Usually used as a general term, herpes is referred to as both oral herpes and genital herpes as the same, casually. Even though both these conditions have their similarities, they are the result of being infected with a different kind of herpes simplex virus. The virus in both cases enters the body through the epidermis, which is the top layer of the skin. This leads to the development of lesions, which can be described as areas of the body with concentration of tissue that has suffered the most damage during an illness. These lesions include wounds, ulcers, and tumors among others. In the case of herpes, these lesions exclusively include sores.

Type-1 herpes, or HSV-1, usually shows cold sores in almost a month after infection. In rare cases, HSV-1 can cause genital sores. Type 2 herpes, or HSV-2, usually causes only genital sores. Having a tendency to spread through skin-to-skin contact, these lesions can be controlled by antiviral therapy.

Symptoms
Even though taking into account the profound nature of the sores, some patients may not show symptoms at all. If symptoms are visible, both type-1 and type-2 herpes can show blistery sores, although both types have a different set of symptoms.

With lesions showing on the lips and inside the mouth, the early infection by HSV-1 can spread in larger areas. Usually occurring between one to 26 days from the day of infection, the symptoms of type-1 herpes are sores of the following types:

• Faintly raised
• Groups of small fluid-filled blisters
• Crusted blisters

Based on the location and intensity of the sores, they can cause discomfort in daily activities like eating, drinking, and talking, among many others. One may experience pain and itching on the location of the sore before it arrives, which gets easier but persists until the sore remains.

Though Type-2 herpes does not usually cause symptoms, it may cause pain in the groin. This pain can be even more excruciating during sexual activity.

Causes
HSV-1 is usually spread by direct contact, like kissing and other activities, making it hard to pinpoint the source of the infection. It is highly likely for all ages to be susceptible to catch the illness due to the way it is transmitted.

HSV-2 is transmitted purely through sexual means, making it more susceptible for people in sexual contact to be infected. Though it is common, people infected with HSV-2 are usually oblivious to it and to the fact that they are spreading it. Another way of transmission is through pregnancy, where mothers can be responsible for the child receiving the infection, causing dire consequences.

Prevention
In the case of oral herpes, it is imperative to refrain from skin-to-skin contact and sharing objects of use with someone already infected.

If one is a carrier of the virus, it is important to be aware of any intentional or unintentional contact, including leaving used clothes and towels around which can be touched.

To prevent the return of herpes once healed, take best possible efforts to have a healthy mind and body.

In case of type-2 herpes, one should practice safe sex with use of precautionary measures such as condoms along with discussing with one’s partner the chances of STDs.