Herpes symptoms: How to recognize herpes in the mouth and herpes genitalis
Herpes is a viral infection that can affect different parts of the body, depending on the type of herpes virus. The most common types are herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and type 2 (HSV-2). It is important to recognise herpes symptoms, whether it concerns herpes on the tongue, in the mouth, in the throat or in the genital area.
The most common symptoms
Symptoms of herpes vary depending on where on the body the infection occurs. Herpes in the mouth symptoms often include small blisters that can burst and leave sores, typically on the lips, but in some cases also in the mouth or on the tongue.
Herpes on the tongue can feel like small, painful sores that make it difficult to eat or drink. In rarer cases, herpes can also affect the throat. Herpes in the throat may present as pain and discomfort when swallowing, as well as swollen lymph nodes.
Genital herpes symptoms
Genital herpes symptoms often include itching, burning, and small blisters or sores on or around the genitals. These symptoms can vary in intensity and how often they recur, but many also experience flu-like symptoms during the first outbreak, such as fever and muscle aches.
Wherever the infection occurs, it is important to take symptoms seriously and seek medical advice, especially if you suspect genital herpes or severe herpes in the mouth or throat.
How are symptoms managed?
Treatment of herpes primarily focuses on relieving symptoms and reducing the duration of outbreaks. Antiviral medications can be effective in reducing both herpes symptoms and the risk of transmission. For people with frequent outbreaks, preventive treatment can be considered.
It is important to avoid sharing personal items such as towels, toothbrushes and glasses to minimise the risk of spreading oral herpes symptoms to others.
Are you unsure how and when herpes is transmitted, and how herpes is treated?
You can find more information on how herpes is transmitted here, and information about treatment options for herpes in our article.
Frequently asked questions
- Can herpes affect the tongue? – Yes, herpes on the tongue is possible and can cause painful sores.
- What are the symptoms of herpes in the throat? – Typical symptoms include pain when swallowing and swollen lymph nodes.
- How do I recognise genital herpes symptoms? – Look for small blisters or sores on the genitals, often accompanied by itching and burning.
- How is herpes treated? – Antiviral medications are the most common treatment to relieve symptoms and shorten outbreaks.