Enlarged Lymph Nodes: A Common Symptom of Herpes Outbreaks
When experiencing a herpes outbreak, it is not uncommon for the nearby lymph nodes to become enlarged. In the case of genital herpes, the lymph nodes on both sides of the groin may be affected, while oral herpes tends to cause inflammation in the neck or ear lymph nodes. As the herpes outbreak begins to subside, the enlargement of the lymph nodes should gradually decrease. However, it is important to note that the tenderness accompanying the swelling can contribute to discomfort or pain, particularly for individuals with genital herpes.
Fever
When individuals experience herpes outbreaks, they often also experience flu-like symptoms, including a fever. This is because the herpes virus interferes with the immune system, causing a low-grade fever that may result in fatigue and a general feeling of being unwell. Fever is most commonly observed during the initial herpes outbreak and is less likely to occur with subsequent flare-ups. In some cases, body temperature may rise even before the appearance of sores, although most individuals experience this symptom after the outbreak begins. To alleviate the fever, physicians typically recommend over-the-counter medications. However, in rare cases, particularly among young children and individuals with weakened immune systems, a high-grade fever may develop and persist for a longer duration.