If you have recurrent genital herpes outbreaks, then you are probably familiar with the symptoms that you get right before a visible outbreak.
The symptoms may vary but many describe them as shooting pains through the legs, tingling sensations in the genitals, localized swollen glands and backaches.
Collectively these symptoms are referred to as "prodrome" and is a sign of reactivation of the herpes virus.
Prodrome is usually an indication that sores or skin lesions are coming, however this is not always the case.
Unfortunately, doctors have yet to determine the exact cause to recurrent herpes outbreaks - however there are a few triggers that are known.
Excessive exposure to ultraviolet light has been known to trigger outbreaks in herpes type 1, so while it is unlikely that your genitals will be exposed to UV light (sunburn), it's important to keep this in mind when you're tanning or sunbathing.
Friction and heavy rubbing to the genital area can also activate the herpes virus.
Believe it or not, the food you eat can also bring the virus out of hiding.
Sugars, chocolate and caffeine should be avoided as much as possible.
The best way to control your herpes outbreaks is to track your prodrome symptoms.
Keep a journal of the things that you experience before each outbreak until you notice a pattern.
Once you have established a reliable prodrome pattern, start taking your herpes medication at the onset.
This will help you avoid a full outbreak with skin lesions.
Medical reports indicate that virtually all who suffer from herpes type 2 will experience a reactivation of the virus.
This reactivation is more popularly referred to as "outbreaks".
The average person will experience an average of four outbreaks per year, with that number gradually decreasing over time.
It's always best to seek the counsel of a trained medical expert.
You should not self-diagnose.