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Genital herpes is a disease caused by infection with the herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2), although it is sometimes caused by genital infection with HSV-1 (the cold-sore virus). Genital herpes has several easily identified symptoms, although they are not the same for everyone.
Prodrome
The first symptom of genital herpes is known as prodrome; this is a burning, itching or tingling feeling in the area before an actual outbreak of sores occurs, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Sores
Genital herpes sores are a red rash with blisters (fluid-filled bumps) that occur on the genitals and nearby areas like the thighs and buttocks, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Time Frame
Genital herpes sores eventually break, leaving an ulcer that heals within a week or two, according to Medline Plus.
Other Symptoms
Other symptoms of genital herpes may include lowered appetite, fever, malaise (feeling generally ill), and aching in the lower back, buttocks, thighs and knees, according to Medline Plus.
First Outbreak
The first outbreak of genital herpes, which happens within several weeks after transmission, is usually the worst one, and people tend to have fewer outbreaks over time (though some continue to have repeated outbreaks), according to the Mayo Clinic and Medline Plus.
Considerations
Most people who have genital infection with a herpes virus have no symptoms or have mild symptoms that they either overlook or mistake for another condition, according to the Mayo Clinic and Medline Plus.
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