Genital HSV-2 physical symptoms w/o visible

[bigrobot]

I'm going on information the internet has to offer, most of which I'm sure is inaccurate here. Also, I plan on getting a regular HSV2 test soon, but am concerned because I know there is a time window before infection will show up. With that said:

I had a sexual encounter about 2 weeks ago. No overt reason to suspect the person had herpes or any other STD.

There are no visible symptoms on my genitals. But starting about a week ago I began to experience a persistent "ache" in my left testicle...this continued, and then felt like it was a lymph node issue. Now it has expanded a bit, so that the left side of my lower abdomen also aches...almost as if there's a gas pocket. This has been going on on and off for about a week now.

Online one of the symptoms of herpes is a "full feeling" in the stomach, pain in the groin, etc. Would these kind of symptoms be symptomatic of HSV-2 or any other STD, noting the absence of any visible symptoms like sores, lesions, etc.??

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Testicular cancer usually presents with a nontender lump in the scrotum, not the vague sense of fullness and aching that robotdog describes.  As always, of course if his symptoms persist, he should see a health care provider for personal evaluation.  But there isn't the urgency that dermoproblems implies.

dermoproblems, you are welcome to contribute to the forum, but I insist on factual and sober commentary and advice.

[dermoproblems]

You should be concerned that you have testicular cancer before you go worrying about herpes! IF it turns out to be testicular cancer, it is better to get an early diagnosis.

In men aged 15 to 34, testicular cancer ranks as the most common cancer.

Please go (run) to a doctor with these symptoms...

[bigmonkeycar]

Noticed this thread--
Personally I've had bouts of tingling in one side of body, arm/leg/etc., but they continue on for upwards of a week...how long would herpes related tingling be for?

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Yes, your hypochondria is in clear evidence.  The worst possible thing someone with such issues can do is search the web for explanations of their symptoms.  Don't do it anymore.

Localized tingling, always on one side of the body never bilateral, sometimes precedes herpes outbreaks (prodrome).  Otherwise tingling is not a symptom of HSV infection.

I'm holding you to your statement.  This is your last question and my last response.

HHH, MD

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Herpes prodrome typically involves the area immediately where an outbreak is about to occur, e.g. genitals/groin, sometimes partly down that leg etc.  But that's all.  What you describe cannot be herpes.

[bigrobot]

Well quick follow-up and then no more Medhelp for me (or OTHER STD sites):

Tingling in the extremities? I've seen this as an HSV2 symptom before...

If you can't tell I'm a terrific hypochondriac who tends to have psychosomatic issues...but an answer to this question would help.

[H. Hunter Handsfield, M.D.]

Those symptoms do not suggest herpes at all, or any other STD.  I don't understand why herpes even is on your mind, given lack of suspicion your partner was infected, and do not recommend testing for HSV-2 unless you have stronger suspicion, such as known exposure to a known-infected person or symptoms that suggest you might have it.

This should have been a follow-up to your previous question.  Only a limited number of new questions can be expected every 24 hr, so unnecessary ones block others with new questions.  Also note med help rules, max 2 questions by any person in a 6 month period.

HHH, MD