Because the herpes virus is so common most people who have either genital or oral herpes do not know that they have it.   Additionally, the symptoms of HSV1 or 2 may be mild or at time, may not appear for days, weeks, or even years and sometimes no symptoms of herpes are present at all.  It is important to note that symptoms do not have to be present in order to contract this virus, so it is important that you prevent transmission through proper hygiene and awareness.

Herpes outbreaks
The most common symptoms of the herpes simplex virus display themselves as sores, ulcers or lesions.  An outbreak of herpes lesions may have symptoms similar to insect bites, or other common ailments ('jock itch'). A herpes outbreak can occur on the skin of the mouth, lips and face, or around the genitals.  

Herpes sores follow a similar cyclical pattern and appear first like pimples that turn into small vesicles.  Then, the skin becomes crusty, and eventually a scab is formed.  It can take up to several weeks for the lesions to heal, during which time there may be one outbreak followed by another.  Certain risk factors may increase the likelihood of an outbreak, such as: asthma medication, lack of sleep, stress, decreased immunity and ultraviolet rays.

Herpes symptoms
Because some people do not have significantly noticeable symptoms, even professionally trained health workers may have difficulty determining if a person has herpes from a visual exam alone. But some common signs and symptoms of herpes include:

• Fever
• Headaches
• Itching
• Muscle aches
• Painful urination
• Swollen glands
• Vaginal discharge

Genital herpes is contracted through sexual activity, and may show symptoms around the genital area (anus, buttocks, thigh, penis, vulva, etc.). Additionally, people with HIV can experience significantly worse symptoms of herpes.  See a doctor if your partner has herpes, or if you notice any unusual sores on your body.  How do you know if you have herpes?  Read more in our Diagnosing Herpes section here.