Duration of HSV-2 lesions

[MC4444]

I was recently intimate with a partner who tested positive for HSV-2 (serotological test). We had had sex a few times before the diagnosis came in three days ago. The diagnosis came as quite a shock to us both, since he never noticed any prodromal symptoms. Upon hindsight, what he may have identified as absolutely painless shaving bumps could have been herpetic lesions.

My question first question is this: can HSV-2 lesions occur and heal completely in 3-4 days?

He had two small blister-like bumps that were somewhat orangey-yellow in his pubic hair (day 1) that burst during sex. There was no visible ulcer, only reddish, slightly raised skin which lasted one day (day 2). On the following day, he had very subtle pink marks where the lesions had been (day 3). By the next morning, there was absolutely no evidence of anything but healthy skin (day 4). Does this sound like a herpes outbreak?

My second question is this: can herpetic lesions be absolutely painless?

Finally, about 4-5 days after we were intimate with a potential lesion present, I experienced a headache that lasted a full day, then very painful neck muscle aches for two days after, all together lasting 3 days. I recognize that these could be initial outbreak prodromal symptoms (I tested negative for HSV1 and 2 before we began any intimate contact). There was no tingling, burning, or itching. I've not noticed any lesions anywhere on my genitals, anus, thighs, or buttocks since the headache and neckache.
Is it possible that my headache and neck aches are prodromal symptoms? Can I have contracted HSV-2 and not show any visible lesions? (I recognize that they could be inside my vaginal canal, but given that his lesion was not on his penis but in his pubic hair, I'm uncertain about where my lesions could present themselves).

I know this is a big post with a number of questions, so I do very much appreciate the energy and effort it takes to respond.

[MC4444]

Hi Grace,

Thanks again for the comments. I don't think I'll be able to get the exact Igg results from him. My apologies.

My throat is still sore, localized to one side, but I'm not seeing much when I take a look in the mirror.

Can the headache and severe neck ache be prodromal symptoms even if there was no tingling, burning, or itching? I have been reading quite a lot about HSV and am finding different information.

Can recurrent outbreaks heal within 72 hours?

Thanks again for your thoughts

[gracefromHHP]

it's best for him to get the results so we can confirm proper testing was done.  talk to him about it and encourage him to get them.

your oral symptoms do not sound like oral herpes at all.  

grace

[MC4444]

Hi Grace,

I appreciate your reply.

I don't know the exact numbers, but Planned Parenthood called to confirm that he was HSV-2+.

I have had a slightly sore throat for the past few days (started about a day after the headache/ extremely sore back of neck), localized to one side of my throat. I've taken a look and see a very small white dot, but it looks relatively similar to the white tone of my throat on the opposite, non-painful, side. While I have found no lesions whatsoever in my genital region, I did perform oral sex and wonder if I've contracted HSV-2 in my throat.

Do HSV-2 lesions, especially on a first ob, ever occur *only* in the throat? I know HSV-1 primary ob often occur on lips and throat.  The pain in my throat is very minor, though still noticeable.

I'm also curious about how long mild HSV-2 genital lesions last. Can they occur and heal entirely within 3-4 days in recurrent obs?

I am seeing my doctor three days from now. I hope that the little white dot in the back of my throat remains to be cultured. I will have a blood test done in 12 weeks to confirm my HSV status. Thanks for the suggestions.

[gracefromHHP]

I will gladly take a look at your partner's herpes blood testing if he can get the results to share with you. all you need to post are the actual numeric results - e.g. hsv1 igg  8.9 and hsv2 igg 3.4 or whatever they are. that way we can be sure he was properly tested and see if he needs additional confirmatory testing done.

should you develop any obvious symptoms in the genital area in the next week or two, be seen promptly for a lesion culture and typing as well as treatment. since you tested negative for herpes before this, you should have very obvious symptoms that you won't miss.

grace