Red flags & when to go in person for Genital Herpes (HSV)

Audience: adult

Genital herpes (HSV) is a common viral infection that causes sores or blisters in the genital area. Many people manage symptoms at home or with telemedicine support. However, some signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person promptly. These include severe pain, widespread sores, difficulty urinating, or signs of infection like fever and swelling. Telemedicine can help with initial advice, symptom management, and medication guidance, but it cannot replace in-person exams when complications arise. Knowing when to seek urgent care helps prevent problems and ensures proper treatment. This guide explains red flags, what telemedicine can and cannot do, and how to prepare for a tele-visit about genital herpes.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe pain or large, spreading sores requiring urgent evaluation
• Difficulty or inability to urinate needing immediate care
• High fever or chills suggesting systemic infection

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom assessment
• Advice on mild outbreak management
• Prescribing antiviral medications when appropriate
• Education on prevention and self-care

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination for severe or complicated cases
• Management of urinary retention
• Treatment of severe infections or systemic symptoms
• Emergency care for acute complications

What is Genital Herpes (HSV)?

Genital herpes is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It often causes painful blisters or sores in the genital or anal area. The virus stays in the body and can cause repeated outbreaks. Many people have mild symptoms or none at all.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms often include painful blisters, itching, burning, or tingling around the genitals. Some people also experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches, or swollen glands during the first outbreak.

Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Care

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:

These signs may indicate complications that require hands-on examination and treatment.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine can provide:

It is a convenient option for many but has limits.

Limitations of Telemedicine for Genital Herpes

Telemedicine cannot:

In these situations, in-person evaluation is necessary.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

Before your tele-visit:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your symptoms and when they began
• List all current medications and allergies
• Find a private, quiet place for your tele-visit
• Have your medical history ready, including immune status and pregnancy
• Be prepared to describe symptoms clearly and answer questions

After your tele-visit

• Follow medication instructions carefully
• Monitor symptoms and note any changes
• Maintain good hygiene to prevent spread
• Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks
• Schedule follow-up if symptoms worsen or do not improve

FAQs

Can genital herpes be cured?

There is currently no cure for genital herpes. The virus stays in the body and may cause repeated outbreaks. However, antiviral medications can help reduce symptoms and the frequency of outbreaks.

Is genital herpes contagious during symptom-free periods?

Yes, genital herpes can be spread even when there are no visible sores or symptoms, through a process called viral shedding. Using protection and avoiding contact during outbreaks helps reduce risk.

When should I see a doctor in person for genital herpes?

See a healthcare provider in person if you have severe pain, widespread sores, difficulty urinating, high fever, or signs of infection. These may require urgent care beyond telemedicine.

Can I get antiviral medication through telemedicine?

Often, yes. Telemedicine providers can assess your symptoms and prescribe antiviral medications if appropriate. However, severe or complicated cases may need in-person evaluation.

How can I prevent spreading genital herpes to others?

Avoid sexual contact during outbreaks, use condoms consistently, and inform sexual partners about your condition. Good hygiene and medication adherence also help reduce transmission risk.

Sources

1. Genital Herpes — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine / NIH.
2. Genital Herpes - CDC Fact Sheet — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Herpes Simplex Virus Infections — Mayo Clinic.
4. Herpes Simplex Virus — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or concerns, seek prompt evaluation from a healthcare provider in person.