Understanding Herpes: Signs, Diagnosis, Prevention, and Treatment

Kortney Jones
5 days ago
3 min read

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections in the United States. While a diagnosis of herpes can feel overwhelming at first, the condition is manageable with medical guidance and support.

At Complete Healthcare in Richland, WA, we believe that education and compassionate care are essential. Whether you're concerned about symptoms, seeking a diagnosis, or managing a known infection, Dr. Richard Lorenzo, DO and Kortney Jones, ARNP are here to support you.

What Is Herpes?

Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus, which exists in two types:

HSV-1: Typically associated with oral herpes (cold sores), but can also cause genital herpes through oral-genital contact.
HSV-2: Primarily causes genital herpes and is transmitted through sexual contact.

Once infected, the virus stays in the body for life. However, not everyone with herpes experiences symptoms, and many people don’t know they are infected.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms may vary between individuals and between outbreaks. The first outbreak is usually the most noticeable and can occur 2 to 12 days after exposure.

Genital Herpes Symptoms:

Painful blisters or ulcers in the genital, anal, or thigh area
Itching, tingling, or burning before blisters appear
Painful urination
Flu-like symptoms (fever, body aches, swollen glands)

Oral Herpes Symptoms:

Cold sores or blisters around the lips and mouth
Tingling or burning near the mouth before a sore appears

Recurrent outbreaks tend to be milder and shorter over time. Some people may go months or years without an outbreak.

How Is Herpes Diagnosed?

If you suspect you have herpes, do not delay evaluation. Diagnosis typically includes:

Physical exam: Your provider will examine any sores or lesions.
Viral culture or PCR swab: A sample from the sore is tested for the virus.
Blood test: Can detect antibodies to HSV, helpful when no active sores are present.

At Complete Healthcare, we offer confidential testing and counseling. Our team provides a judgment-free environment so you can get the care you need with confidence.

How Is Herpes Treated?

While there is no cure for herpes, antiviral medications can help manage the condition.

Treatment Options:

Initial outbreak: A 7–10 day course of antiviral medication such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir.
Episodic therapy: Taken at the first sign of recurrence to shorten outbreaks.
Suppressive therapy: Daily medication to reduce the frequency of outbreaks and lower the risk of transmission to partners.

Treatment can also reduce the intensity of symptoms and the risk of complications.

Can Herpes Be Prevented?

While it’s not always possible to prevent herpes entirely, certain practices can lower your risk:

Use condoms consistently: Condoms reduce the risk but don’t eliminate it entirely, as herpes can spread through skin-to-skin contact.
Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks: The virus is most contagious when sores are present.
Disclose your HSV status to partners: Open communication allows for shared decisions around protection.
Consider daily antiviral therapy if you or your partner has herpes.

Pregnancy and Herpes: What You Should Know

If you're pregnant and have herpes—or think you might—be sure to tell your provider. Herpes can be transmitted to the baby during vaginal delivery, which can lead to serious complications.

Management during pregnancy may include:

Suppressive antiviral therapy in the third trimester
Cesarean delivery if active lesions are present at the time of labor

At Complete Healthcare, we offer expert OB-GYN care for women with HSV during pregnancy to reduce the risk of neonatal herpes.

Living with Herpes

A herpes diagnosis is not the end of a healthy, fulfilling life—sexually or otherwise. Many patients find that after education and support, they are able to manage the condition well.

You are not alone, and with the right treatment plan, outbreaks can be minimized, and transmission risks significantly reduced.

Schedule a Confidential Visit Today

At Complete Healthcare in Richland, WA, our providers offer compassionate, personalized care for patients dealing with herpes and other STDs. If you are experiencing symptoms, have questions, or need testing, don’t wait.