Herpes Symptoms and Treatment

Herpes is a virus that is very common around the world. HSV-1, or herpes simplex 1, is the leading cause of herpes infections. HSV-2, or herpes simplex virus 2, is also common.

HSV-1 most often causes oral herpes but can sometimes cause genital herpes. Many people get oral herpes as children or young adults. HSV-2 usually causes genital herpes but can occasionally cause oral herpes.

Many people never realize they have a herpes infection because they do not have any symptoms or their symptoms are mild. Others have painful or uncomfortable symptoms that last for weeks or recur periodically.

Symptoms of Oral Herpes

An oral herpes infection can cause sores in the throat, and inside and around the mouth. Occasionally, an outbreak can cause sores that spread across parts of the face, especially with too much sun exposure. The first outbreak is usually the most severe. In addition to sores, other symptoms of oral herpes include:

• Body aches or chills.
• Fever and headache.
• Sore throat.
• Swollen glands.

Oral herpes outbreaks can last for as long as two to three weeks. If you have an oral herpes infection, you may have just one outbreak or additional outbreaks over time. Usually, the recurrent outbreaks are less severe than the first.

Symptoms of Genital Herpes

A genital herpes outbreak often begins with a cluster of small, painful blisters that appear at the infection site. Over time, these blisters break open and become sores. The herpes blisters and sores can develop on the vulva, anus, butt, upper thighs, penis or scrotum. You can also get sores inside the vagina or the urethra.

Genital herpes sores can last between two and six weeks. During your first outbreak, you can also experience the following:

• Body aches or chills.
• Difficulty urinating or a burning feeling.
• Fever and headache.
• Swollen glands.

How To Prevent Herpes Infection

There are many ways you can reduce your risk of herpes infection. If someone has herpes, it is critical that they wash their hands often and after touching the affected area. Using condoms can reduce your risk. But infection is still possible if you come in contact with the skin or sores of an infected person. Avoiding skin-to-skin contact with a person who has herpes is key. You cannot get herpes from sitting on a toilet seat.

How To Treat Herpes Symptoms

There is no cure for herpes, but you can treat the symptoms. Over-the-counter topical and pain relief medications can relieve the itchy, painful symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms for the first time or struggling to manage them, it might be time to get medical attention. A doctor can prescribe antiviral medication that can shorten the length of your outbreak and reduce symptoms. Some prescription medications can also help reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others.

Seek Medical Attention for Your Painful Herpes Symptoms at ProMedica Toledo Hospital Emergency and Urgent Care

When you are having painful herpes symptoms, you may struggle with discomfort and embarrassment. ProMedica Toledo Hospital Emergency and Urgent Care provides patients with quality care and services. Staff are ER-trained to determine patient conditions, and patients only pay for the level of service they receive - either ER or urgent care. The emergency department is open 24/7, and the urgent care clinic is open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. You don’t need an appointment. All walk-ins are welcome.

ProMedica Toledo Hospital Emergency and Urgent Care is located at 1075 Medical Center Parkway, Maumee, OH 43537.