The herpes simplex virus often causes painful sores around the mouth and genitals. Genital infections usually involve the HSV-2 form of this virus, while oral infections generally occur with the HSV-1 variety. Although no cure for herpes exists, certain medications and home remedies, including dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and L-lysine, may help reduce the risk and severity of outbreaks. Always ask your doctor about using an alternative remedy to treat a medical condition, such as herpes.
Herpes
Herpes affects numerous people around the world. Up to 90 percent of Americans have the HSV-1 virus, although not everyone with the virus experiences symptoms. HSV-1 typically causes fever, swollen lymph nodes and sore throat, as well as tingling and blisters around the edges of your mouth. HSV-2 can cause headache, painful urination, swollen lymph glands, vaginal discharge and blisters on the genitals and inner thighs.
DMSO
One form of sulfur, dimethyl sulfoxide, may help in the treatment of herpes. DMSO is a common industrial solvent, as well as an FDA-approved drug for the treatment of interstitial cystitis. People use DMSO for a number of medicinal purposes, including acne and respiratory disorders, although insufficient scientific evidence exists to support these types of treatments. Some scientific analysis shows that DMSO may help inhibit the replication of viral DNA, according to Dr. Edward K. Wagner of the University of California Irvine School of Biological Sciences. Applying topical DMSO to a shingles rash, a condition associated with a type of herpes virus, may help reduce inflammation and decrease the number of lesions, although more research is necessary to confirm this potential benefit.
L-Lysine
L-lysine provides a common and inexpensive method of treating herpes. This amino acid may work in reducing both genital and oral forms of the virus. NYU Langone Medical Center recommends treating a herpes infection by taking 1 g of lysine three times each day. Some people take this on a daily basis as a preventive medicine, while others take it at the first signs of an attack.
Precautions
The herpes virus spreads easily, making it a contagious infection. Avoid kissing or sharing straws and utensils during an oral outbreak of herpes. Sexual contact during a genital herpes breakout increases the risk of infecting your partner. Although some research indicates that DMSO and L-lysine may help in the treatment of herpes, these substances are not standard or customary medications. Talk to your doctor before substituting alternative health products for prescription medications.
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