Is Bactine effective for treating cold sores. How does Bactine compare to more expensive cold sore treatments. What are the active ingredients in Bactine that help with cold sores. Can Bactine prevent cold sores from developing. How should Bactine be applied to treat cold sores.

Understanding Cold Sores and Their Causes

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are a common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 or HSV-2). These painful, fluid-filled blisters typically appear on or around the lips and can be both uncomfortable and embarrassing for those affected. While there is no cure for the herpes virus, various treatments aim to reduce symptoms and speed up healing time.

What Triggers Cold Sores?

Cold sores can be triggered by various factors, including:

• Stress
• Fatigue
• Hormonal changes
• Weak immune system
• Sun exposure
• Fever or illness

Understanding these triggers can help individuals take preventive measures and start treatment early when symptoms first appear.

The Search for Effective Cold Sore Treatments

Many people seek fast-acting and effective treatments for cold sores. The market offers numerous options, ranging from over-the-counter creams to prescription medications. However, the effectiveness and cost of these treatments can vary significantly.

Expensive Treatments: Are They Worth It?

Some companies market high-priced cold sore treatments, promising quick relief and even prevention of outbreaks. One such product mentioned in the original text is Viroxyn, which was being sold at a dental convention for $49 for a 3-pack. But are these expensive treatments truly superior to more affordable options?

Bactine: An Unexpected Cold Sore Remedy

Bactine, a common first aid antiseptic, has gained attention as a potential cold sore treatment. This affordable solution contains active ingredients that may help combat cold sores effectively.

What Makes Bactine Effective for Cold Sores?

The key ingredient in Bactine that may help with cold sores is Benzalkonium Chloride (0.13%). This compound has antiseptic properties and has been studied for its effectiveness against various viruses, including herpes simplex virus.

Comparing Bactine to Expensive Cold Sore Treatments

When comparing Bactine to more expensive treatments like Viroxyn, it’s important to consider both efficacy and cost-effectiveness. Can a $3 bottle of Bactine really compete with a $49 specialized cold sore treatment?

Cost Comparison: Bactine vs. Specialized Treatments

The price difference between Bactine and specialized cold sore treatments is significant:

• Bactine: Approximately $3-5 for a 4-ounce bottle
• Viroxyn: $42.95-$49 for a 3-pack

This substantial price gap raises questions about the value proposition of expensive treatments.

Scientific Evidence Supporting Benzalkonium Chloride

Several studies have investigated the antiviral properties of Benzalkonium Chloride, the active ingredient in Bactine. While research specifically on cold sores is limited, these studies provide insight into the compound’s potential effectiveness.

Notable Research Findings

1. A study published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy (2000) found that Benzalkonium Chloride showed in vitro inactivation of various viruses, including herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2).

2. Research in the Journal of Hospital Infection (1998) compared the action of different antiseptics against enveloped and non-enveloped viruses, with Benzalkonium Chloride showing effectiveness.

3. A study in Dermatology (1997) compared various antiseptics for inactivating human viruses, providing context for understanding Benzalkonium Chloride’s potential.

How to Use Bactine for Cold Sores

If you’re considering using Bactine for cold sores, it’s important to apply it correctly for the best results. Here’s a suggested method based on the original text:

1. Soak a cotton ball with Bactine.
2. Gently apply the soaked cotton ball to the cold sore area.
3. Allow the lidocaine in Bactine to numb the area slightly.
4. Once numbed, carefully rub the Bactine into the sore without breaking any scabs or causing bleeding.
5. Repeat as necessary, being cautious not to overuse.

When to Start Treatment

For optimal results, it’s best to start treatment at the first sign of a cold sore, during the prodromal stage. This is when you may feel tingling or itching before the blister appears. Early treatment may help prevent the cold sore from fully developing.

Potential Risks and Considerations

While Bactine is generally considered safe for external use, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and considerations when using it for cold sores.

Safety Concerns

Some studies have raised concerns about the effects of Benzalkonium Chloride on mucous membranes. A study published in Sexually Transmitted Diseases (2010) found that Benzalkonium Chloride caused colposcopic changes and increased susceptibility to genital herpes infection in mice. While this study focused on genital herpes, it highlights the need for caution when using Benzalkonium Chloride-containing products on sensitive areas.

Allergic Reactions

As with any topical treatment, there’s a risk of allergic reactions. If you experience any unusual symptoms after applying Bactine, such as severe irritation, swelling, or difficulty breathing, discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately.

Alternative Cold Sore Treatments

While Bactine offers a potentially effective and affordable option for treating cold sores, it’s not the only solution available. Consider these alternatives:

• Over-the-counter antiviral creams (e.g., Docosanol, Benzyl alcohol)
• Prescription antiviral medications (e.g., Acyclovir, Valacyclovir)
• Natural remedies (e.g., Lemon balm, Propolis)
• Cold or warm compresses
• Lysine supplements

Choosing the Right Treatment

The effectiveness of cold sore treatments can vary from person to person. It may take some trial and error to find the most effective solution for your individual case. Consider factors such as cost, availability, and potential side effects when choosing a treatment.

Preventing Cold Sore Outbreaks

While treating cold sores is important, preventing outbreaks altogether is even better. Here are some strategies to reduce the frequency and severity of cold sore outbreaks:

• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or exercise
• Get adequate sleep to support your immune system
• Protect your lips from sun exposure with SPF lip balm
• Avoid sharing items that come into contact with your mouth
• Boost your immune system with a healthy diet and regular exercise
• Consider taking lysine supplements, which may help prevent outbreaks

Recognizing Early Signs

Learning to recognize the early signs of a cold sore can help you start treatment promptly. Pay attention to symptoms like tingling, itching, or burning sensations around your lips, which often precede the appearance of a blister.

The Role of Diet in Managing Cold Sores

Your diet may play a role in managing cold sores and preventing outbreaks. Some dietary considerations include:

• Increasing intake of lysine-rich foods (e.g., fish, chicken, eggs)
• Reducing consumption of arginine-rich foods (e.g., nuts, chocolate, oats)
• Maintaining a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
• Staying hydrated to support overall health and immune function

Supplements for Cold Sore Prevention

Some people find supplements helpful in preventing cold sore outbreaks. Common supplements include:

• Lysine
• Zinc
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E
• Lemon balm extract

Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While many cold sores can be managed at home, there are situations where it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional:

• If cold sores are very frequent or severe
• If cold sores don’t heal within two weeks
• If you have a weakened immune system
• If cold sores spread to your eyes or other parts of your body
• If you experience severe pain or other unusual symptoms

Treatment Options from Healthcare Providers

Healthcare providers can offer additional treatment options for severe or recurring cold sores, including:

• Prescription antiviral medications
• Stronger topical treatments
• Suppressive therapy for frequent outbreaks
• Testing to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions

Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if you’re concerned about your cold sores or if over-the-counter treatments aren’t providing sufficient relief.

The Psychological Impact of Cold Sores

Cold sores can have a significant psychological impact on those who suffer from them. The visible nature of these outbreaks can lead to feelings of embarrassment, self-consciousness, and social anxiety. It’s important to address these emotional aspects of living with cold sores.

Coping Strategies

Consider these strategies for managing the psychological impact of cold sores:

• Educate yourself and others about cold sores to reduce stigma
• Practice stress-reduction techniques to manage anxiety
• Seek support from friends, family, or support groups
• Focus on self-care during outbreaks
• Consider counseling if cold sores are significantly impacting your quality of life

Remember that cold sores are a common condition affecting millions of people worldwide. You’re not alone in dealing with this issue.

The Future of Cold Sore Treatment

Research into cold sore treatments is ongoing, with scientists exploring new avenues for managing and potentially preventing herpes simplex virus infections. Some areas of current research include:

• Development of new antiviral medications
• Exploration of gene therapy approaches
• Investigation of immunological treatments
• Study of natural compounds with antiviral properties
• Research into potential vaccines

Staying Informed

As new treatments and research findings emerge, it’s important to stay informed about developments in cold sore management. Consider:

• Following reputable health news sources
• Discussing new treatments with your healthcare provider
• Participating in clinical trials if you’re eligible
• Joining patient advocacy groups for updates and support

By staying informed, you can make the best decisions about managing your cold sores and take advantage of new treatments as they become available.

Herpes Cold Sore: Viroxyn vs. Bactine

Just got back from the ADA convention in Orlando and went by this booth that was touting a 100% cure or your money back for Herpes Simplex 1. The booth was complete with the carny type sales guy who could read your name badge from a mile away and yells out your first name to get your attention amidst the hundreds of conventioneers all around you. The booth was nice, complete with a pretty sales girl and lots of posters. They even gave me a DVD to review the product at my office. The product is called Viroxyn and comes in a 3 pack of vial that you crack open and apply to your cold sore. They said if you use it in the prodromal stage which it when you first start to feel it but it is not erupted yet, the cold sore may never appear.
This is the point where I had to ask the proverbal, “How much” question. The sales guy blurted out without even missing a beat, “Retails for $49 for a 3 pack”. He went on to say I can sell this product at my office and I can sell it to all my patients, blah, blah, blah and everyone will love me for having this product in my office.
I took the DVD and thanked him for the information and began to leave the booth when I got the Billy Mays, “BUT WAIT! Here at the show ONLY, you can get this miracle product for half off”. I have to admit I almost fell for that little deal. The product sounded too good to be true, they were at the prestigious ADA Annual Convention, and there was a money back guarantee. Hum, that little voice inside my head said, “Better not! The wife won’t like you spending money on the convention floor. Besides you already spent too much here, already”. So I answered back with my typical excuse that I had already used at least 100 times earlier that day, “Great! Maybe I’ll be back later to get some”. I smiled really big and turned quickly and left the booth as fast as possible trying to avoid the guy in the next booth wanting to sell me gelled inserts for my shoes.
I have to admit I was actually interested in the product to cure Herpes Simplex 1 in my patient’s mouths. Then about a week later I finally got around to looking at the DVD on Viroxyn. Their little sales pitch I was supposed to use in my office was, “Do you or any member in your family every suffer form cold sores or fever blisters”? I quickly looked the product up on the internet and sure enough it was even being sold on Amazon.com for $42.95. Then I looks at the reviews and they were generally good until one caught my eye titled, “Don’t waste your money” or something like that. The review said that the active ingredients (Benzalkonium Chloride 0.13%) in the expensive Viroxyn is the very same as what is in a $3 two oz bottle of Bactine. Yep, Bactine that gets the itch out.
So I am recommending you try this for your Herpes cold sore and write me back and tell me how it worked! Just load up a cotton ball with Bactine and rub it lightly until the lidocaine in Bactine gets the sore numb enough to rub it deeply into the sore without breaking the scabby tissue and making it bleed. Maybe one of my staff will get another cold sore in the near future for me to document with photos for us all to see for our self.

References:

1. Sex Transm Dis. 2010 Sep;37(9):579-84. Benzalkonium chloride causes colposcopic changes and increased susceptibility to genital herpes infection in mice. Vincent KL, Bell BA, Johnston RK, Stegall R, Vargas G, Tan A, Stanberry LR, Rosenthal SL, Milligan GN, Motamedi M, Bourne N. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555, USA.

2. J Antimicrob Chemother. 2000 Nov;46(5):685-93. In vitro inactivation of Chlamydia trachomatis and of a panel of DNA (HSV-2, CMV, adenovirus, BK virus) and RNA (RSV, enterovirus) viruses by the spermicide benzalkonium chloride. Bélec L, Tevi-Benissan C, Bianchi A, Cotigny S, Beumont-Mauviel M, Si-Mohamed A, Malkin JE. Laboratoire de virologie, Hôpital Broussais, Paris, France. Unité INSERM U430 and Université Pierre et Marie Curie (Paris VI), H opital Broussais. [email protected]

3.  J Hosp Infect. 1998 Apr;38(4):283-95. The action of three antiseptics/disinfectants against enveloped and non-enveloped viruses. Wood A, Payne D. Inveresk Research, Tranent, Scotland.

4. Dermatology. 1997;195 Suppl 2:29-35. Inactivation of human viruses by povidone-iodine in comparison with other antiseptics. Kawana R, Kitamura T, Nakagomi O, Matsumoto I, Arita M, Yoshihara N, Yanagi K, Yamada A, Morita O, Yoshida Y, Furuya Y, Chiba S. Morioka Yuuai General Hospital, Japan.

5. J Antimicrob Chemother. 1993 Jul;32(1):71-82. The inhibitory effect of spermicidal agents on replication of HSV-2 and HIV-1 in-vitro. Jennings R, Clegg A. Department of Experimental and Clinical Microbiology, University of Sheffield Medical School, UK.

6. Fertil Contracept Sex. 1989 Jun;17(6):503-8. [Sexually transmitted diseases (STD) and contraception]. [Article in French] Erny R, Porte H.

7. Appl Microbiol. 1964 Mar;12(2):132-7. Inactivation of viruses by benzalkonium chloride. Armstrong JA, Froelich EJ.

Can I Use Bactine For Cold Sores?

• What Is Bactine?
• Should You Use Bactine For Cold Sores?
• Can Bactine Heal Cold Sores Fast?
• Applying Bactine To Treat Cold Sores
• Does Bactine Have Any Side Effects?
• Other “Unconventional” Cold Sore Treatments
• Conclusion
• References

While Bactine is synonymous with treating cuts and abrasions, some people also use it to sterilize and heal cold sores. This is due to a potent active ingredient found in a cold sore treatment that’s no longer available over the counter. Let’s find out if you can use bactine for cold sores.

Complete with benzalkonium chloride and lidocaine, it seems to be developing somewhat of a following. While the product has always been well-known, many people who get fever blisters have turned to Bactine for help.

While nothing is foolproof, it could be a worthy treatment. This is especially true if you have tried other treatments and they have proven to be ineffective. We all respond differently to remedies.

You will learn more about Bactine, how it became a cold sore healer, and what it can potentially do for you. Let’s take a look now…

What Is Bactine?

Bactine is an antiseptic that has been on the market for almost 70 years. Primarily used to treat minor cuts and scrapes, it has been a household staple for many decades. Advertisements, both on radio and television, often feature parents applying Bactine to their child’s abrasions.

Containing the active ingredients benzalkonium chloride and lidocaine, Bactine can clean damaged skin and numb the problem area. Designed to prevent infection, Bactine also soothes compromised skin. This is especially good for children who would naturally be tempted to scratch the area.

To summarize:

• Bactine has been used to fight infection and heal damaged skin since 1950.
• The active ingredients serve as an antiseptic as well as a numbing agent. These two properties work in tandem to treat the damaged skin while also providing comfort.
• It can be purchased as a cleansing spray or a first aid liquid.

Should You Use Bactine For Cold Sores?

The way Bactine became a cold sore treatment method is intriguing. Courtesy of one key ingredient and also found in an established cold sore products, and it became an option for some.

Several years ago a product called Viroxyn hit the market. Branded as a fast-acting cold sore healer, Viroxyn^[1] was available to the public. However, after many twists and turns, the FDA cracked down on the product.

In a nutshell, the FDA declared Viroxyn for professional use only. The product still exists today, but it can only be given out by medical professionals.

How does this story relate to Bactine? One of the main ingredients in Viroxyn is benzalkonium chloride. This is what makes Viroxyn so effective. As noted earlier, Bactine also includes this ingredient. 0.13% to be exact.

Upon learning this information, people began to purchase Bactine for use beyond simple cuts and abrasions. Most notably the first aid liquid.

Serving to coat cold sores, Bactine can potentially prevent HSV-1 from attaching to skin cells. This prevention method has the potential to heal cold sores at the earliest of symptoms. Similar in many ways to Viroxyn.

While results will obviously vary, the Internet is filled with many testimonials where people are singing the praises of Bactine.

Can Bactine Heal Cold Sores Fast?

The potential for fast healing is there simply based on Bactine’s active ingredients. Some users have reported total healing in as little as 2-3 days.

The best course of action is to use Bactine as soon as cold sore symptoms strike. The initial lip/mouth tingle or slightest sign of discomfort is the ideal time for treatment.

While some people mix Bactine Liquid Aid with rubbing alcohol, just as many choose not to do so. Rubbing alcohol is likely to produce a stinging sensation, so apply at your own risk.

Applying Bactine To Treat Cold Sores

Noted below is a Step-by-Step Guide for a common Bactine application technique:

1. Using Bactine liquid treatment, apply the formula to a cotton ball or cotton swab.
2. With a careful and steady hand, apply the treatment to the problem area. It is important to focus only on the point of concern. Once the cotton strikes the infected area, it has now become contaminated. Additional contact with other parts of your body could spread HSV-1.^[2]
3. Bactine contains lidocaine which will numb the skin. However, this could have a negative impact as it relates to applying pressure. Not being able to feel the area, you could cause irritation and not be aware of the negative effects. Be as “visually gentle” as possible. This is especially critical if you are using Bactine at the scab stage.
4. Regarding treatment duration, continue to apply Bactine until all symptoms have vanished. If an active blister has already formed, continue treatment until the latter stages of scab coverage.
5. Bactine Liquid Aid is the treatment of choice for precautionary reasons. While Bactine cleansing spray contains the same ingredients, spray can be dangerous. The last thing you want to do is spray any solution on your lips. The liquid can enter your mouth, nose, eyes, etc. For a concentrated effort, we highly advise you purchase the liquid treatment aid.

Does Bactine Have Any Side Effects?

While major (extremely rare) side effects can accompany most any form of medicine, Bactine’s effects are minor.

Although the vast majority of users will have no issues at all, some people could endure skin discomfort. Most problems associated with Bactine will naturally remedy themselves once product use has been stopped.

As a critical warning, do not use Bactine if you are allergic to any of the main ingredients. You should always consult your physician if you notice any serious side effects.

Some of the most documented side effects are as follows:

• Burning sensation in the site area
• Rash
• Skin irritation (itching)

As it relates to cold sore treatment side effects, burning and irritation would likely be the concerns. While not likely to cause infection, a side effect could cause a delay in the healing process.

For an extensive look at Bactine and a complete guide to this product, please visit drugs.com.

To summarize:

• Like all forms of medicine, Bactine can produce side effects. The odds of anything more than minor skin irritation are highly unlikely.
• Do not use Bactine if you are allergic to any of the product’s active ingredients.

Other “Unconventional” Cold Sore Treatments

When it comes to what could be classified as unconventional, natural remedies and DIY methods lead the way.

With the exception of Vicks VapoRub, there are not many stories like Bactine. Brand products that are used beyond their original intent. Perhaps this is what has given Bactine somewhat of a cult following. Especially on various health related message boards.

While measures such as apple cider vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, and essential oils are trendy, OTC products will always win the day.

Selections such as Abreva, Orajel, and HERP-B-GONE are proven treatments. In fact, many selections have been FDA approved.

While this is in no way to suggest that unconventional means are a fool’s errand, there are numerous products designed to treat cold sores. If you have HSV-1, we advise you to test the OTC brands first before taking another route.

To recap:

• Unconventional methods are trendy but trusted OTC cold sore treatment methods are advised.
• Bactine is an interesting case. Not many medical aid products, designed for other means, make a crossover into cold sores. Vicks VapoRub would be another example.
• Try OTC products before taking an alternative route.

Conclusion

The biggest takeaway from this material involves the active ingredients in Bactine. This is especially important considering a major player in the cold sore game, Viroxyn, uses the same active base.

If Viroxyn, which is touted as a successful treatment, contains benzalkonium chloride, then Bactine is worth a try. While the results may vary, Bactine is certainly worth a go, especially considering that it is a household name and has a proven track record.

Conditions such as HSV-1 will always lend themselves to experimental treatments. While some can be very dangerous, others can be worth your time. If you know the worse result is an ineffective result, and you are naturally more inclined to try most any treatment.

Although OTC cold sore treatment brands are likely to perform much better, Bactine, if used responsibly, could be a worthy option. I hope our article helped you understand if you can use bactine for cold sores.

References

1. https://www.drugs.com/otc/119151/viroxyn-professional-use.html
2. Arora R, Chattopadhyay S, Agrawal S, Chatterjee S. Self-inflicted herpetic whitlow. BMJ Case Reports. 2014;2014:bcr2013201817. doi:10.1136/bcr-2013-201817.

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When the new is a well-camouflaged old one.: valera_kolpakov — LiveJournal

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They sent me a promotional leaflet of a remedy for herpes sores on the lip (cold sores). It’s called Viroxyn. According to the manufacturers, it has an absolutely fantastic effect and the sores pass quickly. Two pages of bluster and no information about the active ingredient in this miracle solution. Makes me think. I went to dig in tyrnet what kind of animal it is. Found a lot of positive feedback from patients, it’s good. And here is the necessary information from one doctor who was puzzled by the same question as me. It turns out that the active principle of the miracle solution is benzalkonium chloride, an antiseptic that has been used in America since 1950s. It is used as an antiseptic and in combination with conventional lidocaine in the form of Bactine.

Baktin costs mere pennies, and they want 50 dollars for viroxin. At the same time, bactin is sold in a bottle, and viroxin is sold in three capsules that need to be broken and used immediately.

The whole innovation of this viroxin is that a cotton swab was included in the kit, with which you need to rub the solution into the sore. In addition, it is assured that a miracle remedy can be purchased exclusively from dentists and dermatologists. I am offered to buy from them for $50 a pack, and sell to patients at exorbitant prices. At the same time, patients will kiss me with happiness with their lips with sores. And this package of viroxin costs the same 50 bucks on Amazon, for example. Not to mention the fact that in pharmacies there are cheaper capsules of the same kind, only without the sonorous name viroxin.

In general, if this miracle viroxin is sold to you in the office, then the doctor will either scam you like a sucker, or he will try to scam you.

We will talk about other remedies for viral sores very soon.

Tags: *Dentistry

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• Mouse fuss in our village

  I received a letter from a fellow dentist, a woman, maxillofacial surgeon from a neighboring district center. She decided to make public the story of her lawsuit with…

• “Weeds” are walking the planet

  Michigan became the tenth American state and the first in the Midwest to legalize “weed”, or as the Americans call marijuana – weed…

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  This young patient was always brought to us by a kind grandmother, he was on her insurance policy. He didn’t like to brush his teeth, and therefore he was our constant. ..

5 incarnations of herpes that you can hardly guess about

When the word “herpes” is usually referred to as a “cold” on the lips. In fact, herpes viruses are much more diverse.

There are at least 25 different viruses in the herpesvirus family. Some of them strike a person especially often. Let’s talk about the most common representatives of this family.

Herpes simplex virus type 1

This is the same “classic” herpes that most often manifests itself as rashes on the lips. For a long time, this virus can live in the body without symptoms. But against the background of a decrease in immunity – for example, with a cold or chronic stress – familiar blisters appear on the lips. Herpes can also “jump up” in the mouth or on the inside of the lip – this is the so-called herpetic stomatitis. Extremely rarely, the herpes simplex virus type 1 leads to rashes in the genital area and anus.

Herpesvirus type 1 is usually transmitted orally through kissing, sharing towels and dishes. You can also catch the virus from a person who has no symptoms, but herpes is especially contagious during exacerbations, when rashes appear. Most people become infected with this virus in childhood, and by the age of 50, 67% of people in the world become carriers of herpes simplex type 1.

At the moment, it is impossible to completely get rid of herpesvirus type 1, as well as from other members of the family. Herpes viruses are embedded in the host’s DNA and remain there forever. True, experiments are already being carried out, during which, with the help of genetic “scissors” – CRISPR / Cas9 technologies— scientists are trying to “cut” viral DNA from human cells. So, it may soon be possible to really recover from the “cold” on the lips forever – or at least until the next infection.

So far, the treatment is only symptomatic – these are antiviral drugs acyclovir, famciclovir, valaciclovir. It is advisable to take them at the first signs of illness, even before the appearance of rashes. If you feel tingling, burning or itching around the lips, this is a sure sign of approaching herpes, and you can start therapy.

Genital herpes (herpes simplex virus type 2)

This type of virus, as the name suggests, affects the genitals and is almost always sexually transmitted. According to WHO estimates, 6% of people worldwide are infected with it – 267 million women and 150 million men. This gender bias is explained by the fact that it is easier for a woman to get infected from a man than vice versa.

Genital herpes is most often asymptomatic – most carriers do not even realize that they are infected. Only 10-20% of people who learn about the presence of herpes simplex virus type 2 say that they have had rashes in the genital area. Often, genital herpes is found in women when they are tested for ToRCH infection during pregnancy.

If herpesvirus type 2 does give symptoms, then the person develops rashes and ulcers on the genitals or near the anus. When these symptoms first occur, they may be accompanied by high fever, body aches, and swollen lymph nodes. Relapses of genital herpes are usually milder and less frequent over time.

Treatment for genital herpes is the same as for herpes simplex type 1, with acyclovir, famciclovir, or valaciclovir at the first sign of illness. You can reduce the risk of contracting genital herpes by using a condom. However, unfortunately, it does not give a 100% guarantee of safety, because rashes can be located throughout the genital area, and not just in those places that are protected. So when symptoms appear, it is better to refuse sex until the rashes pass.

Chickenpox and shingles

Yes, these diseases are also caused by one of the herpesviruses, the Varicella-zoster virus, aka varicella zoster virus, aka herpesvirus type 3. Most people deal with the Var virus. icella – Zoster in childhood, at the age of 10 years. It causes the well-known chickenpox, a highly contagious disease in which the child has a fever, and an itchy rash jumps up all over the body. The virus is transmitted by airborne droplets, as well as by touching the patient and objects that he has just touched.

The illness resolves on its own in 7–10 days. All that can be done is to relieve the symptoms. From a high temperature, you can take an antipyretic, from itching – an antihistamine. In Russia, it is customary to smear the rashes themselves with brilliant green, but this barbaric method of treatment is not necessary – all over the world, the rash is treated with a colorless calamine lotion.

Parents of small children sometimes arrange “chicken pox parties” on purpose so that all the kids get infected from a sick person with chicken pox and quickly recover. This is done because in adulthood, chickenpox is much more difficult to tolerate. And if you get chickenpox in childhood, then immunity will form for life.

Is such a radical approach justified? Not really. There is a vaccine that protects against the Varicella-Zoster virus – it can be given to children after a year, and it gives stable lifelong immunity. Getting sick with chickenpox is usually not dangerous, but very unpleasant – by getting vaccinated, you can get rid of this suffering.

Another reason to avoid getting herpesvirus type 3 is shingles. In adults who had chickenpox in childhood, the Varicella-Zoster virus is in “sleep” mode for the time being. At any moment, it can become active and provoke a painful rash all over the body – this is shingles.

The Varicella-Zoster virus lives in nerve cells, which is why the rashes it causes not only itch, but also cause pain. Even when the rash clears up, some people may be left with chronic pain—postherpetic neuralgia.

To reduce the risk of complications, you should take the antiviral drugs you already know – acyclovir, famciclovir or valaciclovir. You can relieve symptoms in the same way as in the treatment of chickenpox in children, and take painkillers for pain.

Epstein-Barr virus

This is a type 4 herpesvirus that causes infectious mononucleosis. The Epstein-Barr virus is transmitted mainly through saliva – which is why mononucleosis has received the popular name “kissing disease”. And they become infected most often in childhood and adolescence.

Epstein-Barr virus does not always provoke the development of mononucleosis. In many children, the infection is asymptomatic, or there are blurred symptoms characteristic of any childhood illness – weakness, sore throat, low temperature. Then the virus “calms down”, and the person becomes a carrier.

Primary Epstein-Barr virus infection is more severe in adolescents and adults and may develop infectious mononucleosis. Symptoms include weakness, fever, rash, inflammation in the throat, swelling and soreness of the cervical lymph nodes, enlargement of the spleen and liver. Severe lethargy may persist for weeks or even months.

There is no cure for mononucleosis. Patients need to keep calm, avoid physical exertion for 1-2 months (as there is a risk of rupture of the spleen), drink plenty of fluids. Within a few weeks, mononucleosis will go away on its own. To relieve pain and fever, you can take an antipyretic, preferably ibuprofen – paracetamol is too stressful for an already affected liver, and aspirin can cause dangerous Reye’s syndrome in teenagers.

It is almost impossible to protect yourself from the Epstein-Barr virus: there is no vaccine, and people who do not have any symptoms can be contagious. As a preventive measure, it is better not to use other people’s toothbrushes, dishes and towels. Sometimes, when the immune system is weakened, the Epstein-Barr virus in carriers can reactivate, again causing symptoms of the disease.

Cytomegalovirus

This is another member of the herpesvirus family that lives in the body of many people. One in three children in the United States is already a carrier of cytomegalovirus, or herpesvirus type 5, by the age of five. And by the age of 40, more than half of Americans are infected with cytomegalovirus.