10 Symptoms of Herpes

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is one of the most prevalent STDs affecting both men and women. Once the virus enters the body, it travels along nerve pathways and can remain dormant for years, potentially leaving an individual unaware of their infection due to mild or nonexistent symptoms.

However, when the virus becomes active, the person may begin to experience symptoms characteristic of herpes. These often include the appearance of a single blister or a cluster of blisters that break through the skin’s surface.

Cold Sores Around the Mouth

Cold sores on the mouth, often caused by the herpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1), are a widespread issue. Individuals prone to these sores may experience them recurrently after their initial development. While they are most commonly found around the lips, the herpes virus can also cause blisters to appear in the mouth and throat.

Cold sores typically begin as small red patches that evolve into a single blister or a cluster of blisters, which eventually burst, leaving behind a raw, weeping area. This area generally heals and forms a scab on its own, but over-the-counter creams can provide relief and aid in skin repair.

Genital Blisters

Genital blisters are often associated with the herpes type-2 virus (HSV 2) as a common cause. The initial sensation is similar to that of mouth sores, but tends to be more intense due to the increased sensitivity of the genital area.

In the 12 to 24 hours preceding the appearance of visible blisters, the affected skin may become itchy, painful, red, raw, and cracked. Eventually, a blister will emerge, burst open to form an ulcer, and then scab over as it heals.

It is important to note that herpes outbreaks can reoccur, although the severity of symptoms, such as clustered blisters, may diminish compared to the initial infection. The virus remains contagious during both active outbreaks and periods without visible symptoms or sores.

Itching or Tingling Near the Genital or Anal Regions

The initial indication of a herpes outbreak often involves itching and irritation in the affected region. Individuals who are infected may experience a tingling or itching sensation around their genitals, anus, or other soft tissue areas such as the mouth or nose.

This is a precursor to the development of blisters in these specific regions. The skin in these areas will likely become red, itchy, and may even exhibit minor cracking. Additionally, the affected skin will feel raw and sore to the touch.

It is recommended to avoid touching these areas, as doing so can potentially spread germs and bacteria, exacerbating the situation.

Swollen Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped glands located throughout the body, playing a crucial role in the immune system. As part of the lymphatic system, they function as a drainage and filtering mechanism, transporting lymph fluid, nutrients, and waste materials between tissues and the bloodstream.

Lymph nodes are primarily found in the neck, groin, and underarm regions and tend to swell and become tender when faced with infection or injury. In the case of genital herpes, the glands surrounding the affected area may experience swelling and soreness, signaling the presence of the virus.

Persistent Headaches

During a herpes outbreak, headaches are a common symptom that can range from a moderate, dull ache to severe, throbbing pain behind the eyes.

Accompanying the headache, individuals may also experience irritability, sensitivity to sound and light, muscle aches, difficulty sleeping or concentrating, blurred vision, nausea, and loss of appetite.

Recognizing these symptoms can help individuals better understand and manage the impact of the herpes virus on their overall well-being.

Flu-like Symptoms

Flu-like symptoms often accompany a herpes infection and can include fever with chills, sore throat, persistent cough, and a runny or stuffy nose. Some individuals may also experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

As the immune system works to combat the infection, the herpes virus can leave most people feeling physically drained and depleted until the body successfully fights off the infection.

Nagging Backaches

The herpes type-2 virus often targets the lumbar and sacral nerve roots, resulting in nerve-related issues and discomfort. Individuals suffering from this viral infection may experience pain in their lower back, buttocks, and thighs, particularly when the infection is concentrated around the genital area.

Unfortunately, this type of herpes tends to be recurrent and can cause severe discomfort and pain.

Overwhelming Fatigue

Individuals infected with the herpes virus may experience symptoms such as general fatigue, weakness, and a decrease in energy levels. This fatigue can also manifest in the muscles, causing pain or a feeling of heaviness.

Additionally, this symptom may contribute to shortness of breath, weight loss, anxiety, and depression, resulting in the need for frequent naps throughout the day.

Urethral Blisters

The urethra, the tube linking the urinary bladder to the genitals, can be affected by painful sores in both men and women who have herpes type-2. When a person with these sores urinates, they may experience a burning sensation or feel as if a razor blade is passing through the affected area.

While genital or mouth sores can be easily identified, a doctor may need to perform additional tests to confirm a herpes infection when the urethra is involved.

Urination and Discharge Issues in Women

Experiencing a stinging sensation when urine comes into contact with an open wound is a common symptom of herpes. Women tend to have more difficulty with urine passing over sores than men due to the shape and position of the urethra.

Additionally, women may notice a change in their discharge when the herpes virus is active. Instead of the typical white, watery, and odorless discharge, it may become thick, yellow-tinged, and have a strong odor.

This is an indication of an infection in the cervix and should be taken seriously.