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Conditions That Can Sometimes Be Mistaken for Herpes

Although herpes is a common condition it is not always responible. There are many other conditions that react in a similar manner at a glance. Even ordinary nuisances, such as a sweat rash, pimples, jock itch and even an ingrown-hair, can sometimes be mistaken for herpes.

If any irritation is present it is recommended that you get a Doctor to take a look, he can then take further tests if necessary or prescribe the correct medication. A clinical test is often required to find out the real cause of the infection.

Is this herpes?

OK, so you have what you think could be herpes but are unsure...

To help figure out if your symptoms may be caused by the herpes virus there are some simple questions that you can begin with. Just remember, these points are merely a guide! Herpes is not always typical and can vary from the "norm".

• 1. Do the symptoms COME and GO?

  The herpes virus is only active on the skin for a short period of time before it retreats back inside the body, at which point the skin typically heals and returns to normal.

  Depending on the individual, the symptoms of a genital herpes infection can last as long as six weeks, but

  The typical duration of a genital outbreak is 3 to 14 days The typical duration of a cold sore outbreak is 8 to 12 days. If the infection persists for longer periods of time without relief it is possible that the cause is something other than herpes.




• 2. Does a blister or sore appear?

  A herpes breakout will sometimes (but not always) develop into a cut, sore, blister or lesion.

Real herpes symptoms can be overlooked or passed off as being something less significant, such as a pimple, bump, skin rash or ingrown hair.

If you have ANY doubt please contact your Doctor for appropriate testing.

Commonly Confused Conditions

It is very easy to confuse other conditions with herpes. Here are a few ailments commonly mistaken as being herpes:

Canker sores (Aphthous ulcers)

Canker sores are not a form of herpes, however, they are often confused and mistaken as herpes.

Canker sores are not considered to be contagious. Cold sores and mouth herpes on the other hand are caused by the herpes simplex virus and can be very contagious.

Canker sores usually occur inside the mouth, are gray in color and have a distinct edge. The sores will usually heal within 10 to 14 days, without treatment.

In comparison, oral herpes sores (such as cold sores or fever blisters) are caused by the Herpes simplex virus and are usually relatively easy to identify.

To view pictures of cold sores and oral herpes visit the links above.

Canker sores are ulcerations, especially of the lip or oral mucosa and can be caused by acute stress, trauma to the area in your mouth, allergies, or by a reaction to a particular bacteria.

Bacterial or yeast infections

Bacterial infections are sometimes confused with genital herpes, but do not usually produce blistering.

Some symptoms of a bacterial/yeast infection can include:

Vaginal discharge can be but is not always present Burning, irritation and itching in the vaginal area Painful urination and/or pain during intercourse Thick, grayish-white discharge is common and has the appearance of cottage cheese, although it can vary from watery to thick in consistency. If a yeast infection is present in a male, most often there are no symptoms. Some men have, however, reported a transient rash and burning of the penis after intercourse when condoms were not used. These possible symptoms are usually short lived.

If you are experiencing any unusual irritation, or if you suspect that you have contracted a sexually transmitted infection PLEASE consult your doctor or other health care provider immediately.

Genital herpes should always be diagnosed and treated professionally.