How Do I Know if I Have Genital Herpes?

Condition analysis:
Most people who have herpes have no, or very mild symptoms. You may not notice mild symptoms or you may mistake them for another skin condition, such as a pimple or ingrown hair. Because of this, most people who have herpes do not know it.

Genital herpes sores usually appear as one or more blisters on or around the genitals, rectum or mouth. The blisters break and leave painful sores that may take weeks to heal. These symptoms are sometimes called "having an outbreak." The first time someone has an outbreak they may also have flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, or swollen glands.

Repeat outbreaks of genital herpes are common, especially during the first year after infection. Repeat outbreaks are usually shorter and less severe than the first outbreak. Although the infection can stay in the body for the rest of your life, the number of outbreaks tends to decrease over a period of years.

You should be examined by your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms or if your partner has an STD or symptoms of an STD, such as an unusual sore, a smelly discharge, burning when urinating, or, for women specifically, bleeding between periods.

Instructions:
1) Warm Bath or Shower:
Tame symptoms of genital herpes that accompany a primary or severe secondary attack by taking a warm bath or shower around three to four times per day. Some people have enjoyed relief by blow-drying the genital region with a hair dryer on a low or cool setting. For some, the heat helps dry out sores and speed up the healing process.

2) Cotton Underwear:
Choose loose-fitting, cotton underwear to allow air to reach the genital region – an act that can play an essential role in healing. It is important to let your skin breathe.

3) Tea:
Moisten a tea bag and apply to sores, as the tea contains tannic acid that can soothe painful genital tissues.