When do genital herpes symptoms appear in men? Symptoms usually appear suddenly two days to two weeks after exposure to herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 2 or type 1 (less often). After treatment of the initial attack (at the onset of symptoms), a subsequent attack may occur in the following year and periodically for the rest of the patient’s life. How can genital herpes be confirmed? Herpes simplex does not always cause symptoms, so it is best to consult a specialist. The condition can be diagnosed based on the clinical picture. A sample of bladder discharge (watery fluid) may also be taken to be tested or a blood test may be ordered. The patient must answer some questions about his sexual contacts. It is very important that he be honest in his answers. This would help determine if the patient should also be tested for other STDs. How is genital herpes treated? It should not be forgotten that there is no main treatment for genital herpes. However, antiviral drugs can help prevent the virus from multiplying and reduce the number of attacks a patient has. It can also reduce the risk of passing the virus on to other people. Common antiviral medications that are used for genital herpes include: Acyclovir; Famciclovir; Valacyclovir For some people, taking medication at the first sign of an attack is enough, but if the patient has frequent attacks, they may need to take medication every day. To relieve pain and itching, the patient should keep their genitals as clean and dry as possible during an attack. An ice pack may also be applied several times a day. Genital herpes is a relatively common sexually transmitted disease. It does not always cause symptoms, so if infection is suspected, it is best to get the patient tested as soon as possible to avoid accidentally transmitting the virus to another person. Despite treatment with antiviral drugs, it is important to know that it is still possible to transmit the virus to other people, even in the absence of an attack of the disease. Therefore, the use of protective equipment during sexual contact should not be forgotten. Bibliography: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Genital herpes: CDC Fact Sheet Iowa Department of Public Health (IDPH). Genital herpes