Genital Herpes Symptoms Overview
Herpes is viral STD (sexually transmitted disease) that is caused by both Type 1 and Type 2 of the simplex virus. It is categorized into multiple classes based on location of infection. The two most common classes of the disease are oral and genital. The virus in transmitted from person to person via direct contact with an infected lesion of the body or the exchange of body fluid from an infected person. Transmission is also possible through direct skin-to-skin confrontations with an infected individual at certain times. Due to its easy transmission, it is the most common STD in the United States. There are nearly 1 million new cases of the STD every single year, yet the number of new cases is slowly declining. Still, 1 in 5 people over the age of 12 are carriers of the STD. While there is still no cure for herpes and/or herpes symptoms, there are treatments that can reduce the amount of viral shedding and the severity of the outbreaks. There are multiple vaccines participating in clinical trials, but none have yet to demonstrate any sort of effectiveness against the STD.
Oral Herpes Symptoms
Most cases of herpes go unnoticed in, not just women, but men as well. In fact, despite the approximate 1 million new cases every year, there is thought to be even more cases that go unnoticed and untreated. However, many cases involve a serious first outbreak that explicitly reveals the infection. Oral herpes is the most common form of the disease in men and women. The outbreak consists of several large, red blisters located around the mouth, or even in the mouth and/or throat. These blisters are typically very painful, especially during the consumption of food and water. In men and women alike, herpes symptoms that appear in the form of blisters on the mouth tend to be the most painful, not to mention embarrassing and revealing. Often times, other symptoms, such as a fever, can accompany the outbreak. However, 2 out of 3 times, distinct herpes symptoms cannot be seen. There will be no sore or other related symptoms. With this being said, if you or someone you have been in contact with suspects of the STD, you should get yourself tested as soon as possible.
Genital Herpes Symptoms
Besides the oral class of the disease, the genital class is the most common form of herpes. Herpes symptoms of the genitalia are somewhat similar to that of oral symptoms. In men, a rash and bumps may form anywhere near the penis, scrotum, or anus. The sores are typically extremely itchy, and can often times be immensely painful, especially during sexual intercourse and even excretion. In women, herpes symptoms tend to be even more severe when located on the genitals. Like men, a rash and bumps located near or on the vagina and anus can be expected. Also, swollen lymph nodes near the groin and a fever can arise. However, symptoms in women can often be misleading and confusing. When lesions arise around the vagina, they can often emit a smelly, mucous-like, discharge resembling that of a yeast infection or other form of infection. In both men and women, sexual intercourse and urination becomes very painful. If you think your partner is uncomfortable or in pain, herpes may be the reason. If for any reason you believe that someone you have had intercourse with may be infected, it is essential that you get tested immediately.
