Understanding Mild Herpes

Mild herpes can easily be mistaken for a pimple, an ingrown hair, or simply a rash. 

Most people will dismiss these signs and symptoms as something else because they are hardly noticeable and disappear quickly. Some people will have a constant or recurring itch, but blisters never appear.

Are you having the same strange sensations happening in your body? Are you worried but unsure that you might have a mild case of herpes?

In our search for answers about herpes, it can really get confusing. This is because the herpes virus can mask itself and mimic signs and symptoms of other STDs. 

That is why the first thing you need to do is to see your doctor and get tested! It’s the only way to find some real answers and get some peace of mind.

So how do you know if what you (or your partner) may be experiencing is actually a mild case of herpes? 

Signs and Symptoms of Mild Herpes

The herpes simplex virus is what causes a mild case of herpes. It is a tiny, enveloped virus that has two serotypes: HSV1 (oral herpes) and HSV2 (genital herpes). The signs and symptoms of herpes vary from one person to another. 

For some women, symptoms are so mild that they mistake them as a yeast infection, rash, or insect bite. If the blisters are located inside the vagina or cervix, they might not notice them at all.

Men, on the other hand, experience mild genital herpes symptoms in their penis or scrotum. They can also feel itchiness around the thighs or buttocks. Unfortunately, these also go unnoticed and men usually mistake them as jock itch or razor burns.  

For oral herpes, a slight tingling sensation or rash may appear anywhere on the lips, cheeks, or mouth area. And because these go away quickly, most people would just ignore these signs.

It takes awhile before the body starts producing antibodies against herpes after initial exposure. Which is why, premature blood testing for herpes can bring back negative results. It is best to wait 10-12 days before getting tested.

Mild Herpes Outbreaks

(a mild case of herpes outbreak can look like a pimple)

A mild case of herpes outbreak tends to resolve within 2 to 10 days and heal without scarring. Sometimes it can even last half a day so symptoms can easily be overlooked.

Mild herpes outbreaks taper off in severity and frequency over time. This is due to the body’s immune system producing antibodies that help fight off the infection.

Currently, there is no cure for herpes. It is a lifelong infection that can recur when the body is stressed or weak. 

But the good news is that... mild herpes is easily manageable! All you need to do is stay away from outbreak triggers such as smoking, sun exposure, inadequate sleep, and stress. 

In a nutshell, herpes is just a mild skin condition that presents itself with some inconveniences from time to time. But with proper exercise, enough rest, and a healthy diet you can definitely stay clear from frequent outbreaks.

Treatment Options

Mild Herpes is still a form of herpes. It is still contagious. If you are sexually active with a non positive partner, consider taking antiviral suppressive therapy. This can effectively suppress the virus from causing outbreaks and reduce the risk of passing on the infection.

Herpes Medications such as Acyclovir are still the treatment of choice for most people with herpes. These powerful antiviral medicines are taken orally to speed up the healing process. They can get expensive but what's great is that you can get them for cheap at off-shore pharmacies like 4rx!

Some people swear by Natural Cure for Herpes as an alternative treatment option because of the minimum side effects. Plus, you can grow these in your own backyard.

Others prefer to boost their immune system with Lysine which is an essential amino acid needed to strengthen the body against the virus. Lysine comes in supplements and can be bought at your local pharmacy.

Whichever method of herpes treatment you choose, just remember that the sooner you treat a mild case of herpes outbreak, the sooner it goes away.

Mild Herpes Advice

The first and most important step in preventing transmission of herpes is to learn how to identify even the mildest symptoms. Herpes can be contagious even when no sores are visible on the skin surface. 

Here are a few tips that can help protect your health and the health of others:

  • From the onset of a slight tingle or rash, the virus is already actively shedding. This is called prodromal period and is your body’s way of warning you of an oncoming outbreak. It is best to take your antiviral medicine at the onset of this period to shorten the duration of an outbreak.
  • There are also people who experience asymptomatic shedding. This occurs when the herpes virus travels from the base of the spine (its hiding place) up to the skin surface and sheds. This can happen a few times a year and is unpredictable. No lesions appear nor warning signs felt. 
  • It is always recommended to double your antiviral medication and practice safe genital herpes sex when sexually active with a non positive partner. Even mild herpes can be transmitted during unprotected sex.
  • If you’re still unsure about herpes, set an appointment with your doctor or STD specialist. After all, they are the experts who can do a full assessment of your situation. Ask about a blood test for herpes and about the possible medication that is right for you.

Research more about the herpes virus as well or browse through our other pages about living with herpes. Being informed will help you make the right decision health-wise.

The more you know your body's mild herpes signs, the more effective it is for you to reduce the risk of transmission and lessen the frequency of future outbreaks.

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