Herpes is a medical condition caused by an infection called herpes simplex virus (HSV). HSV can affect females and males of any age and may cause two different types of herpes infections: oral and genital. Herpes is highly contagious and is typically spread by either sexual contact or contact with the saliva or open sores of an infected person. Even if you develop no side effects from herpes you may still be contagious.
Fever
If you develop herpes, your body temperature may rise as your immune system responds to this infection. Fever is a normal defense because viruses--like HSV--are unable to efficiently grow and replicate in warm environments. If you develop a fever, you may also feel tired or irritable.
Headache
Certain people with herpes may experience headache. The presence of additional symptoms, such as fever, may exacerbate your headache, which may be mild to moderate in severity and can be localized within any region of your head. You may find over-the-counter pain medications, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or acetaminophen helpful in managing this side effect of having herpes.
Swollen Lymph Nodes
Your lymphatic system is an important component of your body's immune system and helps recognize and destroy invading infections. The lymphatic system is made up of blood vessels, specific organs and lymph nodes, the latter of which may become swollen or inflamed in response to infection. This condition---which is sometimes referred to as swollen glands---may cause you to experience aching pain or discomfort at the inflammation site. Swollen lymph nodes may develop in your neck, groin or under your armpits. Over-the-counter pain medications---particularly NSAIDs, which specifically treat inflammation---may be taken to mitigate this side effect.
Oral or Genital Blisters
Depending upon the type of herpes infection you have, you may develop blisters within or around your mouth or genital organs. Oral herpes may cause cold sores or fever blisters to develop on the lips, or around the mouth, nose or chin. Genital herpes may cause skin sores to develop around the genital organs, anus or buttocks. The sore may begin as a slight tingling or burning sensation of the skin and will develop into a fluid-filled blister within a couple of days. Once the blister bursts, it will dry out and form a crust of skin that will fall off after several days. Unfortunately, there is no cure for herpes and you may experience recurrent outbreaks of blisters and skin sores throughout your life. The North Dakota Department of Health Division of Disease Control notes that you can help prevent the spread of herpes by cleaning your skin regularly and preventing contact with skin sores.
