What Is The Treatment For Oral Herpes
Possibly more commonly known to the majority of us as cold sores or fever blisters, oral herpes is primarily caused by HSV-1 . This type of herpes is typically spread through direct skin contact with someone who has the virus. In fact, according to Mayo Clinic, many people contract HSV-1 as babies if they have been kissed by a family member who had a cold sore.
Though oral herpes usually clears up on its own within a number of days, there are some things you can consider that will help relieve any irritation or pain:
- Cream to ease pain and irritation
- Antiviral cream to speed up healing time
- Cold sore patches
You May Like: What To Do When You Think You Have Herpes
What Happens During An Outbreak
Genital herpes is an infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. You catch it by having intimate contact with someone who has the virus.
In between episodes, most people dont know they have been infected by it. The virus remains in your nervous system and can be reactivated from time to time to give you symptoms. Outbreaks can occur in the genital area if the first infection was in the genitals. They cause crops of small painful blisters in the genital area and back passage . Herpes can also cause recurrent cold sores if the primary infection was around the mouth.
No one knows why outbreaks occur, although sunlight, physical illness, excess alcohol, and stress are all thought to be trigger factors. They often do become less frequent over time.
Recurrent episodes of genital herpes generally dont last as long as the first outbreak. They are sometimes preceded by itching or tingling in the genital area. Recurrent outbreaks usually last about 7-10 days, shorter than the primary infection which can last up to two weeks. They are also often milder than a primary infection but as R35506 found, the shallow ulcers left when the blisters break can still be quite painful.
Ways To Avoid Getting Herpes While Pregnant
Women who don’t have genital herpes should be careful about sex during the third trimester. Unless you know for sure that your partner is herpes free, avoid sex altogether during the third trimester. If your partner gets cold sores , they should not perform oral sex on you during this time.
Some doctors think all women should be tested for herpes when they get pregnant, especially if their sex partners have herpes. Ask your doctor if you or your partner should be tested.
Also Check: Herpes Test Planned Parenthood Cost
Four Home Remedies For Genital Warts
As genital warts can return even after surgical removal, home remedies are most likely to be effective when used alongside standard medical treatments.
It is important to note that the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate alternative medicines. Anyone interested in these remedies should discuss them with a doctor first and always buy them from a reliable source.
The following home remedies may speed the healing of genital warts, but they will not cure the underlying virus.
It Will Still Take A Long Time Before These Experiments Lead To The First Human Trials Of Gene Therapy To Cure Herpes Jerome Estimates That Will Be At Least Three Years Away
The team attained its first promising results years ago using a single type of meganuclease that proved effective in cutting the herpes virus DNA, but the results were short-lived. The virus could rely on the infected cellsâ own DNA-repair programs â which donât distinguish between viral genes from their own â to fix the break most of the time.
But over time, the researchers found that they could eliminate up to 90% of the latent virus by using a mix of two or three different meganucleases. It is simply harder to repair two breaks than one. With more tinkering, the results continued to improve.
You May Like: Medicine For Herpes Type 1
Why Genital Herpes Comes Back
Genital herpes is caused by a virus called herpes simplex. Once you have the virus, it stays in your body.
It will not spread in your body to cause blisters elsewhere. It stays in a nearby nerve and causes blisters in the same area.
If you can, avoid things that trigger your symptoms.
Triggers can include:
- surgery on your genital area
- a weakened immune system for example, from having chemotherapy for cancer
Preventing The Spread Of Herpes
Even when you do not have sores, you can pass the virus to someone during sexual or other close contact. To protect others:
- Let any sexual partner know that you have herpes before having sex. Allow them to decide what to do.
- Use latex or polyurethane condoms, and avoid sex during symptomatic outbreaks.
- Do not kiss or have oral sex when you have a sore on the lips or inside the mouth.
- Do not share your towels, toothbrush, or lipstick. Make sure dishes and utensils you use are washed well with detergent before others use them.
- Wash your hands well with soap and water after touching a sore.
- Consider using daily antiviral medicine to limit viral shedding and reduce the risk of passing the virus to your partner.
- You may also want to consider getting your partner tested even if they have never had an outbreak. If you both have the herpes virus, there is no risk for transmission.
Donât Miss: How To Reduce Herpes Outbreaks
Don’t Miss: Ways To Treat Genital Herpes
How Do You Get Rid Of A Cold Sore Fast
Much as sufferers would love one, there is no miracle cure for cold sores. Without treatment, a cold sore will disappear in roughly 7-10 days, says Dr Mahto. However, there are a few things you can try to help speed along this process. You can use an over-the-counter antiviral cream. If youre getting cold sores frequently, visit your GP to see if you can get antiviral prescription tablets, she advises. Alternatively, look into laser treatment or supplements both of which boast some success for people with recurrent cold sores.
What Is Acyclovir Topical
Acyclovir topical is an antiviral medicine that is used to treat skin symptoms caused by the herpes virus.
Acyclovir topical cream is used to treat cold sores on the lips and face.
Acyclovir topical ointment is used to treat genital herpes lesions.
There is no cure for herpes and acyclovir will not prevent you from developing symptoms in the future.
Acyclovir topical may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
Recommended Reading: How To Prevent Herpes Breakout
Read Also: Can You Get Herpes Results The Same Day
Verruca Vulgaris And Condyloma Accuminata
Podophyllin, used to treat condyloma acuminata, is extracted from the root of the American mayapple . It should not be used during pregnancy and is Class 2b externally and toxic internally . Commission E approves bittersweet nightshade , Classes 2b and 2c, and oat straw , Class 1, for the treatment of common warts . Calotropis is used in India, and greater celandine , Classes 2b, 2c, and 2d , is used in China for the treatment of warts . Bittersweet nightshade and celandine should also be avoided in pregnancy and while breast-feeding .
Dab On Some Zinc Oxide Skin Cream For Relief
Yes, the same thick white cream that lifeguards put on their noses and you put on a babys diaper rash can be an effective home remedy for cold sores. Apply some every day to speed recovery and relieve the aggravation of the infection. Gels or creams that contain lidocaine are also helpful in reducing your overall discomfort by slightly numbing the area.
Read Also: Can You Donate Eggs If You Have Herpes
Rule #: Dont Touch It
Touching the sores can increase the chance that you spread the virus to other parts of your body or to other people. Make sure to wash your hands frequently. Also, you can use a cotton swab or a finger cot to apply cream or ointment to the affected area instead of your fingers to avoid spreading the virus to other regions .
Dont Miss: How To Clear Genital Herpes
Antiviral Action Of Lemon Balm For Herpes
An in vitro study conducted at Sapienza University, Rome, Italy , compared the antiviral activity of lemon balm’s hydroalcoholic extract in active HSV-2 cells with an antiviral drug commonly used to treat herpes infections. Lemon balm showed to reduce cell degeneration caused by HSV-2 with a maximum inhibiting effect of 60%, therefore supporting its use for treating herpes lesions.
Another study, conducted at the University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany , analyzed the antiviral activity of three of lemon balm‘s phenolic compounds against herpes in vitro. Lemon balm was capable of neutralizing and destroying the virus even at very low concentrations.
Read Also: I Was Exposed To Herpes
Stages Of A Cold Sore
Cold sores typically go through five stages:
Genital Herpes Treatment During Pregnancy
Women taking antiviral drugs for herpes — either daily suppressive therapy or occasional therapy for outbreaks — should consult their doctor about whether to take the drugs during pregnancy. The answer is not set in stone: You and your doctor have to discuss the risks and benefits to decide what’s right for you.
For pregnant women with a history of genital herpes, the doctor might recommend daily doses of an antiviral medication during the month before their due date.
Herpes infection in a newborn is also serious. Do not allow anyone with a cold sore on the mouth to kiss the baby. If you have a cold sore, don’t kiss the baby, and wash hands with soap and water before touching the baby.
Read Also: Herpes In The Beginning Stages
How To Shave To Avoid A Razor Burn
You shouldnt shave the affected area again until your symptoms have cleared.
Once the area has healed, there are a number of steps you can take to make sure you dont experience another episode of razor burn.
To get a razor burn-free shave:
Youll also want to rinse and replace your razor regularly. This will help prevent the blades from getting dull and irritating your skin when you shave.
Notes On Using Witch Hazel
Witch Hazel products with an alcohol base may cause a stinging sensation when the treatment is initially applied. To avoid the stinging sensation, there are witch hazel products on the market that are alcohol-free.
Another way to apply astringent is to use medicated witch hazel pads, usually used for hemorrhoids. These make it easy to apply the product.
Recommended Reading: How To Get Rid Of Herpes In One Day
Myth #: Your Sex Life Is Over
While theres no cure, herpes treatment is simple and can shorten or prevent outbreaks, so you can still have a love life.
People have a disproportionate fear of herpes in relation to any other STI, Grimes says. They feel like their sex lives are ruined forever and thats in no way the case.
If you have the virus, your doctor may prescribe a medication like Zovirax or Valtrex to keep on hand in case of a flare-up. And if you experience outbreaks often, your provider may recommend daily dosing. However you treat it, its worth remembering that herpes is a condition to manage it doesnt define you.
If you have to be perfect for your new partner, that partner will be looking a very, very long time to find a match! Grimes says. Everyone has something, and since one in six Americans between 14-49 have HSV-2, odds are very high that your next partner is in the same boat. The main issue is to have productive conversations around these issues.
So theres no reason for all the stigma and secrecy surrounding herpes, since its safe to assume more people have it than you think. And if youre diagnosed with the virus, your provider will help you find a treatment plan thats easy, effective, and fit for your lifestyle.
Read Also: Can Oral Herpes Cause Genital Herpes
How Lengthy Do Herpes Sores Final
In some circumstances, it could take 2 3 weeks to heal fully. Subsequent outbreaks are normally much less extreme and move inside a couple of days. Herpes sores usually develop within the following phases: tingling or itching sensation within the affected space this normally occurs within the first 12 24 hours.
Read Also: What Is Type One Herpes
Dos And Donts For Herpes Outbreaks
Before going into the treatment options for herpes, its important to note a few important dos and donts to keep in mind when an outbreak occurs.
Things you should or should not do when you have an oral herpes outbreak include:
- Do wash your hands after any time you touch a sore.
- Do get rid of your toothbrush and start using a new one.
- Do protect your lips with lip balm.
- Do take steps to reduce stress, which can worsen outbreaks.
- Dont share cups, utensils, towels, or lip balms.
- Dont kiss while a sore is present.
- Dont try to pop or drain cold sores.
Things you should or should not do when you have a genital herpes outbreak include:
- Do wash your hands after any time you touch a sore.
- Do take steps to reduce stress, which can worsen outbreaks.
- Do wear cotton underwear and loose clothing.
- Do keep your genital area clean and dry except when showering.
- Dont take baths or use hot tubs.
- Dont have sex since the virus has a higher risk of transmission.
- Dont try to pop or drain genital sores.
Does Witch Hazel Work For Herpes
Theres not enough evidence to prove that witch hazel works for cold sores or other herpes blisters. However, witch hazel is generally safe for the topical treatment of minor skin issues.
These days, a number of genital herpes treatments are on the market. The only proven medications for herpes outbreaks are antivirals like valocyclovir and acyclovir.
As far as natural remedies go, some ingredients have more studies to back them up than witch hazel. To read more about them, and the studies behind them, be sure to read our pages on Topical Herpes Treatments and Oral Supplements for Herpes.
Any treatment should be done at the first sign of an outbreak for the best chances of success.
Don’t Miss: How To Get Checked For Herpes
Herpes Cream Provides Natural Relief
Lelia Cahill, founder of Royal John, is pleased to offer natural relief for those that suffer from genital herpes. Royal Johns Genital Herpes Cream is comprised of all-natural ingredients including echinacea, lady slipper, purslane, golden seal, lemon balm, witch hazel, licorice, tea tree and black cumin.
Thirty-five percent of American adults have genital herpes, says Cahill. While there is not currently a cure, it is important to find comfort and relief from symptoms naturally with a product you can trust.
The plant-based, antioxidant-rich formula is designed to soothe sores and temporarily relieve pain and swelling due to genital herpes. This cream-based formula is chemical-free and easy to use for management of bothersome symptoms.
Cahill brings more than 28 years of expertise in development and research. She has worked with the National Development and Research Institute as well as many brilliant doctors.
Statistically speaking everyone knows someone who has herpes, but not many people talk about it, a big reason is the stigma it carries. Its a normal, non-life-threatening part of a lot of peoples lives. My hope is to remove the stigma of genital herpes and give relief to the symptoms until we find a cure, says Cahill.
For more information or to order, visit RoyalJohn.com or email Also available on Amazon. See ad, page 33.
What Is Genital Herpes
Genital herpes is a common infection caused by the herpes simplex virus . It causes painful blisters on the genitals and the surrounding areas.
As genital herpes can be passed to others through intimate sexual contact, it is often referred to as a sexually transmitted infection .
HSV can affect any mucous membrane , such as those found in the mouth .
Genital herpes is a chronic condition. The virus remains in your body and can become active again. The average rate of recurrence is four to five times in the first two years after being infected. However, over time, it becomes active less frequently and each outbreak becomes less severe.
You May Like: How To Stop Genital Herpes
Don’t Miss: Western Blot Herpes Test Cost
What Are The First Signs Of Herpes 1
Symptoms
- Pain or itching. You may experience pain and tenderness in your genital area until the infection clears.
- Small red bumps or tiny white blisters. These may appear a few days to a few weeks after infection.
- Ulcers. These may form when blisters rupture and ooze or bleed.
What are the stages of a genital herpes outbreak?
Herpes sores typically develop in the following stages:
tingling or itching sensation in the affected area this usually happens in the first 12 24 hours. blisters form and fill with liquid. blisters open and turn into sores. ulcers turn into scabs and heal.
Can shaving trigger herpes outbreak? Instead, theyre triggered by your hair growing back after waxing or shaving. If you experience herpes outbreaks, they may occur on a fairly regular basis. People with HSV-1 typically have one to two outbreaks per year, while people infected with HSV-2 can experience more frequent outbreaks.
Does herpes make your VAG smell? Herpes vaginal discharge
Its most common to have discharge when youre having other symptoms like sores. This liquid also tends to happen along with a strong smell that many people with herpes describe as fishy. This smell usually gets stronger or more pungent after having sex.
Recommended Reading: Why Do I Keep Getting Genital Herpes Outbreaks