Show Herpes stagesHerpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) are the two types of herpes virus and will look different as they develop during five stages. There are two types of herpes virus that cause sores—painful blisters (fluid-filled bumps) that can break open and ooze fluid. Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) causes oral herpes (cold sores) and sometimes genital herpes, and herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) mostly causes genital herpes. Sores caused by HSV-1 and HSV-2 look similar. Herpes virus infects nerve groups, so you only get sores at the site of infection. If you have genital herpes, the sores are in the genital area. If you have oral herpes, they stay in the oral/nose area. Herpes sores develop in five stages. Here is how they look at each stage. Stage I:
Stage II:
Stage III:
Stage IV:
Stage V:
Because of their appearance, herpes sores may be confused with acne, contact dermatitis or ingrown hairs. Therefore, the only way to know for sure if you have herpes is to see a skin specialist (dermatologist) or sexual health specialist and have testing done. What are the other symptoms of a herpes outbreak?If you are experiencing the first outbreak of herpes, you are most likely to experience signs and symptoms that may include:
After the initial infection, the herpes virus stays inactive (dormant) in the nerves. It has a tendency to get reactivated and emerge as a new sore in certain situations. It is the reactivation that leads to the recurring outbreaks of herpes. Thankfully, consequent outbreaks after the first infection are usually associated with symptoms that are milder; even blisters heal faster than before. Outbreaks may be triggered by different things - stress, other illness, fatigue, hormone changes that occur during the menstrual cycle, or anything affecting your immune system, though anything can trigger an outbreak, and sometimes you may not know the trigger. If you touch sores present in your mouth or genitals and then touch other places in the body, you can transmit the infection to those places; one such example is herpes infection in the eyes. Children have a greater tendency to spread the virus from oral sores to their fingertips when they suck their thumbs. Once you have an established infection, and your body has produced antibodies, the chances of this happening are very low. It is important to know that in some people, asymptomatic herpes infections may occur. These people may not experience any symptoms but can still spread the virus to other people through oral-to-oral or sexual contact. Herpes can be transmitted asymptomatically (without symptoms present) by anyone with the virus because of something called asymptomatic viral shedding. This is when the virus is present on the skin with no symptoms. IMAGESGenital Warts (HPV) Browse through our medical image collection of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) as well as microorganisms that cause them See Images
What should you do if you have herpes?Herpes is contagious at all stages. It is most contagious when blisters burst and release their fluid. If you have herpes, you should take precautions to avoid its spread to other parts of your body and to other people. Here is what you should do.
During an outbreak:
You can resume sexual activity once the outbreak resolves. Remember, genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted disease (STD). Sores may be painful or may cause you discomfort. However, the disease is not deadly and rarely causes serious complications. Therefore, do not panic if you are diagnosed with it. There is no cure for herpes but certain over the counter and prescription medications from a doctor can help reduce the severity of symptoms and cause the sores to heal faster. Practice safer sex to the reduce risk of contracting herpes. For any additional concerns about herpes, do not hesitate to ask your doctor. Health NewsMedically Reviewed on 11/11/2021 References Image Source: Getty Images Mayo Clinic: "Cold Sore." "Genital herpes." WHO: "Herpes simplex virus." What does an HSV 2 Breakout look like?Herpes looks like white, yellow, or red translucent sores or bumps, filled with a clear liquid, whereas pimples are pink or red and are not see-through. While pimples may appear individually as well as in clusters but in recognizable patterns, herpes sores are primarily observed in a bunch.
How long does a HSV 2 breakout last?The first outbreak of genital herpes may last 2–4 weeks. During this time, the sores break open and release fluid. Over a period of days, the sores become crusted and then heal without leaving scars. What are the symptoms of recurrent herpes outbreak?
How do you know if you're about to have a hsv2 breakout?Symptoms. Pain or itching. You may experience pain and tenderness in your genital area until the infection clears.. Small red bumps or tiny white blisters. These may appear a few days to a few weeks after infection.. Ulcers. These may form when blisters rupture and ooze or bleed. ... . Scabs.. What does HSV 2 outbreak feel like?The most common symptoms of genital herpes is a group of itchy or painful blisters on your vagina, vulva, cervix, anus, penis, scrotum (balls), butt, or the inside of your thighs. The blisters break and turn into sores. You might have these other symptoms too: burning when you pee if your urine touches the herpes sores.
|