How is herpes simplex 1 diagnosed. What are the most effective treatments for herpes simplex 1. Can herpes simplex 1 be cured completely. How to manage herpes simplex 1 outbreaks effectively. What lifestyle changes can help control herpes simplex 1 symptoms. Are there any natural remedies for herpes simplex 1. How to prevent the spread of herpes simplex 1 to others.

Understanding Herpes Simplex 1: Causes and Symptoms

Herpes simplex 1 (HSV-1) is a highly contagious viral infection that primarily affects the oral region. It’s one of two types of the herpes simplex virus, with HSV-2 being the other. While HSV-1 is commonly associated with oral herpes, it can also cause genital herpes.

The virus is typically transmitted through direct contact with infected skin or bodily fluids. Once contracted, the virus remains dormant in the body, occasionally reactivating to cause outbreaks.

Common Symptoms of HSV-1

• Tingling or burning sensation before blisters appear
• Painful sores or blisters around the mouth or lips
• Fever and body aches
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Headache

Do all infected individuals show symptoms. No, some people may be asymptomatic carriers, meaning they can spread the virus without experiencing outbreaks themselves.

Diagnosing Herpes Simplex 1: Methods and Accuracy

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment of herpes simplex 1. Healthcare providers typically use a combination of physical examination and laboratory tests to confirm the presence of the virus.

Physical Examination

A healthcare provider will examine the affected area for characteristic signs of herpes, such as clusters of small, fluid-filled blisters. However, visual inspection alone is not always sufficient for a definitive diagnosis.

Laboratory Tests

1. Viral Culture: A sample is taken from an active sore and cultured to see if the virus grows.
2. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Test: This highly sensitive test detects the genetic material of the virus.
3. Blood Tests: These can detect antibodies to HSV-1, indicating past or current infection.

Which test is most accurate for diagnosing HSV-1. The PCR test is generally considered the gold standard due to its high sensitivity and specificity.

Antiviral Medications: The First Line of Defense

Antiviral medications are the cornerstone of herpes simplex 1 treatment. These drugs work by inhibiting viral replication, thereby reducing the severity and duration of outbreaks.

Commonly Prescribed Antivirals

• Acyclovir (Zovirax)
• Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
• Famciclovir (Famvir)

These medications can be prescribed for episodic treatment (taken at the first sign of an outbreak) or as suppressive therapy (taken daily to prevent outbreaks).

How effective are antiviral medications in treating HSV-1. Studies have shown that antiviral drugs can reduce the duration of outbreaks by 1-2 days and may decrease the frequency of recurrences by up to 80% when used as suppressive therapy.

Topical Treatments: Soothing Relief for Outbreaks

While oral antiviral medications are the primary treatment, topical treatments can provide additional relief during outbreaks.

Over-the-Counter Options

• Docosanol (Abreva): An FDA-approved cream that can shorten healing time
• Benzyl alcohol: Helps relieve pain and itching
• Lidocaine: A topical anesthetic for pain relief

Prescription Topicals

Penciclovir cream is a prescription-strength topical antiviral that can reduce healing time and pain associated with cold sores.

Are topical treatments as effective as oral antivirals. While topical treatments can provide symptomatic relief, they are generally less effective than oral antivirals in shortening the duration of outbreaks or preventing recurrences.

Managing Outbreaks: Practical Tips for Symptom Relief

In addition to medical treatments, there are several self-care measures that can help manage herpes simplex 1 outbreaks and provide relief from symptoms.

Home Remedies and Lifestyle Adjustments

• Apply cold compresses to soothe inflammation and pain
• Use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
• Avoid touching or picking at sores to prevent secondary infection
• Maintain good hygiene, washing hands frequently
• Use lip balm with sun protection to prevent sun-triggered outbreaks

Can dietary changes help manage HSV-1 outbreaks. While there’s no definitive evidence, some studies suggest that a diet rich in lysine (an amino acid found in foods like fish, chicken, and eggs) and low in arginine (found in nuts and chocolate) may help reduce outbreak frequency.

Suppressive Therapy: Long-Term Management of HSV-1

For individuals experiencing frequent or severe outbreaks, suppressive therapy with daily antiviral medication may be recommended. This approach can significantly reduce the frequency of recurrences and lower the risk of transmission to partners.

Benefits of Suppressive Therapy

• Reduces outbreak frequency by up to 80%
• Decreases asymptomatic viral shedding
• Lowers the risk of transmitting the virus to partners
• Improves quality of life for those with frequent outbreaks

How long should suppressive therapy be continued. The duration of suppressive therapy varies depending on individual circumstances. Some people may need to continue treatment indefinitely, while others may be able to discontinue after a year and reassess their needs.

Alternative and Complementary Therapies for HSV-1

While conventional medical treatments remain the mainstay of HSV-1 management, some individuals explore alternative and complementary therapies to support their treatment regimen.

Promising Alternative Approaches

1. Propolis: A bee product with potential antiviral properties
2. Lemon balm: May have antiviral effects when applied topically
3. Stress reduction techniques: Stress is a known trigger for outbreaks, so practices like meditation or yoga may be beneficial
4. Zinc: Some studies suggest zinc may help reduce outbreak frequency

Are alternative therapies as effective as conventional treatments. While some alternative therapies show promise, they generally lack the robust scientific evidence supporting conventional antiviral medications. It’s important to discuss any alternative treatments with a healthcare provider before use.

Preventing Transmission: Strategies for Reducing Spread

Preventing the spread of herpes simplex 1 is an important aspect of managing the condition, both for individuals with HSV-1 and their partners.

Key Prevention Strategies

• Avoid skin-to-skin contact during outbreaks
• Use barrier methods (like dental dams or condoms) during intimate contact
• Wash hands frequently, especially after touching the affected area
• Avoid sharing items that come into contact with the mouth, such as utensils or lip balm
• Consider suppressive therapy to reduce asymptomatic viral shedding

Is it possible to completely prevent transmission of HSV-1. While these strategies can significantly reduce the risk of transmission, it’s not possible to eliminate the risk entirely due to asymptomatic viral shedding.

Understanding and implementing effective treatment strategies for herpes simplex 1 is crucial for managing symptoms and reducing transmission. From antiviral medications to lifestyle adjustments and preventive measures, a comprehensive approach can significantly improve quality of life for those affected by HSV-1. As research continues, new treatments and management strategies may emerge, offering even better options for controlling this common viral infection.

Herpes simplex: Diagnosis and treatment

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Best Home Remedies to Treat Herpes

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Herpes is an infection that comes from the herpes simplex virus. Although there is currently no cure, there are some treatments, including home remedies, that may help relieve the symptoms.

A quick look at the best home remedies for herpes

• Best heat therapy compress: Curad Ironman Hot or Cold Compress
• Best honey: Mountain Valley Honey Kanuka Honey
• Best garlic supplement: Nature’s Bounty Garlic
• Best vitamin D supplement: Pure Encapsulations D3 (Vegan) Capsules
• Best vitamins E supplement: Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Vitamin E
• Best vitamin C gummies: Nordic Naturals Vitamin C Gummies
• Best for skin barrier: Vaseline 100% Pure Petroleum Jelly
• Best L-lysine supplement: CVS Pharmacy L-Lysine Caplets 1,000 mg
• Best zinc supplement: Thorne Zinc Picolinate 30 mg
• Best oils: Pura D’Or Essential Oil Set
• Best for low cost prescriptions: Blink Health
• Best for online consultations: Lemonaid

Herpes symptoms include sores on the skin. The infection typically affects the mouth, genitals, and anal area.

There are two types of herpes simplex virus: herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) and herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2). Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 can cause genital herpes, but only HSV-1 causes oral herpes.

Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.

Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.

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A hot or cold compress may ease the pain and itchiness of a herpes lesion. Applying heat to the area around the lips can also stop blisters from forming during an oral herpes infection.

A cold compress is easy to make at home. Wrap a flannel around an ice pack and apply it to the painful area.

However, do not apply the ice pack directly to the skin. It is also advisable to wash the area gently with salt water.

Individuals can purchase hot and cold compresses from various pharmacies and online stores.

Best heat therapy compress: Curad Ironman Hot or Cold Reusable Compress

• Price: around $12
• Pros: delivers hot and cold therapy, also suitable for muscle pain
• Cons: requires a microwave to heat up

This is a pack of two reusable compresses. A person can put them in the freezer to provide cold compression or heat them in the microwave for a warm compress.

A person can use both packs simultaneously to alternate between hot and cold therapy. It also states they are suitable for muscle pain.

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One 2019 study suggests that applying kanuka honey may be as effective in treating oral herpes as applying antiviral creams.

In the study, it took 8 days for the sores to heal with antiviral cream and nine days with honey. However, oral herpes can get better within 1–2 weeks without treatment, and the study did not include a group that did not receive treatment.

It is also unclear whether the potential healing properties are unique to kanuka honey or whether they would be present in any type of honey.

People can purchase kanuka honey from various companies online.

Best honey: Mountain Valley Honey Kanuka Honey

• Price: around $30
• Pros: natural, research suggests it is effective against herpes
• Cons: unsuitable for vegans, expensive

This raw kanuka honey comes from the white flowers of the kanuka tree in New Zealand.

The company states that its honey is 100% raw and unpasteurized. It can be used in food or as a face mask.

The company writes that with every purchase, $1 goes to Bright Hope World, which funds sustainable agricultural projects.

This product does not suit people following a vegan lifestyle.

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Older studies suggest that allicin, a compound in garlic, may be effective against HSV. However, there is no clear evidence to suggest that garlic can prevent, cure, or treat herpes.

A 2020 systematic review of research investigating the antiviral properties of the active ingredients in garlic concluded that garlic can prevent viral infections by stopping virus particles from entering cells and replicating.

While garlic may have effective properties against HSV, research notes that garlic contains volatile organic sulfur compounds. These compounds can cause burns when using raw garlic on the skin. The authors report that burns on the legs are common.

People should carefully consider the risk of burns when using raw garlic topically on their skin and around mucous membranes, such as the eyes, lips, and nose. If a person experiences any irritation, they should discontinue use and thoroughly wash the area immediately.

Different ways of using garlic include eating fresh garlic and taking garlic capsules.

Various companies sell garlic capsules and tablets online.

Best garlic supplement: Nature’s Bounty Garlic

• Price: around $28
• Pros: comes in a pack of four, third-party tested
• Cons: limited scientific evidence to prove garlic is effective against herpes

These tablets are odor-free and have an enteric coating. The company claims the enteric coating keeps the tablets intact until they reach the small intestine.

Each tablet contains 400 milligrams (mg) of garlic extract, which Nature’s Bounty states is equivalent to 2,000 mg of fresh garlic. The company recommends that people take one tablet up to three times daily with food.

Nature’s Bounty tests its products for purity and to ensure they are free of bacteria. Its ingredients are sourced from suppliers that meet Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards for supplements.

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Various vitamins may help protect the body against the virus and relieve symptoms.

Herpes infections are more likely to recur if a person has low vitamin D levels. Vitamin D can protect the body against infection by improving part of the immune system.

Additionally, research shows that vitamin E can enhance the immune response and help prevent several infectious diseases in humans.

Researchers are currently conducting clinical trials using vitamin E against herpes.

There is also ongoing research into the antiviral properties of vitamin C. Retrospective studies suggest that oral vitamin C in combination with antiviral treatment may reduce the recurrence of herpes simplex keratitis, a corneal infection resulting from HSV.

Companies and websites that sell vitamin supplements include:

Best vitamin D supplement: Pure Encapsulations D3 (Vegan) Capsules

• Price: around $37
• Pros: vitamin D can support the immune system, easy to take
• Cons: expensive, delivers above recommended daily dose of vitamin D

These vitamin D3 capsules are free of gluten and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

Pure Encapsulations claims this product may help improve cardiovascular and immune health and support bone, prostate, and colon function.

The serving size is 1 vegan capsule. The product labeling states each serving contains 50 micrograms (mcg) of vitamin D3.

This product is suitable for vegans who want to supplement their food with more vitamin D3.

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Best vitamin E supplement: Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Vitamin E

• Price: around $28
• Pros: may support the immune system, can be added to drinks
• Cons: delivers significantly more vitamin E than daily allowances recommend

These raw vitamin E capsules do not contain any GMOs, synthetic binders, fillers, or artificial flavors. Additional ingredients of this product include fat-soluble vitamins A, D, K, and selenium.

Garden of Life claims these vitamin supplements can help support eye and immune health.

This product is also suitable for vegetarians.

The company recommends people take two capsules daily, either with or without food. A person can also break the capsules apart and add the powder to their drinks.

Each serving size has the following nutritional facts:

• Vitamin A: 900 mcg
• Vitamin D: 50 mcg
• Vitamin E: 125 mcg
• Vitamin K: 72 mcg
• Selenium: 61 mcg

These capsules may suit people who would like a supplement with multiple vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E.

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Best vitamin C gummies: Nordic Naturals Vitamin C Gummies

• Price: around $23
• Pros: easy to take, suitable for children and adults
• Cons: contains added sugar, delivers significantly more vitamin C than is recommended for children

These vitamin C gummies are suitable for individuals 4 years and older. The gummies are vegetarian, vegan, and GMO-free.

Nordic Naturals claims that these gummies may have antioxidant properties that could help support a person’s immune system.

The company recommends that people take two gummies a day with food. Each gummy contains 250 mg of vitamin C.

These gummies are suitable for young children or those who may find swallowing capsules or tablets difficult.

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For genital herpes, applying petroleum jelly to the affected area can reduce the discomfort associated with urinating. It is important to wash the hands before and after using the jelly.

Medical professionals may also recommend prescription gels or ointments.

Vaseline is a popular brand that sells petroleum jelly in many stores and online.

Best for skin barrier: Vaseline 100% Pure Petroleum Jelly

• Price: from around $5
• Pros: available in a range of sizes, suitable for sensitive skin
• Cons: reports of product hygiene issues from online sellers

A person can purchase Vaseline online through Amazon.

Vaseline states it is hypoallergenic and suitable for sensitive, dry skin.

It also claims that its product helps seal in moisture, which may help the skin heal naturally. Additionally, petroleum jelly creates a barrier between the skin and outside elements.

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For centuries, people have used pomegranate as a home remedy for infection. It contains zinc, which can help reduce herpes infections.

Pomegranate also contains antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. These properties may support the immune system.

Other dietary recommendations include:

• increasing intake of the amino acid lysine, though evidence as to its effectiveness is mixed
• avoiding the amino acid arginine
• avoiding excessive smoking and consumption of red wine and caffeine
• identifying and removing food products that cause allergies

Soy protein, peanuts, walnuts, and fish are all rich sources of arginine. Avocados, chicken, cottage cheese, and pork are all sources of lysine.

An older study suggests that the following supplements may be effective at controlling herpes symptoms:

• lysine
• zinc
• adenosine monophosphate
• lemon balm
• vitamin C
• vitamin E

In a 2017 review, experts found that taking a minimum of 1 g of lysine per day, in combination with a low arginine diet, can help people manage their symptoms.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve supplements, so it is important to discuss supplement use with a healthcare professional and be cautious about extravagant claims.

Additionally, a person should always check with a doctor before taking supplements as they may interact with other medications or have adverse effects.

Companies that stock lysine supplements include CVSHealth.

Best L-Lysine supplement: CVS Pharmacy L-Lysine Caplets

Price: $11.29
Pros: suitable for smaller budgets, high volume per bottle, third-party tested
Cons: limited research into the effectiveness of L-lysine for herpes

These caplets are suitable for vegetarians and free of allergens such as yeast, wheat, gluten, milk, and lactose. They are also free of sugar.

CVS Pharmacy claims these caplets may help support healthy skin, collagen production, and tissue maintenance.

CVS states it requires third-party testing for all supplements.

The company recommends taking one caplet a day on an empty stomach. Each pill contains 1,000 mg of L-lysine.

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Best zinc supplement: Thorne Zinc Picolinate

• Price: around $16
• Pros: certain bottles hold sports certifications, comes in a choice of volumes
• Cons: delivers over the recommended daily allowance of zinc, larger bottles are expensive

These zinc capsules are gluten, dairy, and soy-free.

Thorne claims that these supplements may support immune and reproductive health. Each capsule contains 30 mg of zinc.

The company recommends taking one capsule per day.

It is important to note that 30 mg of zinc is more than double the daily recommended value, which the National Institutes of Health states is 8–11 mg for adults.

A person can choose between bottles containing 60 or 180 capsules. They can also choose a bottle that holds National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) certification for sport, meaning the product has been tested and found to be free of banned substances.

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The use of certain essential oils can reduce viral spread among HSV-1 cells.

Oils that may help include:

• garden thyme
• a flowering plant called Zataria multiflora
• Eucalyptus caesia
• rosemary
• wormwood
• hinoki cypress
• the medicinal plant Tripterygium hypoglaucum
• compounds in the oil of cloves and the essential oil of cinnamon and basil

A person can use oils in a diffuser, diluted in a carrier oil, added to a bath, or massaged on the skin.

People should not consume essential oils, as some are toxic and can cause harm.

When using essential oils for aromatherapy, it is also important to consider anyone else in the area. Some essential oils are harmful to pets and pregnant or nursing people.

Using a carrier oil is important, as the essential oil may cause adverse effects if a person applies it directly to the skin. Carrier oils includealmond oil and olive oil.

Researchers are conducting clinical trials to test for other potentially effective home remedies, including sesame oil, organic coconut oil, and jojoba oil.

There is not yet enough evidence to prove that a specific oil can help a person manage herpes symptoms.

People can buy essential and carrier oils online or in stores. The brand Pura D’Or sells a range of carrier oils online.

Best oils: Pura D’Or Essential Oil Set

• Price: around $25
• Pros: includes a wide range of oils, USDA organic certified
• Cons: may contain oils that have not been studied for effectiveness in herpes

This set contains 10 essential oils, including:

• lemon
• lavender
• frankincense
• eucalyptus
• cedarwood
• peppermint
• lemongrass
• rosemary
• tea tree
• sweet orange

Pura D’Or writes that a person can use these oils topically, but they must dilute the oils with a carrier oil first.

This pack may be best for people who want to explore a range of essential oils. However, this pack may contain oils that have not been studied for their effectiveness against a herpes skin rash.

A person should speak with a doctor before using essential oils for this purpose.

The company claims these oils are certified USDA organic.

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Some medications can lower the chance of spreading the herpes virus and reduce the severity and frequency of the symptoms.

The main drugs doctors will prescribe for this purpose are antiviral medications. These include acyclovir, famciclovir, valacyclovir, and penciclovir.

According to health experts, acyclovir can reduce first-time or repeated outbreaks that occur when individuals have genital herpes. It also reduces pain and speeds up the healing process in those who have chickenpox and shingles.

Some people may prefer taking valacyclovir and famciclovir, as they require less frequent dosing than acyclovir. However, these medications do not have approval for use in children.

A doctor can prescribe antiviral medications to take orally, intravenously, or in the form of a topical cream.

Online companies that offer herpes medications include:

Best for lower-cost prescriptions: Blink Health

• Price: dependent on medication
• Pros: offers free shipping, medication can arrive in 3–5 days
• Cons: does not offer consultations with a doctor

This telehealth service provides prescription herpes medication, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir.

To use this service, people must have a current prescription or contact a doctor online through Blink Health.

Blink Health offers home delivery for medication, or people can pick up medication at a local pharmacy. According to Blink Health, it works with over 35,000 pharmacies, including Walmart Pharmacy, Safeway, and Albertson.

Blink Health is suitable for people who cannot get to a pharmacy in person and would prefer their medication delivered to a location of their choice. Blink Health claims to find the lowest price for medication, which may help to save people money on their prescriptions.

The company has a 1.5 customer rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB) and a 1.6-star rating on Trustpilot, based on 45 and 59 reviews, respectively. Positive reviews mention quick deliveries and more stable pricing, whereas negative reviews raise concerns about billing and customer service.

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Best for online consultations: Lemonaid

• Price: $25 for consultation and prescription, cost of medication varies
• Pros: convenient online appointments and medication delivery
• Cons: does not accept insurance for consultations

This telehealth company provides prescription medications for herpes.

People must fill in an online health questionnaire and provide a photo ID. Depending on the state a person resides in, Lemonaid may require a video or telephone consultation with a healthcare professional.

The company offers preventive treatment with a prescription that lasts for 1 year or immediate treatment for current herpes flare-ups.

People can choose home delivery or pick up their medication at a local pharmacy.

However, Lemonaid does not offer genital herpes prescription medications for people using the service for the first time. In this case, users must go to a doctor or gynecologist for an initial diagnosis.

The majority of Lemonaid consultation fees cost a flat rate of $25. This fee does not cover the cost of medication.

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The table below is an overview of the above products and services:

	Type of treatment	Pro	Con	Requires a prescription	Price
Curad	compress	reusable	requires microwave to heat	no	around $12
Mountain Valley	honey	natural product	unsuitable for vegans	no	around $30
Nature’s Bounty	supplement	third-party tested	limited evidence for effectiveness	no	around $28
Pure Encapsulations	supplement	vitamin D can support the immune system	delivers above recommended daily allowance of vitamin D	no	around $37
Garden of Life	supplement	may support the immune system	delivers above recommended daily allowance of vitamin E	no	around $28
Nordic Naturals	supplement	suitable for children and adults	contains added sugar	no	around $23
Vaseline	topical jelly	suitable for sensitive skin	mixed online reviews	no	from around $5
CVS Pharmacy	supplement	suitable for smaller budgets	limited evidence for effectiveness	no	$11. 29
Thorne Research	supplement	some products are NSF Certified for Sport	larger bottles are expensive	no	around $16
Pura D’Or	oil	includes wide range of oils	may contain oils unsuitable for herpes skin rash	no	around $25
Blink Health	telehealth service	can deliver medication in 3–5 days	does not offer doctor consultations	yes	varies
Lemonaid	telehealth service	convenient online appointments and medication delivery	does not accept insurance for consultations	yes	varies

A person with herpes may wish to consider the following factors when looking for a home remedy:

• Safety: There is often limited scientific evidence of the effectiveness of many home remedies for herpes. A person should speak with a doctor before trying a home remedy to discuss the safety of their chosen treatment. If they develop adverse reactions to a home remedy, they should stop using it immediately and seek medical advice.
• Herpes severity: If a person has a severe herpes infection or recurrent herpes flare-ups, they should consider speaking with a doctor for medication. While there is currently no cure for herpes, doctor-prescribed medication may be more effective than home remedies with limited evidence of effectiveness.
• Ingredients: Not all home remedies for herpes will be FDA regulated or approved. A person should always read the ingredients in their chosen herpes treatment and avoid products that do not clearly state the ingredients.
• Skin reactions: Some oils and other topical products can cause skin irritation. People with sensitive skin should check the ingredients before using these products and avoid products that include ingredients they are sensitive to. A person should stop using products that they develop a reaction to.
• Cost: Some products can be expensive. A person should consider how often they will need to use their herpes remedy and consider a product that will be effective and fit their budget.

Most cases of herpes will produce no symptoms. However, if there are any symptoms, a person should avoid engaging in oral, anal, or vaginal sex.

A condom or another barrier method may offer some protection, but it may not entirely stop the transmission.

It is best to have an open discussion about herpes with a new sexual partner and consider taking a herpes test. If one person receives a diagnosis of herpes, they should inform all their recent sexual partners, who may also need a test and treatment.

Learn more about the best at-home herpes tests here.

A person should consult a doctor for testing if they have had sex with someone with herpes or if they have any symptoms.

If someone with herpes is pregnant, they should consult a medical professional. Although rare, the herpes virus may pass to the fetus before, during, or immediately after delivery. This could cause neonatal herpes, which can be dangerous.

While there is no cure for herpes, outbreaks tend to become less frequent over time. People with HSV-2 may only have four or five outbreaks a year, whereas a person with HSV-1 may not experience any.

However, if someone experiences an outbreak, there are several ways to minimize discomfort and prevent spreading the virus to others. Below are various things to do and avoid when managing a herpes episode.

Do

• watch out for warning signs, such as tingling or burning sensations
• keep the area clean using plain or salt water
• apply a covered ice pack to soothe any pain
• cover blisters in petroleum jelly or lidocaine to reduce pain while urinating
• pour water over the genitals while urinating to reduce pain

Avoid

• having anal, vaginal, or oral sex during an outbreak
• wearing tight clothing that may rub against or irritate blisters
• touching blisters with bare skin or unwashed hands

Was this helpful?

Here are some of the top questions about herpes treatments.

How do you get rid of herpes right away?

There is no cure for herpes. It will take time to reduce herpes symptoms. However, a person can speak with a doctor to get antiviral medication to help reduce the severity of a person’s symptoms within a few days. A person should try to begin treatment within 24 hours of the symptoms beginning.

Can herpes be cured without treatment?

No. There is no cure for herpes, and treatment does not eliminate the virus from the body. Treatment can help reduce symptoms but cannot eliminate the risk of spreading herpes to other people.

What triggers herpes outbreaks?

According to a 2018 article, the initial outbreak of genital herpes is usually the result of skin contact, normally during sexual activity, including oral sex. Further outbreaks occur due to having multiple sexual partners, stress, sunlight, colds, menstruation, and wearing tight clothes.

The American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD) writes that cold sores can occur due to stress, fatigue, colds, flu, strong sunlight, and menstruation.

What happens if herpes goes untreated?

The first outbreak of genital herpes can be the most severe and can cause complications such as vaginal yeast infections, urinating problems, and meningitis.

Treatment may not be necessary for subsequent outbreaks, but anyone experiencing very regular or severe outbreaks should speak with a doctor about preventive treatment.

How long do herpes sores last?

According to The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologists, an initial herpes outbreak may last 2–4 weeks. During this time, blisters will form, break, and release fluid. Toward the end of the 4 weeks, these blisters will heal.

Any further outbreaks tend to be shorter. People can expect blisters to last around 3–7 days.

HSV-1 and HSV-2 cause genital and oral herpes infections. There is currently no cure for herpes, and the infection will remain in a person’s system for life.

However, some medications can lower the frequency and severity of symptoms. Some home remedies, including compresses, vitamins, and certain oils, may work. Making dietary changes can also help.

Treatment of herpes in Moscow – Prices in the infectious diseases clinic – Methods of treatment of herpes infection

The frequency of virus reactivation is due to the ability of herpetic infections to remain in the human body for a long time in a latent state and enter the active phase under certain factors: an adjacent disease, weakened immunity, hypothermia, regular physical exertion, disproportionate to your state of health, etc.

Do not underestimate small herpetic rashes on the lips or skin. Usually, the symptoms disappear after the use of special ointments, but in order to cure the disease, it is recommended that after the appearance of a rash, you should consult an infectious disease specialist and be tested for herpes in order to differentiate the type of pathogen and exclude severe manifestations of the infectious process.

Herpes virus treatment methods

The main method of treatment of herpesvirus infections in adults and children is antiviral therapy. It is not effective if the virus exists in a latent (hidden) form in the CNS. The drugs for the treatment of herpes include acyclovir and its derivatives. The drug inhibits the synthesis of viral DNA and prevents the development of the infectious process. Topical application of acyclovir preparations is widely used for infections with the herpes simplex virus (HSV) in the case of labial manifestations (herpes on the lips, face, body, oral mucosa, shoulders, back).

With a favorable course of chickenpox, as a rule, specific therapy is not required. In addition, thanks to the development of an effective vaccine against this disease, the number of infected people is much less. An exception when antiviral therapy may be needed are complications of chickenpox, in particular, encephalitis. In this case, in addition to directly acyclovir, valaciclovir, famiciclovir or interferon preparations can be prescribed.

Infectious mononucleosis caused by herpesvirus type 4 infection (Epstein-Barr virus) suggests symptomatic treatment. Ganiciclovir has been successfully used for severe forms of cytomegalovirus.

The best treatment for herpes in men and women is a doctor-thought-out drug regimen based on the study of the symptoms of the disease, the results of the differential diagnosis of herpes infection and the patient’s immune status. You will get all this by contacting the H-Clinic Infection Clinic.

Prices for complex treatment of herpes in Moscow

The H-Clinic employs experts who specialize in infectious diseases. We regularly monitor new ways of treating herpes and apply in practice only methods of evidence-based medicine, which we select taking into account the characteristics of the patient’s health. Modern drugs can cope with the disease, improve the quality of life of the patient. But the main thing is that a timely course of treatment for acute or chronic herpes, control of relapses, especially during pregnancy and in the case of a positive HIV status, helps prevent the transmission of the virus, the development of severe complications and infection of the fetus during childbirth.

The terms of treatment of herpes with shallow lesions of the mucous membranes and skin, on average, are 5-7 days. Severe forms of the disease and internal herpes affecting the nervous system may require a longer period of therapy.

You can quickly cope with a herpes infection only under the supervision of a qualified doctor, following the recommendations and taking the prescribed drugs according to the scheme. Upon completion of the course of therapy, the presence of the virus in the patient’s body is monitored.

To clarify the cost of herpes treatment and sign up for an initial consultation with an infectious disease specialist, please call +7 (495) 191-11-40

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Doctors 10

Konnov Danila Sergeevich

Head of the infectious diseases department of the clinic, infectious diseases doctor, candidate of medical sciences

Shakhgildyan Vasily Iosifovich

Doctor-infectionist, doctor of the highest qualification category, candidate of medical sciences

Kanestri Veronika Gennadievna

Infectious disease doctor. MD

Stepanova Ekaterina Yurievna

Infectious disease specialist, therapist. PhD

Akobyan Jacqueline Artakovna

Infectious disease doctor, family doctor

Harbutli Marina Alexandrovna

Infectious disease specialist

Pushik Elena Pavlovna

Infectious disease doctor

Dushenok Anastasia Alexandrovna

Infectious disease specialist, parasitologist

Darbinyan Karine Simonovna

Infectious disease doctor

Makhmutov Yaroslav Igorevich

Infectious disease doctor

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Read about herpes viruses

Herpes vaccine

Herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2 infection is extremely common widespread on the planet. WHO estimates that 3.7 billion people under 50 years of age (67% of the total population) have herpesvirus type 1 infection, and 417 million (11%) aged 15-49 years are infected with herpesvirus type 2. Herpesvirus type 1 is transmitted mainly through oral contact, type 2 is more often transmitted sexually.

Genital herpes: how to recognize and where to treat

Genital herpes is a chronic viral infection that can be caused by herpes simplex viruses type I and II. Previously, it was believed that this infectious disease is caused only by the second type of virus, and the “cold” on the lips is the antics of the type 1 virus, but oral sex has changed our lives.

What, how and when appears on the skin – what to do about it?

The skin and mucous membranes are a whole vast world in which the unimaginable can happen.

Chickenpox

What do we know about chickenpox. And what about the wind parties.

Epstein-Barr virus infection: myths and reality

EBV is the most mysterious of herpesviruses. On the one hand, EBV infection is one of the most common in the world. On the other hand, not everyone can get sick.

Infections from oral sex

Many people believe that oral sex is much safer in terms of transmitting infections, but this is not the case.

How to remove herpes from the body forever. Rapid treatment of herpes

Date of publication: 06/08/2021

THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. SPECIALIST CONSULTATION IS REQUIREDFor immunityAntipyretic for adultsAnti-inflammatory dropsImmunity strengthening

0

• Causes of herpes and first symptoms
• Medicines for herpes
• Scientists in search of an effective remedy against herpes

Herpes, or herpes infection, is a disease caused by viruses of the Herpesviridae family. Science knows eight species, among which the most common Herpes simplex simple type: herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1, oral) and herpes simplex virus (HSV-2, genital).

The first – affects the lips and oral cavity, the second – the genitals and anus, which determines the methods of infection. HSV-1 is transmitted by airborne droplets, through kissing, personal hygiene or household items, HSV-2 through sexual contact, during childbirth or breastfeeding.

Once in the body, the virus remains in it forever. Therefore, it is impossible to get rid of herpes, but it is quite possible to prevent the progression of the disease if you follow certain hygiene rules, change your eating habits and use certain medications.

The causes of herpes and the first symptoms

The virus enters the body through the mucous membranes and respiratory tract to hide inside the host cell and become completely inaccessible to immune cells. Therefore, the latter are not able to fulfill their main function – to destroy the pathogen.

The disease may not manifest itself. Symptoms may occur due to the following factors:

• Weakened immunity after past illnesses, stress, sleep disturbances and physical exertion
• Hypothermia or overheating of the body, prolonged exposure to the wind
• Against the background of cold infections
• Injuries, surgical interventions
• The use of medicinal or cosmetic products based on steroid hormones.
• Hypovitaminosis, regardless of the season

Due to these factors, skin reactions characteristic of the disease appear on the face or genitals, which progress in the following order:

1. The affected area of ​​the skin becomes swollen and painful.
2. There is itching, burning, tingling.
3. Within 1-2 days, a dense infiltrate appears in this place, which turns into a bubble with a clear liquid (not one, but several rashes are possible).
4. A sore with a yellowish film forms in place of the ruptured vesicle, which gradually dries up.
5. The wound heals when the virus is deactivated.

The defeat of the oral cavity is accompanied by pain, which disappears appetite and thirst. Often, the temperature may rise, body aches or headaches may appear. Genital herpes, in addition to the listed symptoms, causes painful or difficult urination.

Relapses of HSV, which occur no more than 4-5 times a year, should not be of particular concern. But if more often, it is necessary to conduct a comprehensive examination, including PCR diagnostics. This will help to select the appropriate treatment and prevent the complication of the infection, which can lead to chronic fatigue, provoke oncological, nervous and immune diseases, cause decreased vision, the appearance of thorns and blindness. HSV-2 is the cause of infertility, miscarriage, fetal defects, stillbirth.

Medicines for herpes

In case of infection on the lips and body, complex therapy is used, which includes:

• Antiviral drugs that deactivate the virus, such as Acyclovir and its analogue Zovirax.
• Anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic to relieve pain and reduce fever (if needed).
• Immunostimulants aimed at activating the body’s defenses.
• Vitamin complexes.
• Special diet enriched with proteins, dairy products, vegetables, fruits and herbs.
• Drink plenty of water: herbal teas, fruit drinks, non-carbonated drinking water.

When answering the question of how to remove herpes from the body forever, many doctors agree that: intestines and weaken the immune system.

Scientists in search of an effective remedy against herpes

The herpes simplex virus (HSV) is recognized not only as a medical but also as a social problem, because according to WHO statistics, about 4 billion people under the age of 50 are active carriers of the virus. Therefore, scientists are faced with the task of finding a remedy that can defeat a herpes infection.

Dutch specialists from the Medical Institute of Utrecht University, working on the problem, came to the conclusion that herpes can be completely removed from the body with the help of genes, if the DNA chain of the virus is edited by breaks. Studies conducted on human and monkey cells showed that breaking the chain once, HSV activity is reduced by 50%, and if two, it disappears by 95% from the cells.

In parallel, this theory was confirmed by American scientists from the Department of Vaccines and Infectious Diseases at the Fred Hutchinson Center. They cut the DNA of the virus with two sets of genetic scissors (meganucleases), and proved that the DNA of the virus is regenerated using one pair. But having made an impact with two sets at the same time, the cell disintegrates, and the content of “sleeping” herpes in the body decreases to 8%, and such indicators persist for a month.