Herpes prodrome is the time period occurring just prior to an active herpes outbreak. According to the American Social Health Association, although lesions are absent, herpes can still be transmitted during this prodromal period. However, not all people experience the prodrome symptoms leading up to a herpes outbreak or are unaware of what those signs entail.
Pain and Tingling
The Virology Journal identifies pain and tingling of the skin in a person with known herpes as a prodromal symptom of an impending herpes outbreak. Prior to developing, the nerves affected with herpes simplex virus, or HSV, start to release the latent virus into the skin tissues. Typically, herpes outbreaks will occur within the same general region, including the mouth, nose, anus and genitals.
Itching and Redness
Just before the herpes lesions erupt, prodromal itching and redness may occur at the site. In the prodrome phase no actual lesions will be apparent, however, the site of infection can become clearly defined with a pink or red tint to the skin. Itching or scratching of the region is not advised as this can cause skin abrasions and increase the rate of infection while decreasing the rate of healing.
Swollen Glands
Lymph nodes collect the waste materials in the body. Prior to a herpes outbreak, the lymph nodes go into overdrive collecting shed materials from the tissues surrounding the latent herpes virus. Typical to a herpes prodrome is the swelling and tenderness of the lymph nodes directly surrounding the outbreak site, commonly around the groin area for genital herpes. This overworking of the lymph tissues may also lead to irritability, headaches and general malaise.
