Genital herpes is often caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), but the University of Maryland Medical Center explains that HSV-1 can be transmitted from the oral region to the genitals, resulting in genital herpes. Symptoms of genital herpes vary from person to person. The initial symptoms can be different from recurrent outbreaks. Prodromal symptoms refer to the "warning" signs of an impending genital herpes outbreak, as indicated by the American Social Health Association. Commercial treatment products are often more effective when used during the prodrome stage of the infection.
Itching
According to the Mayo Clinic, an individual may experience prodrome symptoms of genital herpes a few weeks after contracting the virus from another infected person. Itching may be the first sign and it can range from mild to moderate. Any area of the genitals can be affected, and blisters will usually arise after the itching.
Pain
The skin where genital herpes will soon appear may become tender, burn or even tingle. The most common areas affected by genital herpes include the vaginal area, external genitals, buttocks, anus or cervix in women, according to the Mayo Clinic. Men can experience sores on the penis, scrotum, buttocks, anus, thighs or inside the urethra, according to the Mayo Clinic. The skin may appear red and even be warm to the touch.
Other Prodrome Symptoms
The prodrome symptoms occur just before tiny red bumps appear on the skin. Some individuals may experience flu-like signs during the prodrome phase as it nears the blister phase. These symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, include headaches, aching muscles, fever, chills or swollen glands in the groin area. These flu-like symptoms may occur during only the initial outbreak or with every recurring herpes outbreak.
