Genital herpes and me – my story

The first time I heard about genital herpes I was 23 and a friend of a friend had been diagnosed. She was devastated, I remember her crying about it in the pub and worrying about how she was going to tell her most recent partner. Our mutual friend, her housemate was concerned she might ‘catch’ herpes from her and saw it as something dirty. I didn’t know anything about herpes but I listened to her worries, didn’t judge and it was the start of a long friendship.

Then five years later I was 28, I had been in a relationship for four years and I was at home for Christmas with my family. I had been partying lots and was feeling run down. On the 29 December I started feeling ill, I had a temperature, really achy, and the glands in my groin were feeling swollen. My legs had been itchy for a few days but now the itch had spread to around my vagina. I knew something wasn’t right but I felt I couldn’t tell my parents so the next day I went back to Bristol. That day I felt a lot worse and I developed what looked like mouth ulcers on the skin around my vagina. They really hurt so I bathed them with warm water. I did the thing doctors tell you not to do and Googled my symptoms and from that was pretty sure I had herpes.

After a very uncomfortable night (having to sit in a warm bath to wee) I went to the sexual health centre in Bristol at 9am on New Years Eve. I felt at rock bottom. I filled in a form and got seen quickly. I explained my symptoms to the male doctor and he examined me. He and the nurse in the room were so kind and sympathetic. I was in a lot of pain and they made me feel at ease. Although my symptoms were consistent with herpes they couldn’t confirm the diagnosis until they got the results from the swabs they took. I remember the doctor saying that two out of three people have herpes and so that meant that either he or the nurse probably had it. It made me feel normal and that I was just unlucky to get symptoms. I was given some drugs and sent on my way.

I was quite upset by the diagnosis and worried about telling my boyfriend. I told him, and he was amazing. He was just upset that I was in pain and felt bad that maybe he might have contributed to it. There was no way of knowing who I had contracted it from as it can lie dormant but my partner occasionally suffered from cold sores so I did wonder if I had got it from oral sex. In which case at least I had fun getting it! A week later we were in Waitrose when I got the call from the sexual health clinic – they confirmed that I had HSV type 1. I remember they then listed all the others STIs I had been tested for – HIV was negative, syphilis negative etc etc. I remember feeling relieved that I just had herpes rather than another STI as it didn’t have any long term health impacts. Also after reading up about it I understood that you can still get it even if you use condoms. That made me feel better as I was feeling guilty about the times when I was younger and had had unprotected sex.

After that episode I didn’t get another herpes outbreak for about a year and that was so much milder and I knew what it was so it didn’t seem so scary. Telling my boyfriend that sex was off the cards because of herpes was fine (possibly because he was excited that might mean more blow jobs!).

It’s now eight years since my first episode and I’ve only had about five outbreaks in total. I went for years without one and had forgotten I have herpes but then last year I was a bit run down and stressed and had it twice in two months. It’s a good reminder to take care of myself but it’s mild enough now that it passes in a few days without taking medication. I am no longer with my boyfriend, I’ve had a few relationships since then however I’ve never felt compelled to tell a new partner about it. If I got symptoms in a relationship then yes of course I would. I’m careful with my sexual health, use condoms and have occasional STI tests. I’ve never had chlamydia or any other STIs.

I only told a few close friends at the time about it. I can remember some of them were quite shocked about it which I found a bit strange. I then became a bit sensitive to how people talked about herpes – there was a very promiscuous guy me and my university friends knew, he was a bit greasy and sleazy. I can remember people describing him as ‘looking like he has herpes’ – looking back I wish now I’d had the confidence to say ‘what like me?’. In recent years I’ve got really close to a new friend, and she confided in me that she has herpes. She was so relieved when I said I did too. We talk so openly about it and it really helps to normalise it. When we were messaging about it once it autocorrected to ‘heroes’ so that’s what we now call it.

I barely think about having herpes now. I tend to just think of it as I am someone who gets cold sores but instead of being on my face where everyone can see it they are in my knickers where I can hide them. I know what I would prefer!

Elisabeth,  Bristol – blogging about her experiences for The Havelock Clinic

If you need information about herpes visit your local sexual health service or the Herpes Virus Association  for advice and support. If you’d like to read more about coping with herpes read our blog ‘Genital herpes – what is there to worry about?’

Living with Herpes Stories and Tips

Sharing the experiences of other people with herpes can be invaluable, especially if you do not have a local support group or if you feel unable to confide in friends or family.

One of the most frequent requests from visitors to the site is for more shared experiences. We are always looking for these but, understandably, many people find this a big step to take.

Shared Experiences gives you the opportunity to hear from others, to tell your story or to simply share information that you feel may be helpful or informative to other visitors to the site.

Everyone has a story to tell. If you want to hear from others, it’s worth thinking that others may wish to hear from you. We certainly do!

If you would like to share your experiences with others, please contact us at [email protected], the AHF will then work with you to develop your story so that it can be easily and clearly understood by people all around the world, whatever language they speak. Please note that we may need to contact you, so please make sure that you provide us with an e-mail address. Bear in mind that we may need to discuss your story with you, so make sure you give us an address that is secure, or one where you feel comfortable to discuss your personal situation.

Rest assured:

• We will not publish your story without your permission.
• We don’t need to use your real name or provide any details that would identify you (we like to mention your country, though).
• While we do reserve the right to edit your story, this is purely to ensure that it is clear, internationally relevant and doesn’t cause offence.

• Lucy realizes that if you really care for someone you aren’t doing yourself any favors if you don’t tell them you have herpes
• David found that herpes doesn’t have to end relationships – it can have a positive effect
• Support from her family and partner make Jessie realize that Life Goes On!
• Positive thinking and a healthy approach keep Linda on top

Lucy realizes that if you really care for someone you aren’t doing yourself any favors if you don’t tell them you have herpes

I was diagnosed with herpes, 7 years ago, when I was 26. On becoming pregnant I decided to be tested for STDs and was shocked when I was told I had contracted herpes. The doctor who gave me the results counseled me. One of the main things she picked up was my total lack of concern for whether I had contracted the virus from my partner, whom I had been married to for four years, or vice versa. To me it didn’t matter – it was now a case of learning to live with it and making things as ‘normal’ as possible. My husband went for tests, which confirmed what we already knew – he also had the HSV-2 virus.

Over the following years we learnt to live with the virus. Fortunately I had very mild symptoms, but my husband suffered terribly with frequent, painful attacks. We put this down to the stress in his life but this was something he felt he could not change. When we decided to separate in 1999 (nothing to do with the herpes) we managed to remain terrific friends. It was hard leaving, knowing that we would both have to tell subsequent partners about the virus. This was something that terrified me as I was convinced that no one would want me.

Since separating I have always practiced safe sex, but the idea of telling someone I have the virus always stopped me taking a relationship to any serious level and I would finish it before it got to that stage.

I met a man just under a year ago through a herpes dating site PositiveSingles on the Internet. We were friends for a long time and then a few months ago decided to take it further. He has always told me that it’s ‘friends first’. He is the most nonjudgemental person I know. I knew in my heart that if I couldn’t tell him then I wouldn’t be able to tell anyone. So, having almost split up a number of times, I told him last Sunday. Having since read lots of articles on how to tell partners, I now know that I did it all wrong! It took ages for me to tell him and I’m sure by the end, he thought I was trying to finish our relationship. I just couldn’t get the word ‘herpes’ out of my mouth. After lots of tears the whole story came out – he was incredible. I think his words were ‘is that it?’ We talked a lot about how it affected me, how it would affect us and, to cut a long story short, he proved himself to be the kindest, sweetest man I think I know. He wanted me to find him material to read so that he could support me when things were horrible for me as well as to understand the implications for himself. I found this site and he has read through the information.

I have learnt a lot from my ‘friend’ – I have learnt that if it’s not the right person then it doesn’t feel right telling. If someone truly cares about you they will accept that you have this illness and be as concerned about the effect it has on you as the effect on them. Most importantly if you really care about someone and want things to progress, you are doing yourself a disservice if you don’t tell them – it is nothing to be ashamed of.

I don’t know where this relationship will go, but I know that he has taught me self-respect, to appreciate the good things about myself and that it’s alright to get close to someone and trust them – even with something like this.

I remain very good friends with my ex-husband and we support each other – he has been a rock for me also.

*Lucy’s name has been changed, to protect her privacy.

David found that herpes doesn’t have to end relationships – it can have a positive effect

My name is David*** and I am 24. I went out with my girlfriend Maria for two years and then one day we split up and went on to start new relationships. A year later, I left my new girlfriend and after a few months, I met up with Maria again. Gradually we started seeing one another again, but without starting a sexual relationship. Two weeks later, Maria said that she had something to tell me but that she couldn’t face it, so she brought me a letter. In this letter, she explained that her former partner was infected with herpes. He had been irresponsible and had hidden the fact that he had herpes. Even though he knew he was having an episode of herpes, he didn’t tell Maria. As a result, a couple of weeks later, Maria found out that she was infected with HSV-2. Of course, this was a difficult time for Maria – finding out that she was infected with a virus for which there is no cure, especially when it is all down to somebody who has been irresponsible. Not surprisingly, their relationship didn’t go much further!

Reading Maria’s letter raised a whole load of questions in my mind. I had heard about herpes and I had always been terrified of sexually transmitted infections. In spite of this, like most people, I had sometimes had unprotected sex. Now, with hindsight, I know that I have been lucky not to catch anything…

That night, I went home rather confused. I did some research on American Herpes Foundation and started to find out about herpes. Knowing the facts helped me to put things into perspective – after all, you don’t die of herpes! After two days of reflection, Maria and I decided to resume our relationship but we knew we needed to minimize the risk of transmission as much as possible. So, we learnt to use condoms when we had sex. I had never liked using them before but we got used to using them and even found them exciting! So, from the moment we decided to have a sexual relationship, we agreed that we would do everything possible to avoid transmitting the virus. But Maria still worried that she could pass on the virus, despite all our efforts.

Several months later, I noticed some blisters near my lip. A doctor’s appointment confirmed what I already suspected – I had herpes – but facial herpes! How did I feel when I was diagnosed? Well, I thought it was a shame, but I felt nothing! No sadness … no anger. From the day that we decided to start seeing each other again, I accepted the fact that I could be infected at any time. I was prepared for the worst.

Maria found it difficult to accept that she had transmitted the virus to me. She cried a great deal, whereas I never shed a single tear. She couldn’t understand why I wasn’t more upset. In fact, it was understandable – she had no choice in the matter – she had been infected by somebody almost deliberately whereas I had been informed and had accepted the consequences.

Nowadays, our relationship is going from strength to strength. Maria has learnt to stop feeling guilty and we have learned to live with the virus. I have discovered what it is like to have such an incredible relationship with another person!

So, to anyone who is reading this excerpt of my life story, rest assured that it is possible to learn to live with herpes. It is possible to meet people with herpes, to build a relationship despite herpes. In short, nothing is impossible just because you have herpes. Sometimes I do wonder if my relationship with Marie would be different if she hadn’t had herpes. I have never been the type of person who speaks openly about sexuality but the fact that we have herpes means that we do often discuss such matters, and as a result, we go on to talk openly about many other subjects. Our relationship is built on something much more solid. It is more intimate, more real. Marie doesn’t like it when I say this, but I actually believe that herpes has helped our relationship. The important thing is to be able to talk about it to your partner. I realize that people are afraid of broaching the subject but believe me, it is worth being honest with your partner – it can have all sorts of unexpected positive effects.

* David and Maria’s name have been changed to protect their anonymity.

Support from her family and partner make Jessie realize that Life Goes On!

Hi, my name’s Jessie. I am a 17-year-old girl that has just been diagnosed with genital herpes. I do not, consider myself promiscuous as I have only ever had one partner and he’s the one I caught it from. I had always heard about STDs but I was never really interested in them or found out much about them as I thought I would never get one. I always thought that it would be the girls in school who were rumored to have slept around who would get it. Not me…well that was then.

The guy I have been with had been with 15 partners, but he has had 3 tests for genital herpes and he said the results were negative. About 4 months ago we broke up after 9 months together. We stayed friends and he told me about a girl he liked. He later told me that they had had sex twice. I knew about this girl’s reputation and it wasn’t good so at the time I warned him about her. So when decided to get back together again last month, he had another test which of course came out negative, but I was still a little unsure.

About 2 weeks ago I started to develop blisters around my genitals and it burnt so badly when I passed urine I had to hold going to the bathroom for a day and a half. I finally went to the doctor and he explained to me what I had. I thought I was going to pass out! I had to tell my parents, but to my surprise they were really supportive. Yeah, they were a little aggravated about how I caught it, but my mother is now getting as much information as she can to help me and every day my father still tells me that I am his little princess.

When I phoned my boyfriend to tell him he was really mad, but as soon as I went to see him he just ran up to me and held me for what seemed to be forever. He cried with me when I was feeling down, but we have both made a pact that we can fight it together. Even though there is no cure there is always a chance that we can be healed. Even though I am new at this it makes me really realize what I took for granted. My outlook on life it so much better now and I am more fit and healthy than I ever was. People need to stop being so negative about this disease, and remember LIFE GOES ON!

*Jessie’s name has been changed, to protect her privacy

Positive thinking and a healthy approach keep Linda on top

My name’s Linda. I’m an average 22-year old woman, living in California, going to college and working part-time. I’ve been with the same man (who I’ll be marrying next year) for 2.5 years. I’ve never cheated on him and he’s never cheated on me. Before him, I’d slept with 5 other people, with all of whom I diligently practiced safe sex. I’m not wild, I don’t sleep around, I don’t fit the “profile”…yet, I was diagnosed 2 days ago with genital herpes.

My fiance gets cold sores on his lip. One night last week, there was this tiny little spot on his lip that we didn’t even give a second thought to before oral sex. Now that I’ve been diagnosed, I’ve given a lot of second thoughts to that little spot.

At first, and I know it hasn’t been long, I thought I should feel dirty or tainted, somehow not clean. I was, after all, now living with an STD. I did feel that way for a little bit but I don’t have it now. I have herpes. This will never go away. There is no cure. Even when I don’t have an outbreak (which I pray won’t be often), it will be lying dormant in my spine. I cannot control that. What I can control is my attitude towards this and how well I take care of my body. There is no point in being angry over something you can’t change.

I was very upset with myself for having oral sex that night. But I did have oral sex – it’s too late to change that. I refuse to live my life in anger. I accept that I have herpes now. I’ve researched what I can do to keep outbreaks from coming on. I’m already eating better than before I was diagnosed! It’s ironic that I’m probably going to be healthier now than before I was diagnosed with herpes.

I’m lucky in that my fiancé is very supportive. He doesn’t see this as a big thing. We just can’t have sex for a while, so he’s bummed. But he still loves me and he’s not going anywhere. I told my parents and they were very supportive also. I didn’t want to have to live with this alone. In a way, I’m lucky. Herpes isn’t going to kill me – it’s just going to be an inconvenience now and then. There are so many worse things that could have happened.

Right now I’m dealing with my first outbreak, the one they say is the worst. After this, I get to play the waiting game to see if and when I’ll get a recurrence. When I do, I’ll take my medication and be uncomfortable for a few days.

My life will go on. I’m a happy person, content with my life… and while my life is a little different now, I’m still content with it. Being diagnosed with herpes doesn’t make someone ‘unclean’. People who view someone living with herpes as dirty aren’t people worth knowing anyway. My advice to someone who’s feeling upset is be upset, but not at yourself and don’t be upset for long. Accept what you now have. Know that herpes does not define who you are. Be healthy. Be strong. You can deal with this.

*Linda’s name has been changed, to protect her privacy

the best remedies for the treatment of herpes

Contents

• 1 How to choose effective ointments and tablets for herpes: recommendations from doctors
  • 1. 1 Treatment of herpes: the choice of effective ointments and tablets
    • 1.1.1 Ointments for herpes 9 0010
    • 1.1.2 Tablets for herpes
    • 1.1.3 How to choose an effective remedy?
  • 1.2 Herpetic infection: what is it?
  • 1.3 Signs of herpes
  • 1.4 Treatment of herpes: effective methods
  • 1.5 Advantages of ointments for herpes treatment
  • 1.6 Effective herpes ointments: how to choose the right one
  • 1.7 Features of herpes tablets
  • 1.8 Best tablets for herpes treatment
  • 1.9 Guide Agent for antiviral tablets for the treatment of herpes
  • 1.10 Benefits of tablets before ointments for herpes
  • 1.11 Nuances of choosing ointments and tablets for the treatment of herpes
  • 1.12 Related videos:
  • 1.13 Question-answer:
    • • 1.13.0.1 How long does a cold sore treatment last?
      • 1.13.0.2 What is the best ointment for cold sores on the lips?
      • 1. 13.0.3 Can I take herpes tablets during pregnancy?
      • 1.13.0.4 Which drugs help against genital herpes?
      • 1.13.0.5 Is it possible to cure herpes forever?
      • 1.13.0.6 How to recognize herpes on the lips?

Find out which ointments and tablets are considered the most effective in the treatment of herpes. Overcome a herpetic infection quickly and painlessly with the help of modern drugs.

Herpes infection is one of the most common diseases that affects human skin and mucous membranes. It is caused by the herpes virus, which is transmitted through contact with affected skin or through household items.

As a rule, herpes is accompanied by unpleasant symptoms: the appearance of blisters on the skin, itching, redness and pain. In such a situation, it is necessary to take measures to treat the disease.

There are a large number of ointments and tablets on the market today for the treatment of herpes infections. However, which of them are the most effective and will help get rid of the problem faster?

Treatment of herpes: selection of effective ointments and tablets

Herpes infection is a disease caused by the herpes virus. It manifests itself in the form of rashes on the skin and mucous membranes. Although herpes is a virus, only the symptoms of the disease can be treated. One of the most effective remedies are ointments and tablets that accelerate healing and shorten the duration of the disease.

Herpes ointments

The best known remedy is Acyclovir ointment. The active substance has antiviral properties that allow you to quickly get rid of the symptoms of herpes. There are also other ointments: “Panivir” – based on motherwort extract, “Gerperaks” – with an extended spectrum of action.

Herpes Tablets

Tablets are the most effective way to fight herpes. Some of the most popular pills are Valtrex and Famvir. The active substances quickly and effectively kill the virus, and also suppress its reproduction. There are also other tablets: Zovirax, Cyclomed, Viropren.

How to choose an effective remedy?

The choice of a specific drug depends on the stage of the disease, the affected areas of the skin, as well as the characteristics of the patient’s body. To choose the most effective remedy, it is best to consult a doctor who will select the optimal course of treatment and advise on possible side effects.

Herpetic infection: what is it?

Herpes infection is a disease caused by the herpes virus. This virus can infect the skin, mucous membranes, eyes, and nervous system.

The herpes virus is transmitted from one organism to another through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes of an infected person, or through contact with objects that contain viruses. The virus can remain active in the external environment for a long time and infect people even with minimal contact with infected objects.

Herpes infection may present as genital herpes, sore lips, or herpes ocular inflammation. The disease is manifested primarily by a violation of the integrity of the skin and mucous membranes.

Signs of herpes

Herpes is a viral disease that manifests itself on the skin and mucous membranes. It can be recognized by several characteristic features.

• The appearance of watery blisters is the most obvious symptom of herpes. These blisters look like small, watery balls that can be painful to the touch.
• Burning and itching sensation on the skin – before the appearance of blisters on the skin, an uncomfortable burning and itching sensation on the skin may appear, which reminds that a herpes rash will soon begin to form on the body.
• Swelling and redness of the skin – The area where the blisters appear may swell, turn red and increase in temperature. This symptom of herpes can also be accompanied by soreness and discomfort.
• Aches, headaches and weakness – with herpes, especially in the early stages of the disease, the patient may experience a general very poor health, which manifests itself in the form of a headache, aches, muscle pain and weakness.

The main signs of herpes allow you to quickly determine the presence of the disease and begin its treatment. Herpes requires complex treatment, which may include both tablets and ointments, as well as folk remedies and procedures. The main thing is not to postpone the start of treatment until later in order to prevent the development of the disease.

Treatment of herpes: effective methods

Herpes is an infection that can manifest as cold sores, blisters or sores. And, as a rule, after the first infection, the virus is present in the body forever. But that doesn’t mean it can’t be controlled. There are various treatments that can be used to reduce symptoms and the frequency of flare-ups.

• Ointment is one of the most effective ways to treat herpes. The ointments contain antiviral agents that help reduce the duration and severity of herpes symptoms. Apply the ointment directly to the affected area of ​​the skin, usually twice a day for 5-10 days.
• Tablets – antiviral tablets are sometimes recommended for herpes flare-ups. The tablets help reduce the duration and severity of herpes symptoms, and reduce the frequency of flare-ups.
• Special attention to hygiene – it is important to maintain hygiene and avoid touching the affected area of ​​the skin. It is also necessary to wash your hands frequently to avoid infecting other areas of the skin or passing the infection on to other people.

These treatments for herpes help reduce the duration and severity of symptoms. But it is important to remember that the treatment of herpes should be aimed not only at eliminating the symptoms, but also at maintaining the immune system and a healthy lifestyle. This will help reduce the risk of flare-ups and prevent other health problems.

The benefits of ointments in the treatment of herpes

Ointments for herpes are one of the most effective dosage forms that allow you to quickly and effectively eliminate the manifestations of herpes infection.

The main advantage of ointments is that they are aimed directly at the affected area, providing rapid penetration into the skin and mucous membranes. They allow you to cope with severe itching and burning, reduce irritation and accelerate healing.

Herpes ointments contain special antiviral components that not only relieve symptoms, but also actively fight against the causative agent of the disease.

• The ointments are easy to apply and absorb quickly without leaving a sticky residue or causing discomfort to the patient.
• They do not cause side effects and do not have a systemic effect on the body as a whole.
• Some ointments have additional properties that help restore the skin, improve its color and eliminate minor defects.

The use of ointments for herpes facilitates the treatment process, reduces the risk of relapses and allows you to quickly recover from the disease.

Effective herpes ointments: how to make the right choice

Herpes infection is a common phenomenon that not only causes discomfort and pain, but also spoils your mood for a long time. In modern pharmacology, there are several ointments that help to quickly deal with herpes.

Virex is one of the most effective ways to treat herpes. It has a direct antiviral effect, anesthetizes and promotes the healing of the tongues. However, it should be borne in mind that Virex is a rather expensive remedy.

Aciclovir is an ointment whose main active ingredient is aciclovir. The tool prevents the reproduction of the virus and increases the body’s immunity. Although this medicine is considered universal, it is not always indicated for use, and also requires regular use.

• Zovirax
• Fenistil-pencevir
• Proseptin heavy drinking of green tea and liquid honey squeezed from elderberry. But do not self-medicate and look for considerations on the forums. It is better to consult an infectious disease doctor who will prescribe the best treatment and explain how to take certain ointments.

  Features of herpes tablets

  Herpes tablets are one of the most effective remedies for the treatment of this disease. They allow you to quickly stop the development of the virus and reduce the symptoms of a herpes infection.

  A feature of the tablets is the fact that they act not only on the superficial manifestations of herpes, but also on the virus itself, blocking its development. Therefore, such drugs can achieve a long-term remission of the disease, provided that they are used correctly and in a timely manner.

  It is important to remember that herpes tablets have individual properties, since they are used only in the context of a certain form of the disease, its severity and the patient’s condition. Therefore, before using them, you should consult a doctor and read the instructions.

  • The dosage of tablets should be appropriate for the age, weight and health of the patient. Exceeding the dose can lead to side effects, including toxicity and possible liver damage.
  • The duration of the tablets must also be in accordance with the instructions. Regardless of how well the patient feels, stopping the pills prematurely will likely result in a return of symptoms and continued progression of the disease.
  • Interactions with other drugs – Before starting herpes tablets, you should consult your doctor about the concomitant use of other drugs, as this may lead to unwanted interactions.

  The best pills for herpes treatment

  Herpes infection can lead to skin, mucous membrane and eye disease, as well as painful sores and pimples. To combat herpes, preparations of various forms are used – ointments, tablets, creams and solutions for external use.

  One of the most effective remedies for herpes is acyclovir tablets. Acyclovir is an antiviral drug that kills the herpes virus and helps get rid of its symptoms. Usually, acyclovir tablets are prescribed to patients with frequent recurrences of herpes and severe forms of infection.

  Another effective tablet is valaciclovir. It is also an antiviral drug that works against the herpes virus. However, valaciclovir has a longer duration of action than acyclovir and is less likely to cause side effects. The drug is intended to treat a herpes infection and prevent its recurrence.

  • Aciclovir is an antiviral drug that kills the herpes virus and helps relieve symptoms.
  • Valaciclovir has a longer duration of action than aciclovir and is less likely to cause side effects.

  When considering effective ointments and tablets for herpes infection, it is necessary to take into account the individual characteristics of the organism, the degree of development of the disease and other factors. The need for a specific drug and dosage should be discussed with an infectious disease specialist or dermatologist.

  Guide to antiviral tablets for herpes

  Herpes or herpes infection is a viral disease that manifests itself as rashes on the skin or mucous membranes. Herpes often causes pain, itching and discomfort.

  Herpes antiviral tablets are an effective way to fight the virus. They relieve symptoms, shorten the duration of the disease and help prevent relapses.

  • Aciclovir is one of the most commonly used herpes treatments. Its action is aimed at suppressing the virus, which allows you to stop the reproduction of the infection.
  • Famciclovir is an effective broad spectrum drug used to treat all types of herpes.
  • Valaciclovir is a tablet for the treatment of herpes that not only relieves symptoms but also prevents re-infection.

  It is important to remember that antiviral tablets for the treatment of herpes should only be prescribed by a doctor. Self-medication can lead to undesirable effects and worsen health conditions.

  Drug	Dose	Duration of administration
  Aciclovir 9027 3	200-800 mg three to five times a day	5-10 days
  Famciclovir	250- 500 mg twice daily	5-10 days
  Valaciclovir	500-1000 mg twice daily	5-10 days

  9007 0 Advantages of tablets over ointments for herpes

  The main advantage of tablets over ointments for herpes is the effect on the whole body, and not just on the affected area. Ointments work locally, only in the affected area. Tablets enter the bloodstream and are transported throughout the body, preventing the development of herpes in other parts of the body. Also, pills help strengthen the immune system, which is often the main factor against herpes.

  The second advantage is ease of use. Tablets do not require constant reuse, one or more tablets per day is sufficient. Ointments, for example, must be used up to 5 times a day, which requires more time, attention and money to buy.

  The tablets can also reduce the risk of recurrent cold sores when taken regularly. As a rule, medicines in tablets act for a longer period of time than ointments. Their continued use can lead to a significant improvement in health and reduce the risk of recurrence of a herpes infection.

  However, attention should be paid to the possible side effects of tablets, such as headaches, nausea and diarrhea, which cannot always be prevented. Before you start taking herpes pills, you should consult your doctor and analyze all possible risks and side effects.

  The nuances of choosing ointments and tablets in the treatment of herpes

  Herpes infection is an unpleasant disease that leads to the appearance of painful blisters on the skin or mucous membranes. For the treatment of herpes, special ointments and tablets are used that have an antiviral effect and accelerate the healing process.

  When choosing ointments and tablets, it is important to consider several factors. First, you need to pay attention to the composition of the funds and choose drugs that contain substances that are effective against a specific type of herpes virus. Secondly, it is necessary to take into account the form of manifestation of the disease and choose the necessary forms of release.

  It is important to remember that ointments and tablets can cause side effects such as allergic reactions, nausea or headache. Therefore, before starting treatment, it is recommended to consult with your doctor.

  • Some popular herpes ointments are Zovirax, Acyclovir, Panovir, Fenistil and Valtrex.
  • Herpes tablets: Aciclovir, Valtrex, Famvir, Famciclovir and others.

  The treatment of herpes infection is a process that requires careful and competent approach. Properly selected ointments and tablets will help speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of relapses.

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  Q&A:

  How long does the treatment for herpes last?

  The duration of treatment for herpes depends on which drug is used and what stage of the infection the patient is in. On average, the course of treatment is from 5 to 14 days.

  What is the best ointment for cold sores on the lips?

  There are many effective ointments for herpes, but Acyclovir ointment is considered the most popular and effective. It quickly relieves inflammation and itching, promotes rapid healing of rashes.

  Can I take herpes pills during pregnancy?

  For pregnant women, it is recommended to use drugs based on Acyclovir or Valaciclovir. But you should take any medication during pregnancy only on the advice of a doctor.

  What drugs help against genital herpes?

  Genital herpes is usually treated with drugs based on Acyclovir, Famciclovir or Valaciclovir. But the choice of the drug and the course of treatment should be prescribed by the doctor after examining the patient.

  Is it possible to cure herpes forever?

  Currently, there are no drugs that can cure herpes permanently. Drugs only help control symptoms and speed up the healing of rashes. But good hygiene and a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of recurrence.

  How to recognize herpes on the lips?

  Herpes on the lips appears as a rash of blisters, often accompanied by itching and tingling in the area of ​​the lips. Opened bubbles become crusts, which then fall off. In case of doubt, it is better to consult a dermatologist.

  Popular myths about herpes

  Checking the myths

  06/28/22

  Aigul Galiakhmetova

  dealt with the myths about herpes

  Author profile

  The herpes simplex virus is one of the most common human viruses: up to 90% of people have encountered it.

  It causes oral herpes affecting the skin of the face, lips, mouth or throat and genital herpes with eruptions in the genital area and perineum. There are two varieties of this virus: type 1, or HSV-1, and type 2, HSV-2.

  In the article, we will analyze popular myths about herpes: how dangerous this infection is, whether it can be cured, and whether it is worth being tested for the virus.

  Go see a doctor

  Our articles are written with love for evidence-based medicine. We refer to authoritative sources and go to doctors with a good reputation for comments. But remember: the responsibility for your health lies with you and your doctor. We don’t write prescriptions, we give recommendations. Relying on our point of view or not is up to you.

  Myth No. 1

  If a person has no manifestations of the disease, then he does not have herpes
  

  The herpes virus enters the human body through the mucous membranes of the mouth, upper respiratory tract, eyes, and genital organs. After some time, symptoms of the disease may appear.

  Herpes – NHS UK

  Genital Herpes – CDC Fact Sheet

  Infection with the herpes virus type 1 often develops stomatitis or pharyngitis with fever. With genital herpes, painful rashes appear on the genitals.

  Then the symptoms disappear, but this does not mean that the virus has disappeared from the body. Herpes viruses remain in the nerve nodes, where they are inaccessible to the immune system. Under adverse conditions, for example, when the body is weakened by a disease, the virus is activated and causes repeated rashes. True, the following exacerbations are usually not as severe as the first episode of infection.

  A person is usually contagious as long as he has symptoms of the disease. However, sometimes herpes can be transmitted even when there are no symptoms – this is especially true for genital herpes.

  How to improve immunity

  This is what herpes looks like. On the upper lip there are characteristic rashes in the form of bubbles with transparent contents. Source: Levent Konuk / Shutterstock

  Myth No. 2

  Type 1 herpes occurs only on the lips, and type 2 only on the genitals
  

  HSV-1 is more likely to cause oral herpes, while HSV-2 causes genital herpes. However, this is not always the case.

  Herpes – American Dermatological Association

  For example, oral sex can transmit the herpes virus type 1 from the mouth to the partner’s genitals – and he will develop genital herpes. Or vice versa: the second type of herpes virus from the genitals can get to the mucous membranes of the mouth.

  A person can also infect himself by transferring viruses with his hands from the surface of the lips to the mucous membranes of the genital organs, or vice versa.

  Myth No. 3

  Herpes can easily be contracted through household items
  

  The main route of transmission of both genital and oral herpes is contact. Infection occurs when two people come into close contact with mucous membranes. This usually happens when kissing or during sex.

  Herpes – Mayo Clinic

  Genital Herpes – Mayo Clinic

  Is it possible to get herpes through the toilet seat – Mayo Clinic

  Herpes can also be transmitted through touch. For example, this happens when an adult touched the rashes on the lips, and then, without washing his hands, immediately touched the mucous membranes of the child. In the same way, you can transfer the infection from the lips to the eyes or genitals.

  Herpes simplex virus type 1 can theoretically be transmitted when people share objects. This can be dishes, lip balm and other personal items, but only if they are used immediately after each other – that is, while they have fresh discharge from the vials. The virus dies quickly, and after a while it will no longer be possible to become infected. At the same time, the risk is higher when there is damage on the skin or mucous membranes of a healthy person.

  Genital herpes is not transmitted through objects: neither through the toilet seat nor through shared towels, as the virus quickly dies in the environment. However, it can be transmitted through sex toys if they are exchanged with each other during sex.

  16 HIV myths you shouldn’t believe

  Myth No. 4

  For diagnosis, you need to donate blood for antibodies to herpes viruses
  

  Most people become infected with herpes at some point in their lives, often during childhood. The immune system, after contact with the virus, produces antibodies to it, which can circulate in the blood for life.

  Diagnosis of herpes type 1 – Uptodate

  Epidemiology, clinic and diagnosis of genital herpes – Uptodate

  There is nothing to worry about, it is not necessary to treat such a person for herpes. Also, the presence of antibodies does not always confirm the diagnosis, even if there are rashes on the skin or mucous membranes, because they can be caused by other reasons.

  A blood test for antibodies to herpes simplex viruses is usually used when it is necessary to determine whether a person has met them before or not. For example, such an analysis is done for immunocompromised people who are waiting for a bone marrow transplant. If the test is positive, it means that before transplantation, you need to take a course of antiviral prophylaxis. This will reduce the risk of severe complications caused by the awakened herpes virus.

  An analysis for antibodies to genital herpes is also indicated if there were rashes on the genitals before, and now you need to find out their cause. Another indication is the examination of the partner of an infected person. If a partner does not have antibodies, then he is at risk of becoming infected during sex, you need to take protection more seriously.

  10 important questions to infectious disease specialist Danila Konnov about contagious diseases and vaccines

  Pregnant women must donate blood for antibodies to herpes viruses. Herpes simplex viruses are classified as infections that are dangerous for an unborn child if the mother first became infected during pregnancy.

  A pregnant woman or a woman planning a pregnancy without antibodies to HSV-1 and HSV-2 is at risk, because she can become infected just during the period of bearing a child.

  To diagnose a herpes infection, not a blood test for antibodies is used, but PCR. This technique is the gold standard for helping clinicians make an accurate diagnosis. It allows you to detect particles of virus DNA in blood, secretions from vesicles or other biological fluids.

  How much does a PCR test cost

  But a PCR test for herpes is also not always needed. With rashes on the skin, mucous membranes of the mouth, eye damage, the doctor often makes a diagnosis immediately after the examination.

  But if you suspect genital herpes, the doctor will definitely take an analysis. They do this because there are other sexually transmitted infections with similar rashes. In addition, genital herpes does not always manifest itself in the form of classic vesicles on the skin.

  PCR testing of blood is done if the doctor thinks of a herpes infection involving internal organs, such as herpes hepatitis. In some cases, they can also examine the cerebrospinal fluid – the fluid that surrounds the spinal cord and brain.

  Myth No. 5

  Herpes can be cured once and for all
  

  There is currently no way to completely remove herpes viruses from the body. Antiviral drugs prescribed by doctors can only relieve symptoms or make exacerbations less frequent.

  Treatment and prevention of a herpes simplex virus type 1 in immunocompetent adolescents and adults – Uptodate

  Oral herpes treatment – an article for patients on UpTodate

  Genital herpes treatment – article for patients on Uptodate

  Oral herpes. At the first manifestation of an infection, almost everyone needs treatment. The first episode is usually the most severe, may be accompanied by severe pain, fever, and poor health. The doctor prescribes one of the antiviral drugs, such as Acyclovir.

  Relapses are usually mild and do not require tablets.

  Gels and ointments can also be applied to the affected areas to relieve pain and discomfort. Such local remedies do not affect the virus at all, but they help to endure the exacerbation more easily. Local antiviral drugs will also not make the exacerbation shorter: there is no point in applying them to the rashes.

  Genital herpes usually flares up more often than oral herpes. If flare-ups occur more than six times a year, your doctor may prescribe long-term antiviral therapy. It suppresses the activity of the virus, which means that the symptoms of the infection will appear less frequently. Such therapy may also be needed for people with a weakened immune system, for example, with HIV infection.

  Other ways to fight herpes do not work, including traditional medicine methods. No herbs and supplements help remove the virus from the body, nor do they affect its activity.

  In addition, do not cauterize the rash with alcohol or other aggressive antiseptics. This will not help to destroy the herpes virus, but you can additionally damage the skin and mucous membranes.

  A large number of supplements and topical remedies are being promoted on social media claiming to help fight the herpes virus. But only the ingestion of antiviral drugs can affect it, and it is completely impossible to cure it yet

  Myth No. 6

  Herpes weakens the immune system

  Herpes simplex infections are more severe in immunocompromised people, such as people with HIV infection. In them, HSV-1 and HSV-2 more often cause not only rashes on the mucous membranes, but also damage to the brain, liver, and lungs.

  Herpes Simplex Virus – MSD Handbook

  How Herpes Hides – Freethink article

  However, there is no reliable evidence that herpes weakens the immune system or negatively affects immunity in the long term.

  On the contrary, there is a study showing that the presence of the herpes virus enhances the body’s defense against a number of bacterial infections. True, they conducted it on mice and studied not herpes simplex viruses, but their relative from the same family – cytomegalovirus.

  6 ways to strengthen your immune system and not go broke

  Myth No. 7

  Genital herpes can cause infertility

  Herpes simplex viruses can cause miscarriage or preterm birth if a woman first becomes infected during pregnancy.

  Genital Herpes and Pregnancy – American Dermatological Association

  They can also cause severe infection in a newborn baby when it is contracted from the mother during birth. This usually happens when a woman has rashes on her genitals.

  However, there is no evidence that herpes infection affects fertility. Genital herpes can only indirectly prevent a woman from getting pregnant: during periods of exacerbation, unprotected sex is not recommended.

  There is a study showing that men infected with herpes have fewer sperm in their semen. But this does not mean infertility, in addition, only 70 sperm samples were studied in the study.

  15 important questions to reproductologist Dmitry Kholodov about infertility and IVF

  Myth No. 8

  For genital herpes, a caesarean section is always indicated in a pregnant woman

  A newborn baby can become infected with the herpes virus during childbirth. This happens when it comes into direct contact with a virus secreted from the mucous membranes of the vagina, cervix, vulva. The risk is higher if a woman becomes infected during pregnancy.

  Genital Herpes – The Lancet

  Genital Herpes and Pregnancy – Uptodate

  If a pregnant woman has herpes, she is given antiviral therapy.