Genital herpes can be spread even when a person does not have noticeable sores. Herpes occurs in about one in five women of ages 14 to 49 in America, and in about one in nine men in that age range, notes The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Herpes can cause ongoing episodes of genital blisters. A cure for herpes is not available. However, treatments such as antiviral drugs help manage herpes outbreaks.
Antiviral Drug: Valacylovir
Valacylovir (Valtrex) is an antiviral drug treatment for herpes. This medication will help to control the length and severity of an outbreak and also prevent herpes outbreaks, notes Women’s Health. It will also work to limit the risk of transmitting the herpes virus to sexual partners. Antiviral drugs to treat herpes are often taken daily on an ongoing basis, notes the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center College of Medicine of Penn State.
Acyclovir & Famciclovir
Acyclovir (Zovirax) and famciclovir (Famvir) are additional antiviral drugs to treat a herpes infection. Ask a doctor which antiviral drug would be best for the herpes symptoms presented.
Abstincence While Sores are Active
Avoiding sexual interaction with a partner while herpes sores are present is an important part of a herpes treatment program. If sexual activity occurs during an active herpes outbreak it can spread to a partner and then infect both partners in new areas.
Do Not Touch Herpes Sores
Avoid touching active herpes blisters. Touching the sores and then touching the eyes or mouth area could spread the virus to new parts of the body. Immediately wash hands vigorously in hot water after touching a herpes sore.
Keep Outbreak Area Dry & Clean
Maintain hygiene in the area of the herpes sores. Wash the area regularly and then ensure that the area of the outbreak is kept dry and clean to prevent infection of the skin.
Pain Medications
Over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen will help to limit the pain of a herpes outbreak, notes the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center College of Medicine at Penn State. Check with a doctor to see if over-the-counter drugs are advisable for use and to get a schedule for use. If over-the-counter medications do not provide adequate pain relief, ask the doctor for information about prescription pain medications.
Try to Avoid Stress
Avoiding stress is also important to help prevent future outbreaks of herpes. Ask a doctor about stress reduction strategies such as yoga and meditation.
