Herpes is caused by a viral infection that can spread from one person to another through skin contact or the exchange of body fluids. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that the herpes simplex virus has affected an estimated 45 million Americans. It is estimated that one in eight men and one in four women are infected with genital herpes.
Flu-Like Symptoms
If you contract a herpes infection, you may experience flu-like symptoms. One reason flu-like symptoms occur is that, as your body attempts to fight off the new viral infection, your immune system gets weaker. A weakened immune system can leave you vulnerable to other viral and bacterial attacks. According to an article on herpes by the National Institute of Health, early symptoms typically appear between one and two weeks and may occur as long as three weeks, after becoming infected with the virus. The sore throat and fever caused by a herpes infection can last up to five days and may occur before any outward symptoms appear. You may also experience swollen glands in the neck. Flu-like symptoms may be treated the same way a normal flu would. Your doctor may recommend drinking plenty of fluids, rest and pain medicine on top of treating any outbreak that may occur.
Painful Urination
Painful urination may be another initial symptom of a herpes infection. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, once a herpes infection occurs, the virus will spread to surrounding nerve cells and stay your body for life. At this time, there is no cure for herpes. Since genital herpes involves an infection on or near the genital area, any outbreak can cause burning during urination. If the outbreak of sores on the inside of the genital area is present, passing urine can cause burning or discomfort. When sores open, they are more sensitive to fluids and other outside aggravation. Many outbreaks, especially in women, may not be visible. If urination becomes too painful or excruciating at any time, it is highly advised that you seek immediate medical attention. Sores caused by herpes may make it easier for bacteria to enter into the bladder or urethra, possibly causing urinary tract infections.
Sores
Sores or fever blisters are another initial symptom of herpes. A tingling or slight burning sensation around the infected area may signal an outbreak of sores. These sores are often clusters of red, raised patches or bumps. According to an article on herpes by the Mayo Clinic, the sores usually start out as blisters. After the blister stage, they rupture and form ulcers in the mucous membranes or surface of the skin. Eventually these blisters crust over and the tissue heals. Women will generally have an outbreak of sores on the cervix, and men can experience them on the inside of the penis. When infected cells are worn off from the cervix and inner penis, discharge in men and women can occur. Commonly, a brand new batch of herpes sores will appear five to seven days after the initial batch is experienced. A common initial outbreak will last two to three weeks.
