Herpes vs Warts

Herpes vs. warts is a common confusion among those who suffer from either infection, as they are both sexually transmitted infections that affect the skin of a person. However, the virus involved in herpes and warts is distinctively different. Both require treatment, without which there can be long-term complications on the body.

While warts are caused by a virus called HPV (human papillomavirus), herpes is caused by HSV (herpes simplex virus). Continue reading to learn more about herpes vs. warts, their differences, and how to prevent them.

Herpes: the herpes virus has two stains- HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 mainly causes oral herpes and causes sores and blisters around the mouth. It can sometimes affect the genitals too. On the other hand, HSV-2 causes genital herpes and infects the genitals or anus. 

Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can cause itchy sores on the skin. When they develop in the mouth, they are called cold sores and don’t last for a very long time. The outbreaks get shorter and less painful over time, while some patients completely stop getting them.

During herpes outbreaks, you can expect to experience symptoms like severe itching, sore genitals, and burning while peeing. Herpes is not curable, but treatments and medications can control the intensity of the outbreaks. 

Warts: Warts on the skin look fleshy and pale. They usually do not cause other symptoms and are removable through surgical procedures. You can contract this infection through sexual activities with someone infected with HPV. 

Different HPV causes different symptoms, where most of them aren’t severe. But some warts can turn cancerous when ignored for a long time. Warts can appear on the vagina, penis, scrotum, vulva, cervix, and anus. 

Herpes vs. warts? Do you worry about having one of these infections? If yes, the ideal thing to do is get a STD test. Self-diagnosing isn’t always accurate and can lead to mishaps if you get the wrong medication. There are STD clinics and labs in more than 4500 locations in the country where you can get an STD test quickly and easily.

You can ask your doctor about herpes vs. warts if you want to know about their traits more. The thing about herpes vs. warts is that herpes doesn’t always cause symptoms while still being transmissible, and warts always show up on the skin as sores and bumps. 

Avoid sexual activity when you have visible symptoms of either of the infections. It is the only way you can prevent the spread of STDs.