Herpes is the common name for the disease that results from infection with a herpes simplex virus (HPV). According to "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine," the herpes virus, which includes two types: HPV1 or HPV2, causes several kinds of symptoms, the most recognizable of which are blisters and sores on the skin. Some of these symptoms are different for men compared to women.
Systemic Symptoms
According to a 2005 report in the medical journal "American Family Physician," approximately 80 percent of people with herpes report systemic symptoms, such as low-grade fever, head or muscle aches, poor appetite and malaise, at or shortly before the beginning of a herpes outbreak. Systemic symptoms of the herpes virus are the same for both men and women and may last up to 14 days. They are usually worst during the first outbreak and become progressively less severe with each recurrence.
Skin Lesions
The herpes virus produces two kinds of skin lesions, according to a 2008 article in the "Archives of Internal Medicine." The first lesion is a tiny blister filled with clear or cloudy yellow fluid and marked with a central depression or "umbilication." The second is a slightly larger, shallow erosion that is commonly referred to as a "punched out" lesion because of its well-defined borders. Both types of lesions are extremely painful and, depending on their location, may interfere with activities such as eating, as in the case of oral herpes, or urination in the case of genital herpes. In men, the most common sites for genital herpes lesions are the shaft and head of the penis and the foreskin for uncircumcised men. They may also be found on the scrotum, thighs, buttocks and perianal area---especially in men who engage in anal-receptive intercourse.
Internal Lesions
Most people are aware that the herpes virus causes lesions on the skin, but few are aware that it can also cause problems inside the body. According to "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine," lesions similar to those seen outside the body can develop on the linings of internal organs and body cavities. In men, symptoms such groin or back pain, problems with urination and clear, mucousy penile discharge should trigger evaluation for herpes prostatitis and/or urethritis.
References
- "Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 17th edition;" A.S. Fauci, E. Braunwald, D.L. Kasper, S.L. Hauser, D.L. Longer, J.L. Jameson and J. Loscalzo; 2008
- "American Family Physician;" Genital Herpes: A Review; J.G. Beauman; Oct. 15, 2005
- "Archives of Internal Medicine;" The Treatment of Herpes Simples: An Evidence-Based Review; C. Cernik, K. Gallina, and R.T. Brodell; June 2008
