex without vaginal intercourse.

Women who had vaginal intercourse were more than six times more likely as sexually abstinent women to get HSV-1, says the study.

Those results were found by monitoring herpes infection in 1,200 young women in the Pittsburgh area. After an initial clinical visit, the women returned for three follow-up appointments, scheduled four months apart. They disclosed their sexual practices and gave blood samples, which were screened for herpes viruses.

All of the women were 18 to 30 years old. At the study's start, 38% had HSV-1. That's a low rate, says the study, which appears in the February edition of the journal Sexually Transmitted Diseases.

The study didn't cover whether the women's partners had herpes, and it couldn't rule out kissing as the means of transmission.

Herpes Risk Rising for Young Adults

The rate of childhood HSV-1 infection has been falling in the U.S. and other developed countries. That's left a "burgeoning population of young adults who are susceptible to either oral or genital HSV-1 infection," says the study.

"Because oral HSV-1 infections are less frequent in childhood and adolescence, future prevention strategies will be needed to consider increased susceptibility for HSV-1 among young adults, and the important contribution of HSV-1 to the growing genital herpes epidemic," says researcher Thomas Cherpes, MD, in a news release. Cherpes works in the infectious diseases division of the University of Pittsburgh's medical school.

HSV-2 infection doesn't help protect against HSV-1 write the researchers, calling for a herpes vaccine that targets both types of the virus.

By Miranda Hitti

herpes symptoms : How is genital herpes diagnosed and treated?

During the initial outbreak, cultures of the blisters are positive for the herpes virus in only about 80% of patients. This means that in 20% of women with an actual herpes outbreak, a negative culture result might incorrectly lead them to believe that they do not have the herpes virus. In other words, a negative test result from a blister is not as helpful as a positive test result, because the test may come false negative if the blister isn't sampled in the early fluid-filled stage. However, if a sample of a fluid-filled blister (in the early stage before it dries up and crusts) tests positive for herpes, the test result is very reliable. After the initial outbreak, subsequent outbreaks tend to be sporadic. They can occur weekly, or even years apart. Some women only have the initial outbreak and never have a recurrence. In women who do have recurrences, culturing the blister fluid detects the herpes virus in only 50% of the cultures. There are herpes blood tests that are used only for research purposes. The reason the blood tests are limited to research is that they only indicate that someone is a "carrier" of the virus and do not mean he or she actually will get an attack of genital herpes that can be spread from person to person. This is the reason why it's best to go right to the blister and sample it, since what really needs to be known is whether a blister is filled with infectious herpes virus or not.

Genital herpes has received a great deal of publicity in recent years. It is believed that 60% of sexually active adults carry the herpes virus. Part of the reason for the continued high infection rate is that most women infected with the herpes virus do not know that they are infected, because they have few or no symptoms. The typical symptoms of itching, blisters, and painful ulcers are not always present. In many women, there are "atypical" outbreaks where the only symptom may be mild itching or minimal discomfort. Often, the longer the woman has had the virus, the fewer the symptoms they have with their outbreaks. Additionally, the virus can shed from the cervix into the vagina in women who are not experiencing any symptoms.

Although there is no known cure for herpes, there are treatments for the outbreaks. There are oral medications, such as acyclovir (Zovirax), famciclovir (Famvir), or valacyclovir (Valtrex) and ointments that can be used to help lessen the pain associated with the outbreak and even shorten the length of the eruption. Recently medication has also been approved to decrease (but not totally prevent) the risk of transmission to uninfected sexual partners of people with genital herpes. Herpes can be spread from one part of the body to another during an outbreak. Therefore, it is important not to touch the eyes or mouth after touching the blisters or ulcers. Thorough hand washing is a must during outbreaks. Clothing that comes in contact with ulcers should not be shared with others. Couples that want to minimize the risk of transmission should always use condoms if a partner is infected with the herpes virus. Unfortunately, even when an infected partner isn't currently having an outbreak, herpes can be spread. Couples may also want to consider avoiding all sexual contact, including kissing, during an outbreak of herpes. Since an active genital herpes outbreak (blisters) during labor and delivery can be harmful to the infant, pregnant women who suspect that they have genital herpes should tell their doctor. Women who have herpes and are pregnant can have a vaginal delivery as long as they are not experiencing symptoms or actually having an outbreak while in labor.

©1996-2006 MedicineNet, Inc. All rights reserved.

herpes symptoms : Health Complications With Genital Herpes

Genital herpes in some people may never show symptoms, but for others, the symptoms become so severe that complications develop, especially if sores or herpes blisters appear in other areas of the body.

Cold sores on the lips, called "herpes labialis", are normally mild and may be considered a mere nuisance. But if these become prolonged, frequent, or severe, the use of antiviral treatments is recommended.

Blisters on the hands and fingers can also occur and it is called "herpetic whitlow". Since the hands can practically reach all parts of the body, it has the greatest capacity to spread the virus. To prevent such a disaster, the hands must be covered with plastic or rubber gloves.

There can be blisters on the anus, too. The infection is called "herpes proctitis". This infection is usually more painful and more distressing than genital herpes.

The eyes, especially that of the newborn, is also susceptible to the herpes virus. The infection is called "herpes keratitis" or "ocular herpes". When this happens, or even when you only feel a painful irritation in your eyes, consult the doctor immediately. If ignored, herpes keratitis could lead to blindness.

Women who experience genital herpes outbreaks may also have vaginal yeast infections, called "vulvovaginal dandidiasis". There will be swelling, itching, and pain when the woman urinates or engages in a sexual activity. This is due to the presence of too many yeast organisms in the vagina. If you have vaginal yeast infections, it doesn't mean that you also have genital herpes. The excess growth of yeast occurs for many reasons, such as when the woman is taking antibiotics or birth control pills, or when she is pregnant, or when she is wearing tight body-hugging clothes. Fortunately, with good hygiene, this type of infection disappears on its own.

Sometimes, the genital herpes virus can infect the cerebrospinal fluid and the tissues that surround the brain. This will result to meningitis and encephalitis. Meningitis is life-threatening especially when these occur: changes in vision, photophobia, drowsiness, bulging on the baby's head, and seizures. Encephalitis happens when the brain becomes swollen. It is also a life-threatening complication and have similar symptoms to that of meningitis. It can also lead to coma.

Other internal organs, such as the joints, lungs, and liver, may suffer complications when a person has genital herpes. These complications occur in people with ineffective immune systems, such as those with HIV, diabetes or cancer and those who are undergoing chemotherapy.

To avoid complications, you must again recall that HSV survives in mucus and may affect any part of the body where mucus is found.

by Peter Garant

herpes symptoms : How Can You Tell Someone Has Genital Herpes?

How can you tell someone has genital herpes? Do you take a good look at the person? Do you ask and look straight in their eyes? Do you inquire about their sex lives? Well, my answer is no, maybe and maybe.

It may be a good idea to ask someone if they're aware of having genital herpes. The more sexual partners a person has had in their lives, the more likely they're to be infected by herpes. But these methods are quite insufficient. Did you know that the majority of people who have genital or oral herpes are not aware of it? So how do you explain that? Simple, many oral or genital herpes infected people just don't have any herpes symptoms, others have some symptoms which are mild enough to confuse them with a rash or a mosquito bite or anything that may cause, redness, swelling, itching, burning and blisters, and some may not even know what herpes symptoms are.

The fact that somebody doesn't have or recognize herpes symptoms doesn't mean they don't have it. About 25% of the US population is infected with genital herpes, with women being more affected than men. Studies have shown that the vast majority (80%-90%) of people who have genital herpes have not been diagnosed with the condition.

According to a recent paper published by Carnegie Mellon University in January 2006, most sexually active teenage girls know almost nothing about sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), except AIDS, until it is too late. Another 2006 study led by Dr. Herbert Kaufman, Boyd Professor of Ophthalmology at Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, found herpes virus-1 in 98 percent of healthy participants. None of them displayed any symptoms; however they shed the herpes virus in their saliva and tears at least once during the course of the 30-day study. Even though this study didn't target genital herpes directly, it demonstrates that most people can be totally unaware of carrying the virus and being infected by herpes.

Shed or shedding means that the virus is present on the skin and ready to be transmitted. Herpes is transmitted through skin contact 98% of the time. Studies have shown that shedding may occur in almost 40% of HSV-2 (usually associated with genital herpes) infected people. Asymptomatic viral shedding may last 1 to 5 days, meaning that a person can be contagious without presenting any symptoms at the time. The average duration of each period of viral shedding has been assessed through laboratory studies but is just an estimate.

So how can you tell for a fact if someone has genital herpes? The only way to know is to look at blood, PCR or swab test results. Swab and PCR tests are very accurate when they detect herpes. However, if a test was performed late or delivered to the lab late, it may return a false negative result. Western blot test, a blood test, is the most accurate test available but may return a false negative if the person tested was first infected within the past 3 months. So it is not easy to know if a person has genital herpes or not.

One last consideration, herpes Simplex 1 or HSV-1 usually causes oral herpes and cold sores and herpes simplex-2, genital herpes. But herpes virus-1 genital herpes is becoming more and more prevalent nowadays. It is mostly transmitted during oral sex from a person who's having an oral herpes infection with or without symptoms. So if getting genital herpes is a concern to you, you should consider oral herpes as well as genital herpes when asking a partner.

As you can see, it is very difficult to assess if a partner has genital herpes. There are no proven products to prevent genital herpes transmission at the moment. Some are currently undergoing testing for FDA approval and will hopefully be marketed soon. In the meanwhile, the best option is using a condom.

by Nathalie Foy

herpes symptoms : What is Oral And Genital Herpes?

Oral Herpes and Genital Herpes Outbreaks

There are two types of herpes infections, oral herpes and genital herpes; both are contagious. The most insidious fact about herpes is that it can be an "invisible virus;" it is possible for a person to have and to spread either type of herpes virus and not even know that he or she has herpes.

The virus that infects a person with oral herpes is named "herpes simplex type 1." The virus that infects a person with genital herpes is named "herpes simplex type 2." Both types of herpes are spread by direct contact with an infected area or by contact with a body fluid from that area.

There is no known cure for either type of herpes; it is permanent, but not always active. A person with oral herpes or genital herpes may have one or several outbreaks in his or her life.

Oral Herpes and It's Symptoms

Oral herpes symptoms include blisters or cold sores on the lips and in the mouth that can develop into painful ulcers. If the gums are infected they will become red and puffy. Oral herpes may also cause a fever, aching muscles and swollen glands in the neck. An initial outbreak may last from two to three weeks.

Oral herpes is very common among children. Children share each other's straws and eating utensils and generally have a lot of physical contact with one another playing sports and just generally roughhousing. Children are also subject to being kissed by visiting close friends and relatives who are completely unaware that they have oral herpes.

Genital Herpes and its Symptoms

Genital herpes symptoms include blisters and pain in the genital areas. Blisters may appear on the penis, scrotum, vagina, in the cervix or on the thighs and buttocks. Initial symptoms include an itch or pain in an infected area, fever, headache, swollen glands in the groin, a painful or burning sensation during urination and possibly a thick, clear fluid discharge from the penis or vagina. The blisters may become painful sores. An initial episode of genital herpes may last from one to three weeks.

Preventing Herpes

It is possible to prevent a herpes infection by avoiding direct contact with blisters, sores or ulcers that appear on someone's mouth or genitals. Keeping in mind that herpes can be an "invisible virus," it is a good idea to avoid physical or intimate contact with anyone you suspect may carry either virus.

Teach your children that putting something in their mouth that has been in someone else's mouth is never a good idea. They should also be warned that when someone has a cut or sore they should be very careful to avoid touching it because of the "germs" that they might catch.

Adults and teenagers who are sexually active should never have unprotected sex with someone who they even suspect may be infected by genital herpes. The use of a condom will provide some measure of protection but not complete protection. The only complete protection is abstinence.

A pregnant women who has ever had an outbreak of genital herpes should inform her obstetrician well before her due date, so the obstetrician can, if necessary, discuss and plan for a non-vaginal delivery.

Treating Herpes

It is worth mentioning again that all a doctor or a medication can do is treat symptoms of an outbreak of herpes with an antiviral medicine -- there is no cure.

If your child has cold sores that do not disappear within ten days, or has a history of frequent cold sores, take him or her to a doctor.

by Daisy Bone

herpes symptoms : How does herpes affect pregnancy?

Herpes infection of the newborn (neonatal herpes) is extremely serious; many babies die and those who survive may have severe, lifelong disabilities. Neonatal herpes usually results from exposure of the baby to the virus during delivery. A few cases may result from being kissed by someone with oral herpes.

Fortunately, neonatal herpes is rare. The highest risk occurs when the mother first catches genital herpes during the last 3 months of pregnancy. Therefore, the main way to prevent neonatal herpes is for pregnant women without genital herpes to avoid exposure to HSV near the end of pregnancy. A pregnant woman without herpes must not have intercourse with anyone with genital herpes. Similarly, she should not permit oral sex by a partner with oral herpes.

Women with longstanding recurrent genital herpes are at low risk for transmitting the virus to their babies. To be safe however, a cesarean section often is done if a woman with recurrent herpes has an outbreak when she goes into labor. (A cesarean section delivers the baby by surgery, so the infant does not pass through the vagina.)

Any pregnant woman with genital herpes, or whose partner has either genital or oral herpes, should inform the doctor or other clinician providing care for the pregnancy. In some cases, a type-specific herpes blood test of the woman and her partner can help determine the risk and reduce the chance of neonatal herpes.

If you're pregnant and you have herpes:

Tell your doctor or health care provider about your infection.
Notify your provider if you think you have herpes symptoms when you go into labor.
Remind your provider to check for herpes lesions when you go into labor, even if you haven't noticed symptoms.
If you have active herpes during delivery, you may have a cesarean section.
If you do not have active symptoms during delivery, you will probably be able to give birth vaginally.
Ask your provider about whether you should take an antiviral medicine during the last month of pregnancy to prevent an outbreak.
If you're are pregnant and don't have genital herpes but your partner does:

Avoid contracting herpes; specifically, avoid sex with your infected partner during the last 3 months of pregnancy.
If your partner has oral herpes, avoid receiving oral sex during the last 3 months of pregnancy.
Don't risk giving herpes to your baby. A first episode during late pregnancy and delivery may make your baby very sick.

by John Currie

herpes symptoms :How the Herpes Simplex Virus Works

The herpes virus is one of the most difficult viruses to control. Scientists study how the virus works in order to understand how to combat it. It is also important for the general public to understand how this virus works because 85% of the world has been infected with one of the herpes viruses.

The Herpes Simplex Virus
The word "herpes" is taken from the Greek word "herpein" which means "to creep." The herpes simplex viruses are double-stranded DNA viruses that only infect humans. There are two types of herpes simplex viruses:

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1)
Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2)
Herpes Simplex Virus Infections
A person can be infected with one or both herpes viruses. It has generally been believed that HSV-1 infections occurred in the mouth and HSV-2 infections occur in the genital area. Now it has been shown that either type of virus can infect either site.

How the Herpes Simplex Virus Works


The virus comes in contact with broken skin or the lining of the mouth, vagina, or anus.
The virus goes to the nuclei of the cells and tries to reproduce itself, or replicate.
Even though the cells are infected, most people do not get symptoms.
Sometimes the virus's replication process destroys the cells it has invaded causing blisters or ulcers to form on the skin.
The blisters or ulcers crust over and heal without scarring.
The virus is transported back through the nerve to important nerve branching points called ganglia deep in the body.
The virus stays in the ganglia in an inactive, or latent, form. During this time the virus does not replicate. It stays in this latent form for varying amounts of time.
Certain triggers may cause the virus to travel back down the nerve to the skin and cause symptoms again. This is known as recurrence.
Causes of Herpes Simplex Virus Recurrences
Even with a normal immune system, recurrences can happen. Sometimes the recurrence occurs spontaneously. However, the following are known triggers that can stimulate a recurrence:

Physical stress
Poor emotional coping style
Persistent stressors for greater than 1 week
Anxiety
Fever
Exposure to ultraviolet light
Nerve damage
Tissue damage
A suppressed immune system
Heat
Cold
Menstruation
Other infections
Fatigue

From Heather Brannon, MD,

herpes symptoms : Herpes Symptoms

There are two strains of the herpes virus: Herpes Simplex Type 1 and Herpes Simplex Type 2. Herpes Simplex 1 is responsible for oral herpes, more commonly known as cold sores, which generally show up on or around the mouth. Herpes Simplex 2 is responsible for genital herpes and is considered to be a sexually transmitted disease.
When Will the Symptoms of Herpes Appear?
Once you have been exposed to the virus through direct skin-to-skin contact, it can take anywhere from two to 20 days before your first episode of symptoms of genital herpes will occur. While the first outbreak of herpes is usually the worst one you will experience, as much as 60% of those infected with the virus will fail to notice any symptoms because the outbreak is so mild. Even if you do not have any symptoms, though, you can still pass on the virus to your sexual partners.

On average, the first herpes outbreak in men lasts about two weeks while in women the average is three weeks. Additionally, because women frequently experience their herpes sores in the vagina, many may mistake the few herpes symptoms they have for some other type of infection. You may confuse herpes with an outbreak of boils. Boils are larger and more painful, but a variety of boil treatments are available. It is not uncommon for a woman infected with the herpes virus to be misdiagnosed with a yeast infection, pelvic inflammatory disease or an inflamed cervix (cervicitis). While women frequently develop vaginal herpes, it is also possible to develop lesions on the vulva, cervix, urethra, anus, thighs and buttocks. If you have unusual vaginal discharge or persistent vaginal discomfort, it is a good idea to be tested for herpes.

Genital Herpes Symptoms
The most common sign of herpes is red, sensitive skin that develops sores or blisters (often referred to as herpes bumps). These lesions usually show up in and around the genital area, although female symptoms of herpes may cause these blisters to develop inside the vagina. Other signs and symptoms of genital herpes include:

Swollen lymph glands in the groin
Headaches
Muscle aches
Fever
Lower back pain
In women, herpes symptoms can also include vaginal discharge and pain or a burning sensation when urinating. About 25% of women will develop meningitis as a complication of their first herpes outbreak while another 10% to 15% will have troubles urinating because of their herpes.
Recurrent Herpes Outbreaks
Of those people who experienced an outbreak of herpes sores when they were first infected, 80% will go on to have recurrent outbreaks. Although these outbreaks tend to be less severe and shorter in duration than the first outbreak, they can still be just as uncomfortable. Additionally, a person is more likely to pass on the virus when they experience an outbreak.

Prior to the recurrent breakout, though, many individuals tend to experience "warning symptoms" that they are about to have another herpes episode. Often, an individual will have some pain or discomfort in the area that is infected before their herpes sores develop. During this time, you are considered to be very contagious despite the absence of herpes blisters.

Herpes Treatment
Although there is no herpes cure, there are various herpes medications available that can ease the discomfort of your symptoms and shorten the length of the herpes outbreak.

Hearthstone Communications Ltd. © 2005

herpes symptoms : Everything is going to be OK.

If you’ve been searching for an anti-herpes product that actually delivers on its promises, your search is over.
Although nothing can completely destroy your genital herpes (herpes simplex virus), Genisil may help you manage your viral outbreaks better than any other anti-herpes product. Customers report that within a day (sometimes within a few hours) of using Genisil, their itching outbreaks began to disappear and are usually gone in 2 days. Just as important, customers report that return of their herpes symptoms is substantially reduced, with some customers avoiding outbreaks for a year or more. Compared to other anti-herpes products, Genisil may be the best you can buy.

Genisil® is a uniquely formulated all-natural ointment. It contains a patented compound of the most potent natural anti-virals on earth.

SILVER (x4) + OXYGEN (x4) + ORGANIC OILS = GENISIL

Within seconds of contact, silver and oxygen begin to attack the herpes virus.

You can use Genisil to fight HSV (herpes simplex virus I and II) during any of the active stages of genital herpes:

Warning (tingling, itching, burning sensation)
Reddening
Swelling
Blistering
Open sores

Copyright © 2005. All rights reserved.

herpes symptoms ; Genital Herpes Symptoms in Women

Genital herpes is a lifelong disease that causes painful outbreaks of blisters in the genital area. Even though the herpes simplex virus can infect men and women equally, the pattern of infection is different. Women should understand the spectrum of symptoms caused by the herpes simplex virus, and should speak to their health care provider if they have any concerns.

Genital Herpes Transmission
The herpes simplex virus is transmitted during close personal contact through the exchange of saliva, semen, cervical fluid, or vesicle fluid from active lesions. The virus generally does not infect the dead, keratinized cells in the epidermis. It must come in contact with mucosal cells or abraded skin to begin replication and infection.

Genital Herpes Transmission in Women
Women are approximately 4 times more likely to acquire a herpes simplex type 2 infection than men.
Susceptible women have a higher likelihood of contracting genital herpes from an infected man than a susceptible man becoming infected by a woman. In other words, if a non-infected man and woman each have intercourse with an infected partner, the woman is more likely than the man to contract a herpes simplex virus infection.
Why Women are at Greater Risk with Genital Herpes
Women may be more susceptible to genital herpes infections because:

The genital area has a greater surface area of cells moist with body fluids (mucosal cells) than men.
Hormone changes during a woman’s menstrual cycle may affect the immune system making it easier for the herpes simplex virus to cause an infection
First Genital Herpes Outbreak in Women
The first genital herpes outbreak is more painful and lasts longer than recurrent genital herpes outbreaks in both men and women. However, women tend to have more severe disease and higher rates of complications during the first genital herpes outbreak. In women, herpes lesions can occur anywhere in the genital area including the vulva, inside the vagina, on the cervix, and urethra. Herpes lesions can also occur in areas other than the genital area such as the buttocks and thighs. These first lesions are infectious for an average of 3 weeks, longer than in men and longer than recurrences in women, because the blisters contain a large number of infectious viral particles.

Other Symptoms with the First Genital Herpes Outbreak
In addition to a rash in the genital area, women can also get swollen lymph nodes in the groin and burning with urination. Complications of the first outbreak in women include difficulty urinating in 10% to 15% of women and meningitis, an inflammation of the fluid surrounding the brain in up to 25% of women.

Confusing Symptoms with Genital Herpes in Women
Even though women may have more severe disease, they may have symptoms that are not attributed to herpes. A woman who has herpes lesions inside the vagina or on the cervix may have pelvic pain and discharge that may be misdiagnosed as a yeast infection, cervicitis (an inflammation of the cervix), or pelvic inflammatory disease. Herpes lesions that involve the urethra may be misdiagnosed as a urinary tract infection or bladder dysfunction. With recurrent infections, women may experience only irritation in the genital area without a rash. It is important that women with vaginal discharge or recurrent vaginal symptoms be tested for herpes.


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herpes symptoms : CONDITIONS CONFUSED WITH HERPES

CONDITIONS CONFUSED WITH HERPES
Listed below are some conditions that are sometimes mistaken for herpes:
Canker sores - (aphthous ulcers), usually occur inside the mouth and are gray with a distinct edge, and usually heal within 10 to 14 days without treatment.

Bacterial or yeast infections are sometimes confused with genital herpes, but do not usually produce blistering.

Impetigo is a highly infectious bacterial disease, more common among children often producing crusty blisters.

Syphilis, a bacterial infection, causes chancres sometimes mistaken for blisters caused by genital herpes. Unlike genital herpes, Syphilis does not usually produce a cluster of blisters, and it usually responds well to antibiotics.

Molluscum contagiosum (molluscum) - like herpes, molluscum is a viral infection of the skin. Unlike herpes, molluscum produces lesions that are raised, with a central dimple.

For a better idea of what herpes is and how to recognize the virus you may like to research the symptoms of the herpes virus, and view and compare pictures of real-life herpes infections.

If you think that you may have an STD or STI you can visit the Sexually Transmitted Disease Resource Center for information, pictures and support relating to all the most common STDs.

If you suspect that you may have genital herpes, an infection caused by the herpes virus or another STD please contact your local health care provider for a professional diagnosis.

Mistaken Symptoms

Herpes outbreaks can be mistaken for:

insect bites
jock itch
abrasions
razor burn
yeast infections
hemorrhoids
ingrown hair follicles
Should any of these symptoms occur, consult your doctor or other healthcare provider immediately. Genital herpes should be diagnosed and treated professionally.


Copyright© 2005 - The Complete Herpes Information Center
All Rights Reserved

herpes symptoms : Herpes Symptoms

The symptoms of genital herpes vary greatly from person to person, with many people having no noticeable symptoms (asymptomatic).

Genital Herpes:

The first outbreak and other symptoms
Recurrences
What brings on or "triggers" an outbreak or recurrence?
Prodrome (warning symptoms)
Cycle of a typical outbreak or recurrence
Routine Check-ups
Mistaken symptoms
The first outbreak...

Symptoms:

usually develop within 2 to 20 days after contact
could continue up to 2 weeks
may be so mild it goes unnoticed
may take longer or be less severe in some people, especially in those with partial immunity to the virus from having facial herpes, e.g. cold sores.
in the first attack sometimes causes visible sores
last between 10 - 21 days
The first episode is the most severe as most people have not been exposed to the virus before and antibodies will not have been produced to trigger the immune response.

When the herpes virus gets into skin cells it 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, then healing with the regeneration of new skin tissue.

The infected area:

is usually painful and may itch, burn or tingle, during the outbreak.
Other symptoms include:

swollen lymph glands
painful inflamed blisters develop around infected area
headache
muscle ache
fever
vaginal or penis discharge
infection of the urethra causing a burning sensation during urination
a burning sensation in the genitals
lower back pain
small red bumps may appear in the genital area following earlier symptoms, later developing into painful blisters, which crust over, form a scab, and heal.
No Symptoms:

Up to 60% of people who have genital HSV show no signs of the disease and are unaware that they are infected, but are capable of transmitting the virus to others (asymptomatic viral shedding).

Recurrences

Subsequent recurrences of the virus may cause an outbreak of blisters.

Recurrences:

are usually shorter and less severe than the initial episode
may decrease in both severity and frequency over time
are usually preceded by warning symptoms (also known as prodromal symptoms)
After the lesions have healed, and the symptoms of recurrence have ended, pain and discomfort in the genital area is still sometimes felt (post-herpetic neuralgia).

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be used to treat this condition. Some people find these drugs effective for the discomfort of the prodrome, and for the duration of the outbreak.

How common are recurrences?

80% of persons having a first episode caused by HSV-2 will have at least one recurrence
50% of persons with HSV-1 will experience a recurrence
The most common scenario is occasional recurrences (about 4 attacks per year)
Usually, the first year has the most viral activity
A recurrence takes place when the virus replicates in the nerve ganglia and particles of virus travel along the nerve to the site of primary infection in the skin or mucous membranes (inner, moist lining of the mouth, vagina etc).

There are very subtle forms of recurring herpes found on the penis, vulva, anus, thigh and buttocks or anywhere in or around the genital area that heal very quickly (within a matter of days).

Signs of Recurrent Outbreaks:

Breaks or irregularities in the skin, such as a cut, red bump or rash
Small sores or blisters that form a crust may occur anywhere in the region between the legs--thigh, buttocks, anus, or pubis
Healing occurs in half the time as the first outbreak

What brings on or "triggers" an outbreak or recurrence?

Although it is not known exactly why the virus reactivates at various times, both physical and/or psychological factors can bring on an outbreak.

Physical Factors:

Physical factors differ from person to person, but may be caused from:

being run-down
suffering from other genital infections (affecting the local skin area)
menstruation
drinking a lot of alcohol
exposure of the area to strong sunlight
conditions that compromise a person's immune system (where the body's immune system is not functioning normally)
prolonged periods of stress
ultraviolet light
friction or damage to the skin, caused by, for example, sexual intercourse, may also lead to a recurrence
surgical trauma
anything that lowers your immune system or causes local injury can trigger recurrences.
Psychological Factors:

periods of prolonged stress can cause more frequent recurrences
it is also common to experience stress and anxiety as a result of having recurrences.
Prodrome

A warning sign (prodrome) is experienced by many people in recurring outbreaks. Warning symptoms which indicate the virus is becoming active, and is on its way to the skin's surface may include:

itching, tingling, numbness, burning, general fatigue, flu-like symptoms, fever
swelling of the lymph nodes in the area of outbreak, headache, painful urination
pain in the buttocks, back of legs, lower back & Cycle of a typical outbreak or recurrence

The symptoms of an active herpes outbreak or recurrence may occur in the following phases.

Symptomatic Course of the Disease:

Inflammation
Swelling, tenderness, and/or redness that may appear before the actual outbreak, and may include itching, and sensitivity. The inflammation may never progress to blisters.

Blisters
One or several small fluid filled lesions, tiny red bumps, or rash may form and can resemble small fissures, especially near the anus.

Ulcers
When the skin breaks on the blisters, small, round, wet looking, ulcers leaking clear to milky colored fluid can be seen

Crust
The sores begin to dry, scab, and crust over beginning the healing process. The virus may possibly still be present until the ulcer has completely healed, and the scab falls off.

NOTE: the sores do not always crust before healing.

Healing
New skin is formed and may look slightly red, or silver. Viral replication is complete, the virus has left the skin's surface, and the skin is now safe to touch. Healing of the skin does not normally leave scarring. The virus then retreats into the nerves and lies dormant.

Routine Check-ups

A check up for herpes is important because:

lesions can be overlooked,lesions can be invisible to the human eye & Mistaken Symptoms

Herpes outbreaks can be mistaken for:

insect bites, jock itch, abrasions, razor burn, yeast infections, hemorrhoids
ingrown hair follicles
There are many conditions and STDs that are often confused with herpes. Click here for information.

Should any of these symptoms occur, consult your doctor or other healthcare provider immediately. Genital herpes should be diagnosed and treated professionally.

Copyright© 2005 - The Complete Herpes Information Center
All Rights Reserved