How long does a genital herpes outbreak last? onset and recovery insights

Genital herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2). It can be dormant for long periods and may only reactivate later, leading to recurrent outbreaks.

Genital herpes is most often spread through sexual contact. Both types of herpes virus can cause sores and blisters in the genital area, although HSV-1 typically causes oral herpes, while HSV-2 is more commonly the cause of genital herpes. Many people who have herpes do not experience symptoms, and the virus may remain unnoticed until an outbreak occurs.

During a herpes outbreak, small, painful blisters appear on the skin in the affected area. These blisters can burst and turn into open sores or ulcers, which eventually crust over and heal.

The first time you are infected with genital herpes, you may feel unwell with a fever and flu-like symptoms. This is then followed by blisters that develop in the genital area.

The amount of time a herpes outbreak lasts depends on whether it's a first outbreak or a recurrent one.

The first outbreak usually lasts 2 to 4 weeks, with symptoms peaking in the first 7 days. Recurrent outbreaks typically last 7 to 10 days and are usually milder.

After the first outbreak, the virus stays dormant in the body and can reactivate due to various triggers, leading to shorter and less severe recurrent outbreaks over time.

Timeline of a herpes outbreak

While the exact timeline varies from person to person, an outbreak typically follows this pattern:

• days 1 to 2 – tingling or itching in the affected area.
• days 3 to 5 – blisters form, typically filled with fluid.
• days 5 to 7 – blisters burst and form painful ulcers.
• days 7 to 14 – the ulcers begin to crust over and heal.
• day 14 – the outbreak usually resolves, though it can take longer in some cases.

The first signs of a herpes outbreak usually include a tingling, itching, or burning sensation in the affected area. This may be followed by pain or discomfort when urinating. In some cases, flu-like symptoms such as fever and swollen lymph nodes can also occur.

Within a few days, blisters may appear, which eventually burst and form ulcers. The ulcers can be painful, especially when passing urine.

Several factors can trigger a herpes outbreak, including:

• having a cold or feeling unwell
• illness or weakened immune system
• sun exposure or skin irritation
• sexual activity
• hormonal changes (for example, having your period)
• stress
• smoking
• drinking alcohol
• wearing tight clothing

Triggers can vary from person to person, and sometimes outbreaks occur without an obvious cause. If you have recurrent genital herpes outbreaks, you may start to recognise things that might trigger an outbreak. Often though, there is no obvious trigger for a genital herpes outbreak.

Antiviral medications are the most common treatments for managing herpes outbreaks. These medications can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms when taken early in the outbreak. You can treat a genital herpes outbreak with 3 different antiviral medications available from Asda Online Doctor:

• aciclovir
• valaciclovir
• famciclovir

If taken early during an outbreak of genital herpes (in the first 1 or 2 days), antiviral medicines can shorten the duration of the outbreak by 1 or 2 days. Taking antiviral medicines to treat a genital herpes outbreak can also reduce the severity of symptoms.

If you have had multiple herpes outbreaks (6 or more during a year), you may be able to take antiviral medication to try and reduce the number of outbreaks. You can speak to your doctor for advice on whether taking antiviral medication to prevent genital herpes outbreaks is suitable for you.­­­

How to relieve symptoms of genital herpes at home

You can take paracetamol or use an anaesthetic gel (5% lidocaine) to relieve any pain you feel during a genital herpes outbreak. Lidocaine is available on prescription, so speak to your doctor if you need help to relieve any pain or discomfort. Apply the 5% lidocaine gel on affected areas before urinating.

There are also several home remedies to ease the symptoms of a herpes outbreak:

• apply Vaseline gently to any ulcers to reduce pain when urinating
• wash blisters gently with salty water to prevent infection
• avoid using scented soaps or bubble baths
• try urinating in the shower or under running water to soothe pain
• hold an ice pack wrapped in a cloth over the painful area to numb it
• avoid sex until all ulcers have healed completely
• drink plenty of water