The National Library of Medicine explains that herpes is caused by two viruses. The first is herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), which causes an infection of the mouth and lips but can spread to the genitals. Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) is the other cause of herpes outbreaks occurring on the genitals. Either virus is very contagious and can be transferred from mouth to genitals through the exchange of bodily fluids. Men who have contracted either form of the virus will exhibit a variety of symptoms.
Initial Symptoms
The Mayo Clinic points out that the initial symptoms of herpes are generally the same for men and women. The skin will become tender and begin to itch. The Mayo Clinic suggests men may notice the skin turning red and becoming painful and they may have flu-like symptoms the very first time herpes appear. Symptoms associated with this include headache, muscle aches, fever and swollen lymph nodes in the groin.
Ulcers
Several days after the initial symptoms the skin will develop small, red bumps in clusters. These can be painful or irritating. The Mayo Clinic explains that the bumps will rupture, becoming ulcers that can ooze and bleed. After five to seven days the ulcers will then heal and form scabs. During this time, the Mayo Clinic indicates a new cluster of herpes can appear.
Location of Herpes
Men will experience genital herpes on the penis, scrotum, buttocks, anus and/or the urethra, as indicated by the Mayo Clinic. The location of the herpes can cause more discomfort making it painful to talk, urinate and/or touch the area. Men may also have discharge of the penis.
Oral herpes can appear on or near the lips and even the tongue, explains the University of Michigan Medical Center (UMM). Symptoms that are unique to oral herpes include increased salivation and foul breath.
Considerations
After initially contracting the virus the first outbreak of herpes is likely to be the worst, explains the Mayo Clinic. It is possible for a man to contract herpes from his partner and not ever show any symptoms, experience long periods of time between outbreaks or have one outbreak in his lifetime. The UMM suggests that 10 to 25 percent of individuals infected with HSV-2 may not have any symptoms.
