The herpes simplex virus causes a sexually transmitted disease commonly called genital herpes. This herpes virus can cause sores on the genital areas of males and females and infects between 200,000 and 500,000 new individuals each year, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. The outbreaks of sores may come and go and the virus can spread to other people with no symptoms present. There is no known cure for genital herpes. Treatment options are available to help prevent outbreaks and shorten the length of flareups. Treating the infection helps prevent spreading the virus to other individuals.
Antiviral Medications
Several antiviral medications are available with a physician's prescription. The goal of antiviral medications is to stop the virus from replicating and spreading in the body. Following the instructions on the individual medications is important because each drug may have different requirements. Common antiviral medications used to treat the herpes virus include acyclovir, valacyclovir and famcyclovir. The medications help decrease the symptoms associated with the herpes virus, such as pain and tingling. Some individuals use the antiviral medications only when herpes outbreaks occur and other individuals choose to take them daily to help suppress the virus and endure fewer outbreaks. Possible side effects from antiviral medications include a headache, fatigue, a rash and nausea, according to Medline Plus.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Some over-the-counter medications are available to help treat a herpes outbreak. Although no herpes treatments available over-the-counter are found to be effective in medical studies, some individuals see a reduction in symptoms associated with the virus, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some treatments, such as products containing lidocaine, help with pain relief when applied topically. Taking over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen may also help decrease the pain associated with the virus.
Home Treatment
Keep hands off the blister to avoid spreading the infection. Clean the area affected by herpes blisters and sores with mild soap and water. Apply ice packs to a herpes blister on the genitals to help relieve pain. Avoiding tight undergarments or pants helps decrease moisture and friction on genital sores. Placing a drying agent, such as cornstarch, on the genitals while in the bath helps provide comfort, according to the Mayo Clinic. Placing a black tea bag on the herpes sore helps relieve pain and itching.
