Herpes - The Most Significant Symptom.

There are many different types or variants of herpes and they all generate some type of eruption or herpes outbreak of sores or lesions.

Two herpes family strains are dominant. The strain that will affect the upper body (above the waistline) is herpes simplex virus 1 or HSV 1. This virus is responsible for causing mainly oral herpes.

The other dominant strain of the herpes family is the herpes simplex 2 virus which is known as as HSV 2. Herpes Simplex 2) affects the lower part of the body. HSV 2 is normally spread via sexual realtionscontact of a sexual nature and affects the genitalia as well as the buttocks and lower back. We will be talking about the type of outbreaks this virus causes in greater detail a little further on.

Herpes simplex 1 is the mildest form of the herpes virus. The outbreaks are cold sores, or fever blisters, that are found contagious and incurable. The way to pass this virus is by the contact with the lesions. This virus can also result in genital herpes, but it is generally located around the mouth.

When your immune system is weak or you are coming down with the flu or a cold is normally when the HSV 1 causes outbreaks in the form of fever blisters.

Herpes simplex 2 is the most commonly talked about form of herpes. This strain is passed through some form of sexual intercourse. The blisters that occur from this strain are similar to cold sores; The herpes virus that causes genital herpes is the virus that is the most virulent. It causes lesions and blisters on the genitals and surrounding pubic areas including the buttocks and the anus.

With genital herpes in males, the lesions may occur on the shaft of the penis, the genital region, or on the inner thigh, buttocks, or anus. In females, lesions may occur on or near the pubis, labia, clitoris, vulva, buttocks, or anus. This may require careful examination; during a vaginal birth a flashlight is suggested. The appearance of herpes lesions and the experience of outbreaks in these areas vary according to each individual.

So what does genital herpes look like? Sometimes herpes simply manifests as reddening of the affected area. It is popssible that you could also feel feverish and even have some flu like aches and pains. A secretion from the penis or vagina may also occur.

That first outbreak of herpes will always be the the most severe and long lasting! Expect to suffer from swollen lymph glands and flu systems apart from the the eruptions. Subsequent outbreaks will inevitably be less severe:shorter in length and not as acute and could happen about 5 times a year. This obviously will depend on the state of your immune system and how much stress you have in your life.