1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)

What Are The Symptoms of Herpes?

By Elizabeth Boskey, Ph.D., About.com

Updated January 31, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

An outbreak of genital herpes is characterized by the presence of several blisters that break open and become painful sores.

An outbreak of genital herpes is characterized by the presence of several blisters that break open and become painful sores.

Photo courtesy of the CDC/ Dr. N.J. Flumara.; Dr. Gavin Hart
Question: What Are The Symptoms of Herpes?
Answer:
  • painful sores (see image)
  • tingling or burning sensation
  • pain or burning with urination
  • outbreaks, in people with symptoms, usually decrease in frequency over time
  • flu-like symptoms, including fever and/or swollen glands (first outbreak only)
  • Most cases have no symptoms.
Learn more about the symptoms of other STDs here.
Explore Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
About.com Special Features

Learn how you can reduce your your numbers with these nutrition and exercise tips. More >

Keep yourself, and your family, happy and healthy this fall with these tips. More >

We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here.
  1. Home
  2. Health
  3. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
  4. STD Basics
  5. Symptoms FAQ
  6. Herpes - What Are The Symptoms of Herpes? - Herpes Symptom>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.