How to Get Rid of Herpes
Herpes simplex is a virus. There are several species which belong to this family of virus. Herpes simplex 1 and herpes simplex 2 are by far the most common ones. Close to eight species of this virus affects human beings. They can cause cold sores, cancer, inflammation of the brain, chicken pox, etc. It is common myth that one gets infected by this herpes virus only through sexual intercourse. Though it is one of the ways through which one can get infected, it is important to note that it is not the only one. In fact it is possible for even new born kids to be affected by the herpes simplex virus.
As mentioned, there are several different types of virus which belong to this family. The more common ones are the orofacial herpes, genital herpes and the ones which affect the hands and toes. Orofacial herpes is caused by herpes simplex 1 (HS1) although sometimes it can be caused by herpes simplex 2 (HS2) also. Genital herpes on the other hand is caused by herpes simplex 2. It is important to note that there is no permanent cure for this. It can only be curtailed to a certain extent. Once you are infected by the herpes virus, you need to live with it for life.
Orofacial herpes is usually common among children. The symptoms include fever and ulcer. It can also cause the lymph nodes to swell. The affected person might have difficulty in swallowing. The primary stage of its lifecycle may last for a couple of weeks. After this, the virus becomes dormant. It settles itself in the neuron’s cell body. There is a possibility of it reoccurring. This depends on the external conditions. If and when it does reappear, it causes reddening of the skin near the infected area. This eventually leads to the formation of blisters which get filled with fluids. The more common name for orofacial herpes is cold sores.
Genital herpes is caused mostly by herpes simplex 2 (HS2). This gets transmitted when one comes in contact with the affected person. It can get transmitted during kissing, sexual intercourse or touching. The symptoms include blisters on the surface of the genitals. This is usually accompanied by itching, pain and a burning sensation. After it finishes its lifecycle, it becomes dormant as in the case of the orofacial virus. And just like the orofacial virus, it can reappear too.
It is not possible to get rid of this virus permanently. However, the following suggestions will help deal with them.
1. Use antiviral medication
2. Do not do anything to the blisters
3. Apply cold or warm compress
4. Taking painkillers
5. Avoid stress
Use antiviral medication: By using antiviral medication, you give your immune system the time it needs to fight back. A lot of these medicines are available on the market and relatively inexpensive prices.
Do not do anything to the blisters: Make sure you do not pinch them or squeeze them. Let it take its time to heal. If you try to prick it or remove it, it will only worsen and take longer to heal.
Apply a cold or warm compress: As with the case of any kind of infection, applying a cold or a warm compress will help reduce the pain.
Taking painkillers: This is a solution most people resort to when the pain becomes unbearable. Taking a painkiller once in a while is okay. However, taking it on a regular basis should be avoided.
Avoid stress: It is found that the herpes virus resurfaces when you are stressed out. So avoid stress to prevent the virus from infecting you again.