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What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Herpes?

Posted on Thu, 12 Nov 2015

Question: I'm concerned I have contracted herpes - I have only had one sexual partner, and he has never exhibited any signs of herpes (We have dated for a year and a half). For the past week or so I have had a rash of some kind on my buttocks, in between my cheeks near the anus (I occasionally suffer from hemorrhoids as well and I have been more sensitive lately). At first I thought it was poison ivy, but it has never really itched. I began treating it like poison ivy and started taking epsom salt baths. The irritation seems to go down after the baths, and I have been trying to keep the area as dry as possible. But as the days progressed, what look like ulcers formed as well and it is extremely uncomfortable. For the most part, no other areas have been effected, but today I noticed two red bumps on my vaginal lip. I have scheduled an appointment with my OB/GYN later this week, but I'm so stressed. Do you think it is likely I'm suffering from herpes? Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Answered by Dr. VINAY KUMAR (47 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Some measures for immediate relief

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Welcome to the portal.

I am Dr V XXXXXXX a Sr Consultant Dermatovenereologist. I have analyzed your description.

It seems that you are likely to be having a fungal and bacterial infection affecting different areas. Herpes in generally in the form of bunch of small blisters or ulcers over a reddish base.The rash in the gluteal region matches the description of fungal infection called as Candidiasis while the other one corresponds to a bacterial infection.Both problems can be managed and you are being offered some suggestions for the same:

1 Good hygiene in the form of warm saline compresses every three to four hours and followed by drying.

2 a miconazole preparation for the area between the buttocks and Mupirocin ointment for the lesions on the front.

3 Fluconazole single tablet course for fungal infection and a suitable antibiotic for the bacterial infection. If you are not unduly uncomfortable, you may choose to wait till you see your doctor and prescribe antibiotic.

4 Anti itching and pain killers as often as needed

5 Try to keep the areas dry by wearing loose clothing and undergarments. it will help.

I believe that you will be alright soon and get your examination and investigations for long lasting recovery.

Best wishes

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Yogesh D

Follow up: Dr. VINAY KUMAR (37 hours later)

I went to see my OB/GYN and she said it could be herpes. She took a swab and drew blood. Now I have to wait 10 days for the results. I know it's difficult to offer a diagnoses without seeing a patient, and I know you have already given me your opinion, but is there anything else you think it could be? I'm now in a state of worry as I wait to hear back from the lab.

Answered by Dr. VINAY KUMAR (10 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Few more suggestions

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Welcome back!

I understand your concerns.

Anyone in this situation would feel stressed.
Though I have already stated that to me the problems seem manageable with the strategy outlined above and I think that you are on the right track. There is no harm in getting tested.

Please follow the undermentioned measures as best as you can:

1 Wash the affected areas at least every six hourly.

2 Dry up after every wash and then apply the ointment or local preparations.

3 Have anti allergics and pain killers as per need

4 Take some multi-vitamins

5 I do not foresee any problem on your path to recovery.

Hope you get well soon.
Best wishes again.

Note: Consult a Sexual Diseases Specialist online for further follow up- Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj