How Long Do Symptoms Of Herpes Take To Show Up?

Posted on Mon, 15 Jun 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 15 Jun 2015 Answered on

Mon, 6 Jul 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello, I have had a sore throat for 14 days. This started the day after a very questionable sexual encounter. I have been reading about oral herpes and that it can start with a sore throat. How long before other symptoms would appear after the sore throat started? From what I have read the cold sores can take up to 3 weeks but it seems like once other symptoms start I would of had more symptoms by now if it was herpes?

Answered by Dr. Rajkishori Godhi (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
herpes not likely

Detailed Answer:
Hi and welcome to healthcaremagic,

From your symptoms it is very unlikely that you have herpes.

In herpes, Sore throat may be an initial symptom but in a couple of days it is followed by the appearance of oral ulcers. In your case you have been having only sore throat for 14 days with no ulcers, hence herpes is unlikely.

Please continue to take the antibiotics.

For the sore throat you should follow some general measures like-
1) Warm salt water gargling 4 times daily.
2) plenty of fluids.
3) avoid air conditioning and cold foods.

Feel free to follow up,
Regards,
Dr Rajkishori Godhi MS ENT

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj