If you have the herpes simplex virus, which includes HSV1 and HSV2, fortunately, it’s not the end of the world because it is not life-threatening and as fatal as other STDs. The question is, how will you know you have herpes without a diagnosis from a doctor? These are the signs and symptoms that will help you self-diagnose the herpes virus.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Genital Herpes for Men and Women
There are common signs and symptoms of general herpes that are common in men and women. These symptoms are often noticed within a few days or weeks of contracting the disease. When symptoms occur almost immediately, they are often severe. During this time, you may notice small blisters forming on your body, especially the genitals, that are often painful. In time, these blisters will burst and cause open sores that will be painful and sensitive. Within 7 days or more, the healing process will begin, and the sores will begin to form scabs. You may also experience flu-like symptoms that include swollen lymph nodes, fever, sore throat, and sore muscles, congestion, headache, and a runny nose. Other symptoms of genital herpes in men and women include itching and tingling sensations around the genital area that is often accompanied by cracked and raw skin. These symptoms can also affect the anal region. Backaches and painful urination are two other common symptoms of genital herpes.
Signs and Symptoms of Oral Herpes In Men and Women
If you have oral herpes, you will notice blisters around your nose and mouth. Oral herpes is often called fever blisters or cold sores. There may be times when cold sores form on the inside of your mouth, on your gums, and on the roof of your mouth. These sores can range in size and some will be more painful than others. Some men and women do not experience any symptoms. Skin lesions may be another sign of oral herpes. Contact dermatitis is often mistaken for skin lesions caused by oral herpes. Acne is also frequently mistaken for skin dermatitis caused by oral herpes. Men and women often experience acne, especially young males and women whose ages range from 30 to 50. Acne causes a variety of blemishes, including whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and cysts. Skin lesions that are caused by oral herpes if accompanied by pain and itchiness. Acne is not associated with the same symptoms of skin lesions caused by this infection.
Scabies is another condition, like skin dermatitis, this is often mistaken for skin lesions associated with oral herpes. These conditions are similar because they both cause skin rashes and resemble clusters of little bumps. Both skin lesions and scabies are spread from one person to another through contact. Scabies more contagious than herpes because it can be transferred through clothing, furniture, and bedding while skin lesions are caused by oral herpes and are spread through sexual contact.
Herpes Treatment Options
As you are aware, there is no herpes cure, but there are treatments that can help reduce the frequency of outbreaks and help with the symptoms. Valacyclovir and Acyclovir are two herpes treatment options. Valacyclovir is an antiviral drug that is used to treat many different strands of the herpes virus, such as, chickenpox and shingles. Valacyclovir, also known as Valtrex, is also used to treat outbreaks caused by genital herpes and reduce the length of outbreaks. This antiviral drug can treat cold sores, especially ones that form around the mouth. Acyclovir, also known as Zovirax is available in a variety of forms, including injection, topical, and oral. Acyclovir is another antiviral drug that lessens the symptoms associated with genital herpes and cold sores.
Do you need to see a doctor? There’s no need to schedule an appointment or wait in long lines to be seen. Herpalert allows you to see a doctor from the comfort of your home. Herpalert is a Telehealth service that provides a diagnosis and treatment of HSV1 and HSV2. Once you are diagnosed, you will receive an e-prescription that will be sent to the pharmacy of your choice. There’s never been a better time to be seen. All of your information is secure and confidential. Don’t let herpes stand in your way of living life. See a doctor today.