Herpes comes in two different forms, type I and type II. The herpes virus is able to remain in the body in a dormant phase, which means that it can't be cured. As a result, the herpes type I virus can cause infections throughout the patient's life. Herpes type I can cause symptoms in the mouth, genitals, eyes and brain.
Oral Symptoms
As KidsHealth.org explains, one of the most common symptoms of a herpes type I infection is the development of a cold sore, also known as a fever blister. Of the two primary strains of herpes (type I and type II), type I is the more frequent cause of cold sores. Cold sores typically begin on the lips but can also occur on the gums or in the inside of the mouth. Cold sores can also appear on the face and inside of the nose. Before a cold sore appears the area will typically itch until the blister appears. Cold sores appear as blisters in the affected area that swell up and eventually break. Cold sores will eventually crust over and heal.
Eye Symptoms
GetEyeSmart.org explains that herpes type I can also lead to an infection of the eye known as herpes keratitis. This type of herpes infection can cause redness, dry eyes, tearing and an abnormal eye discharge. Patients may also be unusually sensitive to light and have blurred vision. Herpes keratitis often occurs when a herpes infection is reactivated, which can occur after intense sun exposure, physical or emotional stress, a fever, or physical trauma. Menstruation and certain medications can also lead to the development of herpes keratitis.
Genital Herpes
Although most cases of genital herpes are caused by herpes type II, type I herpes can also lead to genital herpes. Genital herpes, according to WomensHealth.gov, can cause itching and redness around the anus or genital area. Patients may also experience pain in the buttocks or legs, a vaginal discharge and symptoms that resemble the flu (such as a fever and a general feeling of malaise).
Encephalitis
Medline notes that the herpes type I virus can also lead to a condition known as viral encephalitis. Viral encephalitis can lead to a severe headache and a high fever. Viral encephalitis also commonly leads to confusion and seizures, which can manifest itself either physically (sudden muscle spasms) or via the olfactory system, in which the patient experiences sensations of unpleasant smells (such as that of rotten eggs).
