Herpes simplex virus type 1 is primarily responsible for oral herpes, also called cold sores. The American Academy of Dermatology suggests that HSV-1 can cause herpes blisters anywhere on the skin. No permanent cure exists for HSV-1 but sufferers have several options when treating the discomfort and other symptoms of the virus. HSV-1 treatments should only be used under the supervision of a health care professional and only on parts of the body for which they are approved.
Home Treatment
Home treatment methods have no impact on the virus itself but they can provide an individual with short-term pain and discomfort relief. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends sufferers avoid touching the blisters or affected areas and keeping them clean. Depending on the area affected, a lukewarm bath with oatmeal or Epsom salts can soothe irritation and help dry the sores. Sun block should be used over visible blisters to prevent further damage. Sun can also trigger a recurrence of herpes. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be taken as directed to minimize pain.
Over-the-Counter Medication
Only one over-the-counter antiviral medication has been approved for the treatment of herpesa: a topical cream called docosanol, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This cream works to treat pain and shorten the healing time of the oral herpes. It is not approved for the use of genital herpes. The cream is to be applied five times per day at the very earliest sign of an outbreak.
Other over-the-counter medicines can be used to treat pain, itching and other minor symptoms of oral herpes. These include various lip ointments made with camphor, dimethicone, sunscreen and various moisturizers and balm substances such as beeswax. Unlike other specific herpes treatments, these ointments serve only the purpose of reducing discomfort temporarily as they have no effect on the virus causing the infection.
Prescription Antiviral Medication
Oral antiviral medications are considered to be an effective choice in treating HSV-1 infections, states the American Dermatology Association. This drug is taken by mouth as prescribed. Sometimes this means taking the drug only during an outbreak to speed the healing time. It can also be taken more regularly by users who experience frequent outbreaks. The antiviral drug can suppress recurrent outbreaks for many individuals. Common generic names for this type of prescription include acyclovir, famciclovir or valacyclovir. Antiviral medicines taken by mouth can be effective in treating both HSV-1 infections of the mouth and the genitals.
Similar to oral antiviral medicines are two topical antiviral creams called penciclovir and acyclovir. The University of Maryland Medical Center suggests these creams aren't truly effective in eliminating outbreaks but they can shorten healing time and diminish symptoms. These creams are typically applied every day that symptoms occur and at least once every few hours. Acyclovir works best when applied at the earliest signs of an outbreak.
