When you're trying to understand what herpes blisters look like, it's helpful to know they're a common sign of a herpes simplex virus infection. These aren't just any little bumps; they're typically small, fluid-filled blisters that can appear in clusters.
Where do these blisters show up? Well, it depends on the type of herpes. For genital herpes, which is often caused by the herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), you might see these blisters around the genitals, rectum, thighs, or buttocks. In women, they can also develop on the cervix. It's worth noting that herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), the one more commonly associated with cold sores, can also cause genital herpes, especially through oral sex.
Oral herpes, usually caused by HSV-1, typically manifests as cold sores, often called fever blisters. These usually appear on the outside of the mouth, around the lips, but can sometimes occur inside the mouth on the roof of the mouth, tongue, or gums. Interestingly, while canker sores can look similar to mouth sores from herpes, they are different. Canker sores are always inside the mouth and aren't contagious, whereas herpes sores can be inside or outside the mouth and are caused by a virus that can spread.
What's the progression like? Initially, you might notice a tingling or itching sensation before the blisters actually form. Once they appear, they are often painful. Over time, these blisters will break open, forming shallow sores. Eventually, these sores will crust over and heal, usually without scarring. It's important to remember that herpes infections are lifelong, meaning the virus stays in your body even when you don't have active sores. Outbreaks can recur, but often become less frequent and less severe over time.
It's also a common misconception that you'll always see visible sores when herpes is active. Many people have herpes and don't even know it because their symptoms are so mild, or they have no symptoms at all. The virus can be shed from the skin even when there are no visible blisters, which is how it can be transmitted. So, while understanding what herpes blisters look like is key, it's also important to be aware that transmission can occur without obvious signs.