On average, the first herpes outbreak in men lasts about two weeks while in women the average is three weeks. Additionally, because women frequently experience their herpes sores in the vagina, many may mistake the few herpes symptoms they have for some other type of infection. You may confuse herpes with an outbreak of boils. Boils are larger and more painful
Before a cold sore appears the area will sometimes tingle, feel slightly raised and may appear red and inflamed. This pain or tingling sensation is called the prodrome (or warning symptom) and typically occurs 1 to 2 days before the cold sore appears.
A cold sore generally appears as a small, fluid-filled blister which goes through a cycle of phases. The blister will usually weep (ulcerate) and form a scab or 'crusting' before healing and disappearing completely. The duration of a typical cold sore outbreak may last from 8 to 12 days some cases up to 20 days.
A cold sore generally appears as a small, fluid-filled blister which goes through a cycle of phases. The blister will usually weep (ulcerate) and form a scab or 'crusting' before healing and disappearing completely. The duration of a typical cold sore outbreak may last from 8 to 12 days some cases up to 20 days.
One or more of the following symptoms may be experienced if the infection is located in the genital area:
- Muscle aches or pains near to the area
- A blister, cut, tear, sore, bump or rash in the infected area
- Itching, tingling, or burning sensations
- Vaginal or penile discharge
- Burning and/or pain when urinating
- Flu-like symptoms such as headache, fever and swollen glands
Time before any herpes symptoms show
Herpes Incubation Period
The herpes virus can lay dormant for various time periods and may be in your system for a time period before any symptoms begin to show. The usual incubation period of the virus (time before any symptoms show) is approximately two to twelve days after the first exposure to the virus.
However, there are many possibilities. Some people never experience active symptoms and others may not experience a recognizable outbreak for several months or even years after exposure.
However, there are many possibilities. Some people never experience active symptoms and others may not experience a recognizable outbreak for several months or even years after exposure.
In women, herpes symptoms can also include vaginal discharge and pain or a burning sensation when urinating. About 25% of women will develop meningitis as a complication of their first herpes outbreak while another 10% to 15% will have troubles urinating because of their herpes.
Do I have herpes?
If you suspect that you have herpes and have not had your condition diagnosed it is important that you visit your health care provider as soon as possible for a professional analysis.
Genital herpes can be mistaken for many different conditions and should always be diagnosed professionally.
Genital herpes can be mistaken for many different conditions and should always be diagnosed professionally.