How to Calm a Genital Herpes Outbreak

Once it is contracted, the Herpes virus stays within the body. As a result, outbreaks of blisters, known to be quite painful, can take place especially during stressful situations or when the immune system is weak. Fortunately, there are different ways to keep them under control.

Since Herpes is a type of virus, there are anti-viral medicines that can be used to treat it. In most cases, Herpes patients take daily doses in order to keep outbreaks at bay. What types of medication to take should depend on the doctor’s orders. Because aside from its effectiveness, you must also consider its side effects especially when taking the medication on a daily basis.

Medication for Herpes is usually taken in pill form. The most common medication to treat Herpes are: valacyclover, acyclovir, and famciclover. Painkillers may also be taken to provide pain relief. Be sure however, to first consult with your doctor before taking any form of painkiller.

For some Herpes patients, Herpes meds are only taken during the outbreaks. This way, expenses remain low and the risk for side effects is reduced. For patients with frequent outbreaks, those who experience six or more a year, a more aggressive form of medication plan will be prescribed. This treatment plan would involve prescribing medication with or without any outbreaks.

There is no one medication that can provide an instant cure for Herpes. It must be understood that these medications are only taken in order to improve or lessen the duration and severity of such outbreaks. They are there to provide temporary relief for the discomfort associated with the outbreaks, particularly the burning sensations and the soreness. Aside from medication, there are natural methods to calm a herpes outbreak.

For one, strengthening the immune system is very important. You can take vitamin supplements to help boost your system and prevent Herpes outbreaks. In particular, L-lysine can slow the growth of the virus. Also maintain a healthy diet. Be sure to get Vitamin C and E-enriched food to help fight the virus. Load up on those colorful fruits and vegetables.

To provide a soothing relief to the blisters, apply aloe vera gel to keep the area moist and to speed up the healing process. You can also make a paste of one part black walnut hull powder, one part goldenseal, and one part Echinacea root powder. Apply the paste onto the sores to dry them out. For an herbal bath with soothing properties, blend three parts of chamomile to one part each of hops, oats, calendula, comfrey root, and comfrey leaves. Combine them in a cheese cloth and soak it in your bath water.

You can also apply cold tea bags on the inflamed areas. Tea contains tannic acid which is a natural astringent containing anti-viral properties. Apply these tea bags at regular intervals during an outbreak. Aside from these therapeutic techniques, the simple act of applying ice packs or frozen bags of peas on the area can provide pain relief. The coldness provides in instant soothing effect on the sores while minimizing the outbreak.