The Mayo Clinic points out that herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease occurring in both men and women. It can appear in the mouth as well as in the genital areas. Symptoms vary slightly between men and women. The University of Michigan Medical Center (UMM) points out that no cure exists for the herpes virus. Some medications may be effective in minimizing the symptoms of herpes when applied at the first sign of herpes.
Primary Outbreak Symptoms
The UMM points out that between 10 and 25 percent of individuals infected with the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) or the herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) experience no symptoms after exposure. Individuals who do experience symptoms are likely to have a more severe outbreak the first time. In addition to the symptoms of herpes, the individual may suffer from flu-like symptoms. The Mayo Clinic describes these as headache, muscle pains, fever and/or swollen glands in the neck or groin area. The UMM indicates that about 40 percent of men and 70 percent of women experience flu-like symptoms with the initial infection. They also suggest the individual may have difficulty urinating or that women may experience abnormal vaginal discharge.
Prodrome Symptoms
Regardless of whether the herpes occur as part of the initial or recurrent outbreak, the prodrome symptoms are usually the same. Prodrome, defined by the American Social Health Association (ASHA), means warning symptoms that occur prior to an outbreak. The ASHA indicates the symptoms to include itching, tingling or pain in the area where the lesions will develop. These symptoms may last a day or two. The ASHA warns that even at this early point in the outbreak an individual can be contagious.
Development of Lesions
The UMM indicates that within one to two weeks following exposure to the virus an individual will notice small red bumps on the skin. The Mayo Clinic explains that herpes can occur on or near the lips, the tongue, the vaginal area, external genital area of women, buttocks, anus or cervix in women. The clinic also indicates that men may develop lesions on or near the lips, the tongue, penis, scrotum, buttocks, anus, thighs or inside the urethra.
Herpes
Once the small, red bumps appear, the individual may experience pain and discomfort. Moving the mouth, urinating or other contact with the sores can be painful or difficult. The UMM suggests oral herpes may be accompanied by an increase in salivation, and foul breath. After several days, the blisters may burst and become ulcers. The UMM explains that they may ooze and bleed until forming scabs to heal.
