Knowledge that we have been infected usually comes after genital herpes’ first outbreak.  Herpes is a widespread disease with experts estimating about forty to fifty million Americans infected with or exposed to the virus which causes the disease.

Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease that currently has no cure.  After genital herpes’ first outbreak of sores, the virus remains inside the infected person and hides within his or her nerve cells, escaping the attention of his or her immune system.  There it will remain until certain factors trigger another outbreak.

The problem with genital herpes is that not all people who have been infected with the virus exhibit its symptoms.  A vast majority of people who have genital herpes do not experience the appearance of genital sores but remain perfectly capable of transmitting the disease to another.

For the unfortunate few who do not experience genital herpes symptoms treatment, the first outbreak of sores is usually the most intense.  The good news is that these symptoms reduce in intensity and frequency as the years go by. 

The first outbreak of sores is usually experienced after four to seven days from getting infected.  The eruption is sometimes preceded by something called a prodome.  During a prodome, the infected person may experience an uncomfortable prickling or tingling sensation in the genital area and the areas near the rectum.  These areas may also develop a redness or rash and become itchy.  Some people with genital herpes experience fever, muscular pains, and headaches.

The duration of a prodome may last anywhere from a few hours to two days before the first blisters appear.  These blisters eventually burst and become small, painful, and open sores or ulcers.  These ulcers and sores can stay with an infected person from anywhere from two to twenty-one days after which the sores crust and heal.  Scarring from herpes sores is rare.

Though genital herpes has no cure, it can be treated.  The best genital herpes treatment is aimed at reducing the frequency and intensity of herpes outbreaks as well as hastening the healing and disappearance of sores.  Medication is also given to suppress consequent outbreaks of sores, address the other symptoms of the disease and prevent complications and other infection.

Antiviral medications work by interfering with the reproduction process of the herpes virus, allowing the body’s natural defenses time to fight off the virus without getting overwhelmed.  Antibacterial topical solutions are also available to help keep the sores clean and dry as well as hasten their healing.

Should you suspect that you have herpes immediately consult your physician for testing and proper treatment.