Herpes simplex (cold sore) or oral herpes is a condition caused by a virus and is so common that you don't have to be ashamed if you have it. If you have herpes (usually type 1), you probably already know that this virus can cause herpes simplex. Herpes simplex usually appears on the lips, but can also affect the cheeks, chin, or nostrils. These outbreaks recur frequently and are highly contagious. Fortunately, you can take several steps to relieve the symptoms and reduce the chances of herpes simplex appearing in the future. Although there is currently no cure, some of the methods in this article can be useful to help relieve pain and speed healing.
Step
Method 1 of 11: Consult a doctor about taking an oral antiviral
Step 1. Drugs that fall into this category include Penciclovir, Famciclovir, and Acyclovir
Although it can't get rid of the virus, it can speed up healing! Antivirals will also ease the severity of herpes simplex. When taking this medicine, always follow the instructions on the package and take this medicine immediately if you have signs of herpes simplex. If you often suffer from this condition, your doctor may suggest taking an antiviral every day. In this way, you can suppress the appearance of herpes simplex in the future.
- If you have a compromised immune system, or herpes simplex doesn't go away for more than two weeks, your doctor may prescribe additional medication. Some outbreaks can be quite severe and require additional medical treatment.
- Herpes infection in the eye can be dangerous. If the infection spreads to the eye, go to the doctor immediately for the necessary treatment.
- People who have weak immune systems are at risk for long-term complications due to herpes outbreaks. This complication can be herpes meningoencephalitis, which is a condition when the herpes virus spreads to the brain.
Method 2 of 11: Try using a topical antiviral cream
Step 1. A herpes simplex ointment such as docosanol (Abreva) can provide immediate pain relief
This ointment can also relieve the symptoms so that the outbreak does not last for a long time. To use the medicine safely, wash your hands or wear gloves. Gently apply the ointment on herpes simplex. After that, wash your hands so the infection doesn't spread. You can use this cream up to 6 times a day. Wait up to 3 hours before reapplying, and do the treatment for seven days.
Creams containing lidocaine, acyclovir, and benzocaine can speed up pain relief
Method 3 of 11: Use a lysine supplement or cream
Step 1. Lysine is an amino acid that can reduce the length of the outbreak
Although more evidence is needed, some studies suggest that lysine will interfere with the absorption of the amino acid arginine in the intestine. The herpes virus requires arginine to reproduce, so lysine is quite effective at reducing outbreaks. Take lysine in supplement form or apply lysine cream directly on herpes simplex. Both can be obtained at pharmacies without a doctor's prescription.
- Only take lysine supplements if herpes simplex occurs. Long-term use can cause side effects (eg kidney problems).
- Follow the dosage instructions on the package. Excessive consumption of lysine can cause diarrhea and abdominal pain.
Method 4 of 11: Use rhubarb and sage cream
Step 1. Rhubarb and sage creams are as effective as over-the-counter ointments
A study published by the National Library of Medicine found that sage and rhubarb cream can minimize and shorten herpes simplex outbreaks as well as acyclovir cream (Zovirax). You can buy this cream in online stores (internet) without a doctor's prescription.
You can also buy them at drugstores or pharmacies
Method 5 of 11: Try using propolis (synthetic beeswax)
Step 1. Use 3% propolis ointment to reduce herpes simplex symptoms and shorten the outbreak time
Propolis (which is made from poplar tree buds) is a substance commonly found in bee hives. For best results, apply this ointment on herpes simplex 5 times a day.
Method 6 of 11: Use medication to relieve pain and fever
Step 1. You can reduce the symptoms with over-the-counter pain relievers
Herpes simplex can sometimes be very painful. Try to treat it by taking aspirin acetaminophen (Tylenol), or ibuprofen (Advil) to relieve pain and inflammation. Herpes simplex is sometimes accompanied by fever. Fortunately, acetaminophen can also work as a fever reducer. Follow the instructions on the packaging and take the medicine according to the instructions given (choose one drug and do not combine the two, except as directed by your doctor).
- Check body temperature regularly to monitor fever. Consult a doctor if the fever persists for more than a few days or if the body temperature continues to rise.
- Additional ways that can be done to deal with fever include: taking a warm bath, applying cold compresses to the inner thighs, arms, legs, and neck, drinking hot tea or popsicles, and getting plenty of sleep.
- Do not give aspirin to children because of the risk of causing Reye's syndrome.
Method 7 of 11: Apply a cold compress on the painful area
Step 1. Ice can relieve pain and inflammation
Place an ice pack (ice bag of frozen gel), a cold compress, or a cold cloth on the herpes simplex for about 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Do this several times a day to reduce discomfort. Be sure to provide a barrier between the skin and the ice, such as a cloth or tissue. This must be done because the ice is too strong for herpes simplex.
If using a washcloth, don't forget to wash it immediately after use. Use a new, clean cloth every time you apply a cold compress to herpes simplex
Method 8 of 11: Keep your mouth and lips moist
Step 1. Use lip balm or lip balm to prevent herpes simplex from drying out
When herpes simplex begins to heal, the sores may break, peel, and bleed. This can be very painful. Apply petrolatum (Aquaphor or Vaseline) to your mouth and lips to moisturize the area. Don't forget to wash your hands before and after applying petrolatum to prevent the infection from spreading. This will relieve pain and prevent bleeding.
- Lip balm can also be used to moisturize herpes simplex.
- If you have herpes simplex, don't share lip balm with other people.
Method 9 of 11: Don't kiss and share objects when you have herpes simplex
Step 1. This virus is highly contagious
Do not kiss or stick your mouth to other parts of the body when you have herpes simplex. Do not share utensils, glasses, or straws with others, and wash dishes and cutlery thoroughly to disinfect them.
- Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching herpes simplex to prevent the spread of infection.
- Avoid touching your eyes or genitals after you touch herpes simplex. This can spread the virus to other parts of the body.
Method 10 of 11: Make lifestyle changes to prevent herpes simplex from appearing in the future
Step 1. Wear sunscreen and keep your immune system healthy
Taking precautions in daily life can relieve symptoms and reduce the frequency of herpes simplex attacks. Be sure to use zinc oxide sunscreen on your lips and near your mouth, as sunlight can trigger herpes simplex. To keep your immune system healthy, eat healthy foods, get plenty of rest, and do regular exercise.
- Perform oral sex safely to prevent the spread of the virus in the genitals. To be on the safe side, use a dental dam (a barrier of latex during oral sex) or a condom.
- Wash towels and cloths after use to prevent the spread of infection.
Method 11 of 11: Reduce stress
Step 1. Stress can trigger herpes simplex
Reduce stress levels to speed up the timing of herpes simplex outbreaks and reduce the chance of herpes simplex appearing in the future (although there is no effective way to prevent herpes simplex completely). You can reduce stress by doing yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises. Make sure you also eat a healthy diet and sleep for at least 7 hours at night to reduce stress levels.
Consult a therapist or counselor if stress is interfering with your daily life
Tips
- Some women develop herpes simplex during or before menstruation.
- Hormonal changes can sometimes trigger the appearance of herpes simplex. Don't be surprised if certain contraceptives (such as birth control pills) can trigger herpes simplex.
Warning
- Herpes simplex is contagious, from the time this condition appears until you are completely cured.
- Consult a doctor before you try any home remedies. Some products, such as essential oils, can irritate the skin and make the condition worse. Never use nail polish remover or alcohol.
