Herpes breakouts often flare up again and agin, but the signs and symptoms are slightly different. During future breakouts, you might experience back pain, knee pain, buttocks pain, and upper leg pain, and you might notice an uncomfortable tingling sensation around where the herpes originated. Thankfully, repeated herpes outbreaks only hang around for a week or less. [6] X Trustworthy Source American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Professional association of OB/GYNs focused on education and public outreat initiatives Go to source
Genital herpes can sometimes be confused for an ingrown hair or zit. If you notice any symptoms similar to this, see your doctor right away. [8] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source
Genital herpes can also be caused by HSV-1, although it’s less common. [11] X Research source HSV typically takes at least 2 days to show obvious symptoms. In some cases, it takes up to 10 days for symptoms to appear. [12] X Trustworthy Source American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists Professional association of OB/GYNs focused on education and public outreat initiatives Go to source
Using a contaminated sex toy can also spread HSV-2.
Medical treatments can help you manage your symptoms, but herpes will ultimately clear up and temporarily go away on its own. [15] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
Different health issues and life events can cause herpes to flare up again, like a menstrual cycle, fever, or stressful experience.
Valacyclovir (Valtrex), acyclovir (Zovirax and Sitavig), and famciclovir (Famvir) are common medications used to treat herpes. [19] X Trustworthy Source World Health Organization Health information and news provided by the World Health Organization Go to source These are only available via prescription, though, so talk to your doctor about your options. [20] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Take NSAIDs like ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen if you’re dealing with a lot of pain. Some people have found success treating their herpes with natural remedies. Always talk with your doctor before trying any of these, though.
Keep in mind that herpes can be spread through skin contact. Even if you or your partner wears a condom, you can still potentially pick up herpes from other parts of your skin making contact.
At the very least, wait for the person’s cold sore to completely heal before up before you share food and other personal items with them. They’re much less likely to spread HSV at this point.
