What is Herpes and What are its Symptoms

Oral and Genital Herpes Explained

So what is herpes? What are the symptoms of herpes and how do I know if I have it?

Herpes simplex is a viral infection that can involve the mouth (oral herpes) or genital region (genital herpes).

Oral Herpes (HSV-1)

There are two different strains of herpes simplex virus: Herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) usually affects the lips, mouth, and face such as fever blisters and cold sores. HSV-1 is commonly referred to as "oral herpes". It is spread through the saliva, and is most contagious when the carrier of the virus is experiencing what is commonly referred to as a herpes outbreak.

Genital Herpes (HSV-2)

Herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2), is often referred to as "genital herpes". It affects the genital region, causing genital blisters and sores.  HSV-2 is considered to be a sexually transmitted disease (STD). In addition to causing oral and genital blisters, this virus can also lead to complications such as meningoencephalitis or infections of the brain.

Symptoms of Herpes

Symptoms of HSV-1 and HSV-2 include mouth sores, fever blisters, genital lesions, blisters or ulcers in the mouth, lips and gums or genital region, fever, enlarged lymph nodes in the neck or groin area. These can be both very painful and unsightly.

Most diagnoses of herpes simplex can be made upon assessment by a health practitioner. If necessary, reliable tests may be ordered including blood test, viral culture of the lesion, and directs fluorescent antibody test.

Pamela Egan, MN, FNP-C, ABAAHP Diplomat (American Academy of Anti-Aging Health Practitioner) is a board certified Adult & Family Nurse Practitioner and Fellow of the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine. Pam is also a columnist at the St. Tammany News. She has written hundreds of health articles, which are available on her website. at  She can be reached either by visiting her website at www.pamelaegan.com, or by phone at 985-892-3031.

More Articles by Nurse Practitioner Egan:

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