Herpes is a viral infection that affects many people. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and is contagious even if you don't see it. Although it most often forms on the lips or other areas of the face, in rare cases it can also develop inside the nose. There is no cure for the virus causing the infection, but you can treat lesions in the nose and manage the disorder by taking medication and preventing rashes from developing.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Treating Herpes in the Nose
Step 1. Check if you have herpes in your nose
Since it is quite difficult to see inside the nostrils, you need to figure out if it is actually this infection or some other problem, such as an ingrown hair or a pimple. Check the area inside the nose and around it for the type of injury.
- Use a mirror to check the visible surface of the nostrils. You probably won't be able to see much, but detecting just one lesion could help.
- Recognize symptoms of the infection, including tingling, itching, a burning sensation, a sore bump, or discharge from small blisters. You may also have a fever or a headache.
- See if the area inside or outside the nose is inflamed, as this could indicate herpes.
- Do not put your finger or other objects inside the nostrils. Even simple objects, such as a cotton swab, could get stuck in the nose, causing serious damage.
- See your doctor or leave the lesion undisturbed if you can't pinpoint the source of the pain.
Step 2. Let the ulcer heal on its own
If it's not particularly severe, you should wait for it to run its course without any special treatment. In many cases it clears up within a week or two, without the need for intervention.
Only use these types of treatments if you feel well and are certain you are not coming into contact with anyone. Remember that herpes in the nose is also contagious
Step 3. Gently wash the site of infection
Cleanse any herpes that forms in the nose when you notice it. Clean the area very carefully to avoid spreading the herpetic rash and stimulate healing.
- Use a cloth soaked in warm soapy water if the herpes isn't too deep inside the nostril. Before using the fabric again, be sure to machine wash it on a high temperature program.
- Heat a glass of water to a high but comfortable temperature so as not to burn the skin, and add an antibacterial solution. Dip the cotton swab into the mixture and gently place it on the herpes, as long as it is not too deep in the nasal cavity. Repeat the process 2-3 times a day.
Step 4. Take antiviral medications
Ask your doctor for a prescription for antivirals and take them. This way you can speed up the healing process, reduce the severity of relapses, and minimize the risk of passing on the infection.
- Among the most common drugs used to treat herpes are aciclovir (Zovirax), famciclovir (Famvir), and valaciclovir (Valtrex).
- Follow the directions given by your doctor for the right dosage in order to get the maximum effect.
- If the blister is severe, your doctor will recommend a stronger medication to fight the infection.
Step 5. Apply topical ointment
Since in this case the herpes is in the nose, it may not be very easy to apply it. Consider using this type of medication if you want to reduce the duration of the outbreak, relieve discomfort, or minimize the risk of passing the virus to other people. Ask your doctor about the best way to apply any of the following topical creams:
- Penciclovir (Vectavir);
- Docosanol 10% (Abreva), which can be purchased at a pharmacy without a prescription.
Step 6. Relieve itching and irritation with ointments
Herpes often causes these symptoms and you can apply a gel or cream based on lidocaine or benzocaine to reduce them. However, be aware that these treatments offer minimal and short-term relief.
- You can find these products in major pharmacies and parapharmacies.
- To apply them use a clean finger or a cotton swab - only if the herpes is not too internal in the nasal cavity.
Step 7. Find pain relief
The blister due to herpes can be painful; In addition to topical ointments, there are several other ways to minimize pain and discomfort.
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, for pain relief.
- You can also find relief by applying ice or a cold cloth to the outside of your nose.
Step 8. Consider alternative therapies
Some studies have reported conflicting data regarding the use of alternative methods to treat herpes. You can decide to rely on these procedures if you want to avoid chemicals, or you can combine them with drug therapies. Some of the workarounds that can be effective are:
- Lysine supplements or creams;
- Propolis, an ointment which can sometimes also be a synthetic beeswax;
- Stress reduction through breathing exercises and meditation;
- Ointment made from sage, rhubarb, or even a combination of both;
- Lip balm with lemon extract, if the lesions are not too deep inside the nose.
Part 2 of 2: Avoid Herpes Relapses
Step 1. Limit or avoid contact with other people's skin
Fluid leaking from the bladder can infect others. You must avoid the risk of infecting other people or aggravating your own situation.
- Refrain from oral sex and avoid kissing, even if the blister is only inside the nose.
- Keep your fingers and hands away from your eyes.
Step 2. Wash your hands often
Whenever you have a herpes outbreak, even if it's in your nose, you need to wash your hands before touching yourself or before coming into contact with other people. This way you avoid spreading the virus on your skin or that of others.
- Use any type of soap that can kill bacteria.
- Leave the soap on your hands for at least 20 seconds.
- When finished, dry them completely with a clean or disposable towel.
Step 3. Use only your personal items
When you have a herpetic outbreak, you must avoid sharing anything with other people; by doing so, you minimize the risk of spreading the virus to others or to other areas of your own body.
- When herpes is active you need to keep your utensils, towels and bedding separate.
- Do not use lip balm and other personal belongings of other individuals.
Step 4. Keep your nose clean
Bacteria can make you more vulnerable to herpetic outbreaks, and the nose is the first place where these microorganisms can develop. If you keep it thoroughly clean, you minimize the risk of infection.
- When you are sick, blow your nose into a tissue and throw it away.
- Don't pick your nose, as this could spread the bacteria or even introduce the herpes virus inside the nostrils.
Step 5. Address the problem of stress and fatigue
These two factors can induce a herpes outbreak. Try to handle stressful situations as best you can and make sure you get adequate rest.
- Set a flexible schedule when you plan your day and also include moments of relaxation to reduce stress.
- Avoid circumstances or situations that put you under pressure as much as possible.
- Take deep breaths or try breathing exercises to find calm.
- Exercise regularly, which is also helpful in relieving tension.
- Aim to sleep 7-9 hours a night.
Step 6. Check for symptoms of herpes outbreaks
If you start to manifest them, act promptly, so as to reduce their duration and severity.
