Understanding Herpes Symptoms
Understanding Herpes Symptoms
Herpes is a sexually transmitted disease which causes several herpes symptoms that affect the sexual and body image of the individual. Herpes is caused by herpes simplex virus and is categorized into two: herpes simplex virus type 1 and herpes simplex virus type 2. Herpes type 1 is otherwise known as oral herpes and type 2 as genital herpes. Although the manifestations are similar, the herpes symptoms differ in location. The mode of transmission of the virus is through direct contact with body fluids and lesions, although the most common mode of acquiring herpes symptoms is through oral and genital sex.
Signs and symptoms of herpes infection develop within 2-20 days after contact with a person with herpes. Initial herpes symptoms may be mild to severe and stays for as long as 21 days. Once an individual suffered from the viral infection, it may reoccur for some time. This is due to the fact that the virus travels along the sensory nerves and reside in the nerve bodies lifelong. Once immunocompromised, herpes symptoms reoccur. The period when symptoms disappear and the person is apparently well is called remissions. The following are the general signs and symptoms of herpes simplex virus infection:
- Blisters or lesions on the site of infection
- Burning and tingling sensations at the site of the vesicle (perirectal areas, genitals, esophagus, or mouth)
- Pain on the lesion
- Lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes) as a sign of active infection
- Headache and muscle ache
- Back pain as a sign of infection to the sensory nerve roots at the spine
- Fever
Aside from these general symptoms, one can have specific manifestations depending on the type of herpes infection.
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 or Oral Herpes Symptoms
- Itching of the mouth and areas near the lips as a first sign of infection
- Sores on the lips, tongue, cheeks, buccal mucosa, palate, and throat that extends to the esophagus
- Dysphagia or difficulty swallowing as a result of herpetic lesions in the esophagus
- Pain, burning and tingling sensation in the mouth
Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 or Genital Herpes Symptoms
- Itching of the genitals as a first sign of infection
- Small reddish lesions on the genital area which later changes into blisters, crusts, scabs and eventually heals in 20 days
- Abnormal discharges in the vagina and penis
- Burning and tingling sensation in the genitals
- Painful urination as a result of infection of the lower urinary tract
Despite these evident herpes symptoms, up to two thirds of infected individuals do not show signs and symptoms of the disease, however, they are still able to transmit the virus. In this case, barrier methods such as condoms are important to prevent transmission.
Reoccurrence of herpes simplex virus infection is triggered by an immunocompromised status because of a weak immune system to counteract the infection. These include having colds, hormonal imbalances, physical and emotional stress, alcoholism and exposure to ultraviolet rays. Individuals can be warned for outbreaks by the occurrence of prodromes or warning signs. These include sudden itching, burning, tingling and numbness of the previous areas of blisters, fatigue, fever, headache and symptoms resembling flu. Herpes symptoms are highly contagious so people should exercise safer sex practices.
