subject: Initial Herpes Outbreak - What Symptoms Does the First Herpes Outbreak Have? [print this page] Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that is a lot more common than you probably realise. It affects around one in six people, and this number is quite possibly even higher, as around half of the people infected with herpes actually show no symptoms at all of the herpes simplex virus, the virus that causes herpes.
The initial herpes outbreak occurs within two to twenty days of exposure to the virus. Exposure occurs through unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex with an infected partner. The first outbreak is usually the worst and longest lasting of the outbreaks you will experience as time goes on, and can last as long as two or three weeks.
The most common symptoms of the initial herpes outbreak are the appearance of red, sensitive, tingling or irritated skin on and around the genital area. This sensitive area of skin will develop small round sores or blisters. These blisters are often uncomfortable or painful, and also may itch a great deal. They will eventually swell, burst and scab over, and usually heal without leaving any scarring. You will likely experience these sores during all your herpes outbreaks. You may have an itchy vagina or penis or surrouning area at the start of your outbreak, or more problematically, throughout the whole period of outbreak. This can lead to irritation of the sores and a slow down in healing time.
Other symptoms of the initial herpes outbreak may or may not appear during subsequent outbreaks. These symptoms include swollen lymph glands, or a just general swelling of the groin area, and flu-like symptoms such as headache, muscle or joint aches, fatigue, fever and nausea.
After the initial herpes outbreak, flare ups tend to be less severe, and will reduce in severity as time goes on. With strong anti-viral treatment, whether prescription, natural or homeopathic, outbreaks can be controlled, made to be less severe and last a shorter amount of time, and significantly reduced. If you've just experienced an initial herpes outbreak, be sure to see a doctor for a diagnosis and to begin treatment as soon as possible.
Initial Herpes Outbreak - What Symptoms Does the First Herpes Outbreak Have?
