I was coming here to post an incredibly similar post. I contracted hsv-1 when I was 18 from my high school boyfriend (also a coldsore) and had a terrible initial outbreak to follow. My lymph nodes were so swollen I couldn't wear jeans for the way they pressed. My next outbreak was accompanied by a head cold and rash that I was convinced was shingles, but no doctor would diagnose, and that was when I was 22. I'm now 26 and have had no outbreaks that I am aware of. It has been so long, however, that I am CONVINCED that every tingle or itch is an outbreak or shedding. I don't even know what I should truly be looking for because of never having a mild outbreak (that I know of). But herpes will mess with your head like that.
Every partner told has wanted to be with me anyway. None of them knew a thing about it beside the obvious stigma attached, but saw past it once I laid down facts. I have never transmitted to any partners.
Somebody tell us what to look for in our outbreaks lol
I hope I was helpful, lilyluv.