Cold sores come by many different names including fever blisters, herpes simplex type 1 and herpes labialis but they are never welcome. They can be painful, embarrassing and socially disruptive. There is little dispute that herpes or cold sores are painful and unpleasant to look at. By exploring various cold sore remedies and treatments, you will be able to determine what is the best over the counter treatment for herpes that fits your needs to heal quickly and effectively.
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What is the best over the treatment for herpes
1. What Is The Best Over The Counter Treatment For
Herpes
What Are Herpes?
Herpes, also called oral herpes, fever blisters and cold sores, is a viral
infection that causes blisters around the mouth and lips. Herpes simplex is
a virus that affects one in every four adults in the U.S. There are two types
of herpes simplex virus, herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes
simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Herpes simplex type 1 causes cold sores
while Herpes simplex type 2 can result in liver inflammation, fever and
genital herpes outbreaks. There is no known cure for herpes; however,
certain measures may help suppress the herpes simplex virus and reduce
the frequency of outbreaks.
Oral herpes causes sores and blisters on the lips and gums and in the
mouth—typically referred to as cold sores. Oral herpes is very common and
can be spread by kissing or oral sex. It is usually caused by HSV-1. Herpes
simplex is a highly contagious virus with no cure. Fifty to 80 percent of
Americans get cold sores, which are caused by herpes simplex type 1.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, about
one in six people aged 14 to 49 have genital herpes, which is caused by
herpes simplex type 2. Luckily, there are home remedies to help with
herpes outbreaks. Most importantly, you need to live a healthy lifestyle. If
you're looking for a natural way to get rid of herpes and want to know
what is the best over the counter treatment for herpes then continue to
read.
What Causes Herpes Outbreaks?
Medical experts still don't know what causes Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV)
outbreaks to reactivate but some common physical triggers include
drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, prolonged fatigue, sun exposure,
injury to the skin, other genital infections or other circumstances in which
the immune system is weakened. Studies indicate that extended periods of
2. stress are linked to more frequent herpes outbreaks, as well as stress
associated with the outbreaks themselves.
The Signs and Symptoms of Herpes
Genital Herpes can be hard to diagnose because the symptoms are similar
to those of other sexually transmitted diseases, or they may be too mild to
notice. Many people infected with Herpes Simplex Virus never know they
have the disease or they mistake it for a yeast infection, jock itch or other
conditions. If you do suspect you have gential herpes, be sure to see a
doctor. Here are some common signs of herpes and herpes outbreak
symptoms:
Skin Sensitivity, Pain or Itching
This usually occurs on one side of the body in the genital area. This
symptom can begin within a few days or weeks from exposure.
Swollen Lymph Nodes and Flu-Like Symptoms
The initial outbreak of HSV is usually the worst occurrence of the disease.
People can experience swollen lymph nodes in the groin area and flu-like
symptoms such as headache, fever and muscle aches.
Small Red Bumps
Several days after the herpes outbreak symptoms described above happen,
red sores can appear that are often mistaken for pimples, ingrown hairs or
insect bites. In men, the sores can appear on the scrotum, buttocks, penis,
anus or thighs. In women, the sores can appear on the genitals, buttocks,
vaginal area or anus.
Ulcers
The bumps eventually will rupture and may bleed or ooze. They will form
scabs and heal after two to four weeks.
Painful Urination
3. In men, sores can also form inside the urethra—the channel inside the
penis that leads to the bladder. This may make urination painful.
Lack of Urination
In women, urine retention (losing the ability to urinate) can be another
sign of HSV infection. Be sure to see a doctor or go to the emergency room
if this happens and your bladder pressure is becoming uncomfortable.
Urine retention can lead to bladder and kidney problems if not addressed.
Recurrences
After clearing up, herpes sores can reappear when your immune system
gets stressed. The good news is that herpes outbreak symptoms during
recurrence are usually milder and clear up in 2 to 12 days. Triggers for
recurrences of herpes outbreaks symptoms can include:
-fatigue and sleep interruptions
-menstruation
-emotional or physical stress
-illness
-surgery
-immune system suppression from medication
-friction in the genital area from tight clothing or sexual intercourse
Most Common Locations of Herpes
Herpes infection causes painful, itchy ulcers and blisters. It is very common
and very easily spread. Although symptoms of herpes infections can be
very painful and pronounced, most individuals are asymptomatic and have
no idea that they are infected.
Lips
4. Herpes labialis infects the lips and mouth. It usually results from infection
with herpes simplex type 1, but HSV-2 can cause herpes labialis from oro-
genital contact. The initial outbreak usually occurs within one to three
weeks after exposure to the virus.
Genitals
Genital herpes is a sexually transmitted disease transferred from one
person to another through sexual contact. During an outbreak, a person
may experience visible symptoms, such as a sore; however, genital herpes
may be transferred without any visible signs or symptoms, or when there is
no outbreak. Genetal herpes infections are usually caused by exposure to
herpes simplex virus type 2 during sexual contact. However, HSV-1 can
also cause genital lesions from oro-genital contact. The primary outbreak
of genital herpes generally occurs within two weeks of exposure.
Fingers
Herpes infections of the fingers are known as herpetic whitlow. These
occur from touching active genital or oral lesions when there is a break in
the skin. Herpes infections are spread easily, and herpetic whitlow often
results from scratching the itchy ulcers.
How Do People Get Herpes?
The herpes simplex virus is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that
causes painful blisters and sores. The contagious virus spreads via direct
contact between people. The transmission occurs either through skin-to-
skin contact or with the exchange of infected bodily fluids. There is no cure
for the herpes virus. The most common areas for the sores to occur are on
the lips and the genitals due to herpes virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes
virus type 2 (HSV-2) respectively.
Sexual Contact
Sexual contact spreads HSV-1 from person to person, most often through
sexual contact. Sexual intercourse without a condom increases the risk of
5. contracting the herpes virus because of the direct skin-to-skin contact and
the exchange of bodily fluids. The virus also spreads through episodes of
sexual outercourse, or direct skin contact through rubbing the genitals
together without clothing between the partners. The virus can spread even
without any sores or blisters present on the genitals of the infected
individual.
Oral Contact
The HSV-2 causes cold sores on the mouth and lips. This virus infects over
half of adults in the United States by the second decade of life. The virus
transmits easily from person to person by direct contact with the skin and
saliva through kissing. The oral herpes virus can also spread to the genitals
through oral sex with an infected partner, while the genital herpes virus
can also spread from the genitals of an infected partner to the mouth of
the partner.
Autoinoculation
An individual can spread both herpes viruses to other parts of the body,
what's called autoinoculation. Touching a herpes sore on one location on
the body and not washing the hands allows the virus to transfer to
additional locations. The virus can spread from the mouth to the genitals,
the genitals to the mouth and from either to the eyes.
Mother to Child
Mothers can transfer the herpes virus to their child during the birthing
process. A newborn immune system cannot handle the herpes virus, and
an infection can make the baby extremely sick. According to the Mayo
Clinic, taking special precautions such as suppressive therapy during the
final months of pregnancy and having a cesarean section for women with
active sores helps decrease the chances of transmission to the baby.
How Can Herpes Be Prevented?
6. Correct and consistent use of latex condoms can reduce the risk of genetal
herpes, because herpes symptoms can occur in both male and female
genital areas that are covered or protected by a latex condom. However,
outbreaks can occur in areas that are not covered by a condom. The surest
way to avoid transmission of sexually transmitted diseases, including
gential herpes, is to abstain from sexual contact.
Persons with herpes should abstain from sexual activity with partners when
sores or other symptoms of herpes are present. It is important to know
that even if a person does not have any symptoms, he or she can still
infect sex partners. Sex partners of infected persons should be advised that
they may become infected and they should use condoms to reduce the
risk.
Foods That Help Prevent Genital Herpes Outbreaks
While there is no cure for genital herpes, with proper treatment you may
control the severity and duration of an outbreak. Along with medication
prescribed by your physician, certain foods may be able to help prevent a
genital herpes outbreak.
Lysine-Rich Foods
A diet with foods rich in lysine may help reduce reoccurring outbreaks
associated with genital herpes and cold sores. The university continues by
stating those who consumed the recommended 1 to 3 grams of lysine per
day experienced a reduction in outbreak duration and severity. Consume
foods such as eggs, potatoes, chicken and fish to increase your lysine
consumption. You may also consume lysine supplements. The University of
Maryland Medical Center, however states those with heart disease and high
cholesterol should avoid consuming lysine as initial studies showcased this
compound increased triglyceride and cholesterol levels within animals.
Antioxidant-Rich Foods
7. Antioxidant-rich foods significantly decreased herpes sore outbreak
duration, severity and lesion development. The Cleveland Clinic as well as
the Mayo Clinic suggests consuming foods such as citrus fruits, whole
grains, sweet potatoes, green vegetables, garlic and vegetable oils to
increase your body's antioxidant count.
Garlic
Include diced, chopped or crushed garlic in entrees and side dishes. Garlic
contains two chemicals, called alliin and allinase, that form an antibacterial
and anti-viral compound when you cut or crush garlic. This compound,
called allicin, may help fight herpes viruses.
Foods Rich in Vitamin C
Consume foods rich in vitamin C, which include citrus fruits, broccoli,
avocados, sweet bell peppers and kiwifruit. Vitamin C is an antioxidant that
may help heal your skin in areas affected by herpes virus infections.
Foods Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Add foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to your diet as these essential fatty
acids are necessary for the repair of skin tissues. Fish, flax seeds and
walnuts are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
Yogurt
Plain yogurt may be one of the most useful foods in treating your herpes,
as it possesses a high lysine-to-arginine ratio. Yogurt has historically
treated many conditions, including herpes. Yogurt has also treated
recurrent vaginal yeast infections, free radical damage, thyroid dysfunction
and arthritic inflammation. Yogurt is an excellent source of iodine, calcium,
phosphorus and riboflavin.
Foods to Avoid During Herpes
Here are some foods that you might not eat if you have herpes:
8. Arginine and Acidity
Arginine is an amino acid that is plentiful in specific foods and can increase
the potential that you will experience a herpes blister, either genital or oral.
L-lysine is another amino acid that has anti-viral properties and can help
reduce the effect of arginine and your potential for an outbreak. However,
lysine has acidic properties, and when taken with acid-rich foods like dairy
products or sweets, it can lead to hyperacidity in the body. This imbalance
can also trigger an outbreak.
Sweets
Foods that are sweet or have sugar are high in the amino acid arginine.
This includes chocolate and raisins. Other foods that are high in sugar
include soft drinks and foods made with high fructose corn syrup, such as
popsicles, fruit juices, some breakfast cereals, candy bars, cough syrups,
drink mixes, ketchup and jams and jellies. Each of these products contains
sugars and syrups that will increase your risk of developing new herpes
lesions.
Nuts
Nuts are high in arginine and low in lysine, increasing your potential for an
outbreak so avoid peanuts and peanut butter because of the high amount
of arginine in the products. Other nuts are also high in arginine, such as
almonds, Brazil nuts, cashews, filberts, pecans and walnuts.
Caffeine
Caffeinated drinks and products will also increase your risk of an outbreak.
Caffeine has been added to a number of products found in the grocery
store. Aside from caffeine pills used to keep you awake, there is caffeine in
coffee, tea, power drinks, power supplements, chocolate, soft drinks,
medications and frozen desserts.
Herbal Remedies to Cure Genital Herpes Outbreaks
9. The application of certain herbs has been shown to decrease the frequency
and severity of genital herpes outbreaks. The University of Maryland
Medical Center reports the topical application or internal consumption of
lemon balm, aloe, peppermint oil and Siberian ginseng showcased benefits
for those experiencing a genital herpes outbreak. Prior to applying an herb
topically or consuming internally, speak with your physician; especially if
you're currently taking medications for genital herpes or another medical
condition.
Vitamins to Prevent Genital Herpes Outbreaks
In addition to adhering to a balanced diet high in fresh fruits and
vegetables, you may use a daily multivitamin to maintain a healthy nervous
system and promote optimum immune function. Specifically, antioxidants
such as vitamins A, C and E are key to supporting immunity. The vitamins
that make up the B complex family, namely thiamine, riboflavin, niacin,
biotin and folic acid, are required for healthy cell metabolism.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is necessary for healing lesions caused by herpes outbreaks. It is
also an immune system enhancer, and may help your body destroy herpes
simplex virus cells. Your body manufactures vitamin A from beta-carotene,
which is found in food sources.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and enhances the function of your
immune system, and may help minimize the spread of the herpes simplex
virus. Vitamin C may help reduce the occurrence of genital herpes
outbreaks. Talk to your physician before treating genital herpes with
vitamin C.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is an important supplement for treating genital herpes. This
vitamin is necessary for the production of healthy skin cells, and may
10. speed the healing of sores and other lesions. It is also an infection fighter
and immune system booster, which may help the body stave off the effects
of the herpes simplex virus. Talk to your doctor if you plan to use vitamin E
supplements to treat genital herpes.
How to Get Rid of Cold Sores Naturally Fast
Herpes labialis is infection of the lips, mouth, or gums with the herpes
simplex virus. It leads to the development of small, painful blisters
commonly called cold sores or fever blisters. Cold sores will generally heal
themselves in one to two weeks; however, taking action can prevent
spreading the virus further and speed up the healing process. Here to
some steps on how to get rid of cold sores naturally fast:
Wash infected areas with an antiseptic soap. Antiseptic soaps have
minimal fragrance to prevent further irritation and the antiseptic
components help to fight bacteria.
Wash your hands frequently to prevent spreading the virus to other
parts of your body or to others.
Wash any clothing or towels that come into contact with the infected
area, daily. Use warm water and dry with hot heat to kill the virus.
Avoid any skin-to-skin contact while and even after you have the
blister to prevent reinfection and further contamination to others.
Even when the blister has healed, you can still be contagious.
Discard your toothbrush when the cold sore is gone and buy a new
one. The herpes virus can live on your toothbrush for several days,
re-infecting you and causing another outbreak.
Avoid passing the virus to others through a contaminated object. Do
not share your drinking glasses, silverware, razors, towels,
toothbrushes or other objects with other people when you have a
cold sore.
Do not wear nylon or other synthetic pantyhose, underwear, or
pants. Instead, wear loose-fitting cotton garments
11. Take care of yourself. Since cold sores usually pop up when your
immune system is weakened, it's important to stay healthy to fight
them off. This includes getting seven to nine hours of sleep each
night; eating a balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy
products, lean protein and whole grains; drinking water; and drinking
alcohol in moderation.
What Is The Best Over The Counter Treatment for
Herpes or Cold Sores
Cold sores come by many different names including fever blisters, herpes
simplex type 1 and herpes labialis but they are never welcome. They can
be painful, embarrassing and socially disruptive. There is little dispute that
herpes or cold sores are painful and unpleasant to look at. By exploring
various cold sore remedies and treatments, you will be able to determine
what is the best over the counter treatment for herpes that fits your needs
to heal quickly and effectively. Cold sore treatments only help reduce their
duration or relieve symptoms, so no product will actually get rid of your
cold sore very quickly. The products that help with symptoms include over
the counter topical creams, home remedies and prescription antiviral
medication.
Over the counter medicines might help relieve symptoms such as itching
and minimize appearance of the cold sore because no drug can cure
herpes simplex virus. The infection may recur after treatment has been
stopped and, even during therapy, a patient can still transmit the virus to
another person. Drugs can, however, reduce symptoms and improve
healing times. Genital herpes cannot be cured. However, antiviral
medication can relieve pain and discomfort during an outbreak by healing
the sores more quickly. These drugs appear to help during first attacks
more than they do in later outbreaks. Medicines used to treat herpes
include acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir but these medicines might
have side effects like fatigue, headache, nausea and vomiting etc. The
frequency of outbreaks can often be managed through effective
12. stress management, and getting adequate rest, nutrition, and
exercise.
The best way for you to get rid of herpes is to make sure that you
do your very best to make sure that you never get it. Along with
your well-balanced diet, you need to also make sure that you
maintain a regular schedule of exercise and rest throughout the
week because that is truly the best way that you can stay healthy
and remain in great shape.
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Treatment for Herpes