Common Symptoms with a Herpes Outbreak:
by Ask a Healer
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GENITAL HERPES - THE FIRST OUTBREAK: Symptoms of a genital herpes outbreak typically occurs within a few days to a a few weeks after first being exposed to the virus. The types of exposure that can result in an infection include having unprotected oral sex or sexual intercourse. The severity of the first outbreak is often more severe than subsequent outbreaks but there are also those for whom the initial outbreak may be so mild as to go undiagnosed as herpes. Though the initial occurrence often causes the characteristic blisters, it doesn't always do so.
Subsequent recurrences of the virus usually cause an outbreak of blisters. Fortunately, the healing of the skin from these blisters does not normally leave scarring. However, the area of a previous herpes lesion may be sensitive for quite some time after an outbreak.
After the immune system has overcome the herpes virus, it retreats into the nerve ganglia and becomes dormant until again triggered into activity by any number of stressors. Catching the virus in its early stages almost always results in a shorter outbreak time.
TYPICAL HERPES SYMPTOMS: When it gets into skin cells the virus reproduces itself and starts to multiply, making the skin red and sensitive. Blisters or bumps may appear on the genital area, the blisters first opening, and then healing with the regeneration of new skin tissue.
The infected area is usually painful and may itch, burn or tingle, during the outbreak. Other symptoms include swollen lymph glands, painful inflamed blisters which develop around infected area, muscle aches, headaches, fever, urethra infection that can cause burning sensation when urinating, and vaginal or penile discharge.
The first episode of a herpes outbreak is typically the most severe, with most episodes lasting 10 - 21 days. A warning sign (prodrome) such as tingling is experienced by many people in recurring outbreaks. Should any of these symptoms occur, consult your doctor or other health care provider immediately. Genital herpes should be diagnosed professionally because other health conditions may sometimes mimic a herpes lesion.
Subsequent outbreaks most typically occur at area of previous lesions so some find it beneficial to apply an antiviral like tea tree oil during the predome period, that time before and actual outbreak when one may experience pre-outbreak tingling or sensitivity. While there is no recognized cure for the herpes virus, tea tree oil does have the property of killing herpes virus as it surfaces and may, in some individuals, lead to a less virulent recurrence. Continue with herpes infections information
Health Disclaimer: The articles on herpes and treatment options for HSV on this website are all educational in nature and intended to replace any needed medical testing, evaluation or treatment. You may experience symptoms during an outbreak beyond what is listed here. Any time a symptom becomes troubling, lasts too long or interferes with your daily function, you should seek the appropriate health evaluation. Hopefully, you will choose a doctor who is open to the idea of further supporting the body with natural antivirals and not just suppressing symptoms with Valtrex.
