Each year, more than 500,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with genital herpes, according to the Center for Young Women's Health at Children's Hospital Boston. Genital herpes is a viral infection that is transmitted during sexual contact with an infected partner. The first symptoms of herpes can be difficult to detect in some people. Currently, there is no cure for herpes but medications are available to help control herpes outbreak symptoms.
No First Symptoms
Approximately 10 to 25 percent of patients with genital herpes do not know that they have this infection due to the absence of symptoms, report medical professionals at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore. Even without symptoms, patients with herpes can still transmit the infection to an uninfected partner. To limit the accidental transmission of this virus, people who are sexually active should receive regular screening for sexually transmitted diseases.
Flu-like Symptoms
Symptomatic patients with herpes typically develop symptoms within one to two weeks following initial exposure to the virus. First herpes symptoms can include flu-like symptoms, such as fever, muscle or body aches, headache, stomach upset or malaise. These general symptoms of herpes infection arise in approximately 70 percent of females and 40 percent of males, according to UMMC. Flu-like herpes symptoms may persist for a few days or weeks before resolving. Patients who develop any of these flu-like symptoms should receive additional care from a medical professional as these symptoms can also be signs of alternate medical problems.
Skin Tingling or Itching
One of the first signs of herpes infection is a sensation of tingling at the affected skin region. Affected patients may experience tingling or itching along the genitals, thighs or buttocks. These first herpes symptoms can be uncomfortable and may become progressively worse over the span of several days. As the infection advances, patients with herpes typically develop fluid-filled skin lesions at the site of skin tingling. These skin lesions can burst and form a crust that flakes off as the skin ulcer heals. Skin-related herpes symptoms can persist for several weeks before resolving. Patients who develop a persistent skin rash or skin lesions should seek additional medical care immediately.
Pain During Urination
Skin irritation caused by herpes infection can lead to sensations of pain during urination. Patients who experience pain while urinating should discuss these symptoms with a doctor. This first herpes symptom can also be a sign of an alternate medical problem, such as a urinary tract infection.
