Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by the herpes simple virus (HSV) type 2. The only way in which you can contract this virus is through direct contact with an individual suffering from genital herpes. However, not all cases of genital herpes are caused by this strain of virus. Some people suffer from genital herpes due to herpes simple virus type 1, which is the strain responsible for cold sores. Regardless of the strain involved with the infection, you can experience early warning symptoms of the condition.
Asymptomatic
For many people, genital herpes never present any early symptoms of the infection. It isn't until the occurrence of an actual outbreak that the condition becomes known to the individual. Sometimes, it may even take the infection of a partner for someone to learn that he is a herpes simplex virus carrier.
Pain
For others, an early symptom of genital herpes involves pain. This pain is usually isolated to the area of infection, such as the penis, testicles, vagina, buttocks or anus, and can manifest in as little as three weeks' time after the initial exposure. In addition to the outward sensation of pain, for some people, the herpes simplex virus can cause an internal pain that is felt upon urination.
Itching
Another common early symptom of genital herpes is best described as an itching or tingling sensation. And much like the symptom of pain, this itching or tingling is usually isolated to the area of infection and manifests as little as three weeks after being exposed to the herpes simplex virus.
Blisters
Often following the pain or itching sensation, blisters form within the area of exposure. But some people may never experience any pain or itching prior to the blisters and only suffer from the formation of these small, red bumps that soon ulcer and ooze.
Fever
At the very onset of a herpes infection, some people suffer from a low-grade fever, ranging anywhere between 99 to 101 degrees F. It is often accompanied by recurring headaches or muscle aches and may be experienced prior to any pain, itching or blisters to the area of infection.
Swollen Glands
Often associated with this low-grade fever is the symptom of swollen glands, even at the very onset of the infection. This swelling of the glands commonly takes place within the groin, but may also be experienced within the lymph nodes of the neck.
Tags: genital herpes, area infection, herpes simplex, herpes simplex virus, pain itching
