“What does herpes look like?” is a simple enough question to ask. Unfortunately, the answer isn’t quite as simple to come by. Because the visible indicators of a herpes outbreak closely resemble the symptoms of several other sexually transmitted diseases, and because no two infected individuals will always experience the same symptoms, the only way to be certain that you’ve contracted the HSV-2 virus (genital herpes) is by submitting to a test by your health care provider.
Despite the aforementioned challenges, it is possible to identify several, common visual signs of a genital herpes outbreak. When reviewing the following information, however, the potentially infected person should keep in mind that these symptoms will only be visible during an outbreak. It is also imperative to remember that, in many cases, there will be no obvious indications of infection while an individual is experiencing an outbreak.
Commonly-seen symptoms of a herpes outbreak include:
Inflammation and redness on, or around, the genitals
A typical early sign of a herpes outbreak is a tingling, burning, or itching sensation in the genital region. This will usually be followed, shortly thereafter, by the appearance of reddened, swollen skin in isolated patches.
Fluid-filled blisters on the genitals, thighs, buttocks or groin
The most-obvious, visible indication of a genital herpes outbreak, these clusters of painful, reddish blisters are what most people would respond if asked, “What does herpes look like?” Because the blisters initially erupt as small, clearish bumps, they are sometimes confused with pimples in their early stages. Their rapid growth, and its accompanying irritation, pain and swelling, increase dramatically in the ensuing days, making the true nature of the outbreak apparent.
Draining sores and ulcers on the thighs, buttocks, groin area, or genitals themselves
Within several days of the first appearance of blisters, the herpes outbreak moves into its final, and usually most painful stage, as leaking sores and ulcers develop. The accompanying irritation and sensitivity subsides as the sores dry out and heal, but the individual remains highly contagious during this period.
Small, red bumps in the same area where outbreaks usually occur
To reiterate a point made at the outset of this article, the visible symptoms of herpes do not necessarily appear the same in every individual. While most would answer “blisters” to the question of “What does herpes look like”, it is just as possible that “small, reddish bumps” (which can often be confused for insect bites) could be the appropriate response. Because herpes blisters can form beneath the skin, as well as above it, these small bumps can be an indication that an outbreak is taking place.
The appearance of any of the visible symptoms discussed in this article is not a definitive sign that you are infected with genital herpes. It is, however, an indication that you should get yourself tested by a licensed physician. It is entirely possible that your symptoms are from genital herpes, but it is also possible that it is a more serious sexual disease.
Syphillis, for example, causes symptoms very similar to those of genital herpes (e.g., small, painful blisters on the genitals). If left untreated, however, syphillis can lead to severe health complications. On the other side of the equation, there are numerous common skin irritations that can create symptoms similar to some of those experienced during a herpes outbreak.
As far as answering this article’s primary question “What does herpes look like?” is concerned, there obviously is no clear answer. It is safe to say, however, that anyone who experiences any of the symptoms mentioned, should make it a priority to see a physician and undergo testing. There simply is no other way to find out if you have been infected with genital herpes.
Learn more answers to the question What Does Herpes Look Like. Stop by Devin Brindinshire’s site where you can find out all about Herpes Symptoms in Men and related issues.