Herpes can be suspected when there are small, painful blisters or sores around the mouth, genitals, anus, or nearby skin, especially if there is itching, burning, or discomfort before they appear. In some cases, the first outbreak can also come with feeling unwell, such as a low fever, body aches, or swollen glands.
Herpes symptoms are not always easy to recognize, because these sores can look like other skin problems and some people may have very mild signs or no obvious symptoms at all. When symptoms do happen, later flare-ups are usually milder than the first one and tend to heal faster.
The most reliable way to know if it is herpes is to have the area examined by a doctor and tested. If there are visible sores, the doctor may collect a sample from the area. In some situations, a blood test may also help confirm infection.
Anyone who thinks they may have herpes should avoid self-medicating and avoid sexual contact or direct contact with sores until a doctor has evaluated the symptoms. The most appropriate professionals are usually a primary care doctor, gynecologist, urologist, dermatologist, or sexual health specialist.