Skin Healing Concerns & Tips

Have your genitals been bothering you lately-- noticed strange lesions there, perhaps? Sores around your mouth? You just might be suffering from the signs of herpes. Herpes comes in two different forms. The first is Herpes Simplex Type 1, oral herpes that reveals itself in cold sores. Then there's Herpes Simplex Type 2, otherwise known as genital herpes. Although genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease, oral herpes can be transmitted to the mouth when it comes to oral sex.

But really, how do you know for sure if these unpleasant sores are actually symptoms of herpes, or something else? Often, especially in women, genital herpes is misdiagnosed as a yeast infection, boils, or pelvic inflammatory disease, so it's a good idea to read up on the disease if you're unsure of your diagnosis. If you visit your doctor, he or she can positively identify what you're suffering from. But let's get down to the details on the signs of herpes.

It is most common for herpes sufferers to have blisters and red bumps. They can show up in all sorts of places in or near the genital areas, such as thighs, buttons, anus, and near the urethra. What's worse, women can develop blisters inside their vaginas. They might experience vaginal discharge, and urinating could be painful.

In women, the first outbreak could last a few weeks on average-- three weeks, specifically. For men the time is shorter, an average of two weeks. Women need to be aware that they could develop meningitis, a direct result of the first herpes outbreak. Other symptoms of an outbreak of genital herpes include swelling of the lymph nodes in the groin, headaches, muscle aches, fever, and lower back pain. Consult your doctor if you find yourself experiencing any of these symptoms, such as sores in your genital area.

Unfortunately, recurring outbreaks are common. About four in five people can expect more herpes outbreaks. Most people will usually experience warning signs. The most noticeable will be pain in the areas where sores tend to develop. The signs of herpes are a warning. Please keep in mind that you're very contagious during this stage, even if you don't have any sores to show for it!