Herpes outbreaks usually last for about one to two weeks, though the first outbreak after infection may last longer. The symptoms typically go away on their own without treatment. However, there are at-home remedies and prescription treatments which may help to ease symptoms and shorten the length of outbreaks. Herpes outbreaks may continue to occur, but many people find that they become shorter and less severe over time. Show
Types of HerpesThere are two types of herpes, both of which stem from the herpes simplex virus (HSV):
Some people with herpes never experience symptoms. However, they are still capable of transmitting the virus to others. Get Herpes Treatment At Home Nurx offers prescription cold sore and genital herpes treatment for as little as $0 with insurance or $15 per month without insurance. Onset of First OutbreakThe first outbreak of oral herpes usually develops within about one to three weeks after infection. This initial outbreak may last for up to three weeks. With genital herpes, the first outbreak usually occurs within about two to 20 days. Similar to oral herpes, the initial outbreak may last as long as three weeks. Herpes Outbreak SymptomsGenerally, the first outbreak of herpes is more severe than recurrences that follow. Though sores are the most noticeable sign of infection, there are a number of other symptoms of herpes that typically occur only during the first outbreak, including flu-like symptoms such as:
Herpes sores progress through a series of defined stages as they develop. The following is an approximate timeline for the first outbreak of oral or genital herpes after infection:
Differences Between Oral and Genital Herpes OutbreaksThe location of the sores is the main difference between the two types of herpes. Oral herpes sores generally develop on the mouth and lips, usually at the border of the lip where it meets the skin of the face. Genital herpes sores can occur in a wider variety of locations depending on where the virus entered the body. These locations may include:
There are also a few additional herpes outbreak symptoms which are only associated with genital infections, such as:
Outbreak FrequencyAfter the initial outbreak is over, the symptoms are likely to return. Most people with herpes have several outbreaks each year. However, over time, those outbreaks may become less frequent, especially if you take antiviral medication for herpes. For example, sores may last for only about a week and feel less painful than during the first outbreak. Tips for Managing Herpes SymptomsThe symptoms of herpes can be painful and uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are a few things you can easily do at home to help ease these symptoms, including:
Taking proper care of your skin and overall health while experiencing an outbreak can help to prevent complications like infection and assist in faster healing for your sores. Keep in mind that you are especially contagious during an outbreak, so it’s best to avoid intimate contact, such as kissing or sex, until the sores heal. Herpes Treatment OptionsWhile there is no cure for herpes, there are treatment options available for people with frequent outbreaks. If you want to minimize your outbreaks, make an appointment with your healthcare provider. They can take a swab from a sore or do a blood test to confirm if the herpes virus is the cause of your outbreaks. Herpes treatment involves taking antiviral medicine. There are antiviral creams and ointments which may be applied to provide relief for burning, itching, or tingling associated with herpes blisters. During an outbreak, a shot of intravenous medication or oral pills may be recommended to help shorten the duration of symptoms. For those with frequent outbreaks, doctors may prescribe a daily antiviral medication, also known as suppressive therapy. These medications can make outbreaks less severe and less frequent while also reducing the risk of transmission to others. Some of the prescription antiviral medicines used to treat both oral and genital herpes are:
If you’ve been previously diagnosed with herpes, the medical team at Nurx can prescribe oral or genital herpes treatment online and deliver the medication to your door with free shipping. To request herpes treatment from Nurx, get started here. Further ReadingHerpes Simplex, MedlinePlus, October 2019. Genital Herpes – CDC Fact Sheet (Detailed), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, January 2017. Can you have your first herpes outbreak years later?— The first time a person has noticeable signs or symptoms of herpes may not be the initial episode. For example, it is possible to be infected for the first time, have few or no symptoms, and then have a recurrent outbreak with noticeable symptoms several years later.
Can first herpes outbreak be months later?People may have their first outbreak of genital herpes months or even years after being infected by the virus. The first time you have genital herpes, it takes an average of 20 days for it to go away if left untreated. Later episodes are milder, though, and generally go away within 10 days.
How do I know if this is my first herpes outbreak?The first outbreak is usually the worst. At first, you might develop some flu-like symptoms. Then you might feel itchy or have an uncomfortable feeling around your genitals or mouth before the lesions appear. Future outbreaks are likely to be milder and resolve faster.
Can you lead a normal life with herpes?People with herpes have relationships and live totally normal lives. There are treatments for herpes, and there's a lot you can do to make sure you don't give herpes to anyone you have sex with. Millions and millions of people have herpes — you're definitely not alone.
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