Herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), with two types: HSV-1 (oral herpes) and HSV-2 (genital herpes). This infection can take several forms, from mild symptoms to more severe outbreaks. Knowing what herpes looks like is important for early diagnosis, proper treatment, and prevention of transmission.
What Does Herpes Look Like?
Herpes symptoms can vary with the stage of the infection. Here are the various forms in which herpes may present itself:
Early Signs of Herpes
● Itching and Tingling – Affected areas may become itchy, tingling, or burning before visible signs can be seen.
● Redness and Inflammation – The skin may turn slightly red or inflamed, as if warning an outbreak is close.
● Flu-like Symptoms – Some people report fever, tiredness, headaches, and swollen lymph nodes before lesions develop.
Herpes Blisters and Sores
● Small Fluid-Filled Blisters – Tiny, painful blisters appear in clusters and contain clear or yellowish fluid.
● Blister Rupture – Eventually, the blisters open up, emptying their fluid and leaving open painful ulcers.
● Crusting and Healing – The sores scab over and heal in 1–2 weeks with little to no scarring.
Symptoms by Location
Oral Herpes (HSV-1)
● Cold sores or fever blisters around the lips, mouth, and nose.
● Painful ulcers inside the mouth or on the gums.
● Sore, sensitive lips that crack or bleed.
Genital Herpes (HSV-2)
● Blisters on or around the genitals, anus, or inner thighs.
● Painful urination.
● Itching and irritation in the genital area.
Herpetic Whitlow
● Herpes lesions on the fingers or hands, usually from touching infected areas.
● Painful blisters that may resemble small cuts or abrasions.
Herpes Keratitis (Eye Herpes)
● Redness, pain, and swelling of the eye.
● Watery discharge and photophobia.
● Blisters near the eye or on the eyelid.
Severe and Atypical Symptoms
● Eczema Herpeticum – A severe form where herpes spreads over eczema-affected skin.
● Neonatal Herpes – A dangerous condition occurring when newborns contract herpes during birth.
● Disseminated Herpes – A rare, severe infection spreading across multiple body parts.
Visual References and Additional Resources
Avant Medical Group offers reliable medical knowledge on herpes symptoms and treatment for clear medical images and details.
Important Features of Herpes Appearance
● Tingling and itching often precede the appearance of actual blisters.
● Fluid-filled blisters can occur in the case of both oral and genital herpes.
● The blisters then rupture and form painful ulcers that scab over.
● Herpes can manifest in the mouth, genitals, hands, or eyes.
● Cases may be minor, but most cause considerable distress.
Conclusion
Herpes is a common illness which is characterized by frequent blisters, sores, and inflammation. Treatment of the outbreak requires early presentation and consultation from your doctor. If you think you have herpes, it is advisable to seek professional medical advice from reputable health facilities, such as Avant Medical Group.