The doctor can identify genital herpes by observing the individual's genital and perianal area, analyzing the symptoms of the disease, and diagnostic confirmation can be made through a laboratory examination.
Symptoms of Genital Herpes
Symptoms of genital herpes include blisters or rounded pellets, very close to each other, containing a virus-rich, yellowish-colored liquid with redness around it, as you can see in the image:
By observing the affected area, it is possible to determine which region is most sensitive to pain and itching, and whether there is redness or blisters with fluid. In some cases, blistering may occur due to scratching, rubbing, or the wearing of very tight clothing, for example, which increases the chances of bacteria being present in the wounds, which may lead to appearance of secondary infections.
This virus can be easily transmitted, which usually happens when you come in contact or have an intimate relationship without a condom with a person who has blisters or liquid wounds. Learn more about avoiding catching genital herpes in How Genital Herpes Gets.
Diagnosis of genital herpes
For the diagnosis of genital herpes, the doctor may scrape the wound to store a small amount of fluid coming from inside. Through the microscope, one may or may not observe the presence of the herpes virus in the sample.
When the virus is identified, the diagnosis is closed, and the doctor should state which treatment is most appropriate. An antiviral like Aciclovir is usually prescribed and is oriented not to have intercourse while there is a wound, not even with a condom.
