Herpes is caused by the herpes simplex virus. Once the virus enters the body, it stays there forever, hidden in the roots in the nerves. When the immune defenses (the body's ability to fight infections) are reduced, it causes rashes. Ulcers usually heal in a couple of weeks, but there are a few methods you can try to speed up healing, such as leaving them exposed to air, asking your doctor for medications, and using ointments. There are also precautions you can take to reduce and prevent breakouts, such as limiting prolonged sun exposure, reducing friction during sex, and managing stress.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Treating the breakouts
Step 1. Leave the ulcers exposed to air
While it may seem like a good idea to cover them with a bandage, this treatment slows healing. The best way to recover from a herpes quickly is to leave it exposed to the air and wait for it to run its course.
If you have genital herpes, wear loose clothing and underwear so that those areas are more ventilated
Step 2. Do not touch the ulcers
Scratching them can cause infections, increasing the time it takes to heal. Stop when you notice that you are scratching an ulcer. Leave her alone and she will heal much faster.
If your ulcers are itching or burning, relieve symptoms with ice or a cold compress
Step 3. Schedule a visit to the doctor
If you have frequent or occasional herpes outbreaks, you should ask your doctor what treatment options are. Although herpes cannot be cured, there are medications that make the condition more tolerable. Some medicines can reduce the severity and duration of breakouts, while others can prevent them and reduce their frequency.
Step 4. Ask your doctor about antiviral medications
These medicines help treat herpes when the first signs of a rash appear. Ask your doctor if he can get you a prescription to use if you experience symptoms of the rash and can't contact him. The most commonly prescribed antiviral drugs are aciclovir, famciclovir and valaciclovir.
Follow your doctor's orders and take medications as directed. Do not exceed the recommended dose
Step 5. Ask your doctor for topical ointment for ulcers
There are various over-the-counter herpes ointments, but you should ask your doctor for more information before choosing one. If you have genital herpes, you may need an ointment that requires a prescription.
Consider using propolis ointment. In one study, propolis ointments were shown to be more effective than those with acyclovir. In particular, people who used this ointment 4 times a day testified that their ulcers healed faster than with antiviral treatment
Step 6. Schedule a follow-up visit with your doctor to assess the outcome of the treatment
Once you have been taking an antiviral medication for a few months, it is a good idea to go back to the doctor to see if the therapy is working. If you don't get the desired results, your doctor may suggest a different solution.
Method 2 of 2: Preventing Future Outbreaks
Step 1. Reduce prolonged sun exposure
If you have oral herpes, a rash is more likely to appear after spending a lot of time in the sun. Consequently, reduce the chances of a rash by avoiding direct sunlight.
Try to stay in the shade or wear a wide-brimmed hat when you are outdoors for a long time
Step 2. Use a water-based lubricant during sex
The friction produced during sexual intercourse can cause a rash. To reduce this, use a water-based lubricant. Also, always use condoms if you have genital herpes, otherwise you run the risk of passing the virus to your partner.
- Do not use oil-based lubricants or lubricants that contain nonoxynol-9 spermicide as an ingredient. Oil-based products can weaken condoms, while nonoxynol-9 can irritate mucous membranes.
- Don't have sex when you have an ongoing rash. Herpes is most contagious during breakouts, so it's best to avoid sexual intercourse altogether when ulcers are present.
Step 3. Find ways to manage stress
Stress is a common cause of herpes outbreaks, so managing it is key. Consider signing up for a yoga class, doing deep breathing exercises throughout the day, learning to meditate, or taking regular relaxing baths. Find ways to relax and minimize stress to prevent breakouts. Other methods of controlling stress include:
- Get more physical activity. Exercising helps you stay healthy and manage stress. Aim for at least 30 minutes of medium-intensity physical activity every day.
- Eat better. A balanced diet helps you feel better and reduce stress. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables and avoid junk foods.
- Get more sleep. Sleep deprivation can contribute to increased stress. Make sure you sleep at least 7 hours straight every night.
- Don't isolate yourself. Talking to someone when you feel overwhelmed by life can help reduce your stress levels. Call a friend when you are feeling stressed.
Step 4. Try adding lysine to your diet
This amino acid is used to prevent and treat cold ulcers. It works by blocking the action of arginine (which favors the multiplication of the herpes virus). You can take lysine when you have a rash or before symptoms appear.
- Talk to your doctor before deciding to use lysine as a supplement, especially if you have kidney disease, are pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Follow the directions on the package if you decide to take a lysine supplement.
