Question:
The first outbreak:

Symptoms usually develop within 2 to 20 days after first exposure to the virus
Could continue for up to 2 weeks
After symptoms develop--they could last up to 2 weeks????

May be so mild that it goes unnoticed
Sometimes causes visible sores
Can last between 10 - 21 days So the sores can last an additional 10-21 days after symptoms of outbreak?????

I have not been diagnosed yet.. but I am pretty sure that I have it. I've had a burning sensation, redness, areas that appear raw, and some discharge for about 3 weeks. So could these "raw spots" still turn in to sores?

My doctor went ahead and gave me some samples of Valtrex.. but I am scared to take them because of all the side effects...

Please share your thoughts.. knowledge....

Answer:
I wouldn't get too caught up in the statistics, because they are just that--averages of a very complex and unique virus. My ob lasted maybe 10 days total, from prodrome to complete healing. I was having sex again in 2 weeks with no pain. I took Valtrex and NEVER had any problems other than maybe some nausea (although I'm still having nausea and I'm not on it anymore....I'll post that question tomorrow).

Mine never did progress beyond looking like a small (smaller than a dime) area of swelling and redness. Hubby said it looked like "road rash". Just raw patches--hurt like a mf. I did have all the other flu symptoms, though, so felt crappy nonetheless. Most of the stories I've read said that 1st ob's are usually the worst, and then diminish over time. Hopefully, during these three weeks, your body has started creating an arsenal against the little virus and will kick it into remission (for lack of a better term).

I don't know what to say about the Valtrex this ob. My doc said it is ONLY effective if started within the first 72 hours of symptoms beginning. You might want to ask your doc what he/she thinks. If not, keep it around so you can start it IMMEDIATELY if you notice another ob once you're sure this one has resolved completely. I'm sorry you're struggling. I wish you the best and a quick recovery!

Answer:
Thanks Susan for your reply.

I just don't know if this is "real ob" or not. It feels raw on both sides and it burns and feels very hot...

I just don't know if it is too late to take the Valtrex , or if I should just go ahead and try to see if gives me some relief.. B-cuz something is obviously going on.. and has been for about 3 weeks.

Answer:
Did they swab you to see if its yeast?? Call the doc, if in doubt and ask if you should be on the meds right now. Hope you're better soon!

Answer:
Hey Susan,
Yes, they did a swab and it was not yeast.. I wish it was yeast.. LOL!

I do need to call them again....

I am just really worried now cause I read that the herpes virus can live in clothing and wash clothes and won't be killed unless you use it with soap AND bleach. I have not washed my dark clothes with bleach and I've washed them with some of my family's clothes. Does that mean I could have spread the virus to their clothing????

Answer:
cluelesswendy - don't believe everything you read. It's easy to get confused. My rule is if I see a reputable source print it I'll consider it. If I see more than one reputable source print it - I'll listen.

Towels and washcloths shouldn't be reused if they came into contact with an active ob. They are fine to be laundered in warm or hot water. You are not going to infect your families clothing by washing stuff together.

Don't wear your panties twice that's just yucky.

You can use normal hygiene practices for washing your hands with warm/hot soap and water. It should be for 30 seconds.