There is no drug that can get rid of the herpes virus altogether but there are many treatments available to tackle the symptoms. Some people take no specific treatments at all but make diet or lifestyle changes to improve their body’s immune system overall.
Others find that some treatments work for them and others do not. It is important for each individual to try different treatments as everyone is different.
Your doctor will likely first try a prescribed antiviral medication, Valtrex, Acyclovir or Famvir. All work in similar ways but some may work better or have less side effects than others, depending on the individual. All three antiviral treatments are perfectly safe to use.
Although not everyone experiences side-effects, possible reactions include nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, hair loss, and depression.
Alternatively you could try alternative treatments.
The herpes virus often reoccurs when the body is deficient in vitamins and minerals and a healthy diet can reduce the outbreaks. A diet that is rich in vitamins C, B and E, bioflavonoids and zinc. To help manage herpes it is recommended to reduce or avoid foods that are very rich in Arginine (such as chocolate, nuts and carob) and increase foods that are rich in Lysine (such as most fresh fruits and vegetables).
Herbal supplements can be helpful in managing herpes symptoms. Andrographis combined with Echinacea, Olive Leaf, St John’s Wort, Lemon Balm, Licorice and Astragalus are some of these.
Other treatments may include Acupuncture, Psychotherapy, Hypnosis or Counselling and there are externally applied treatments like Dynamiclear.
Be sure to AVOID any herpes treatments that claim to ‘cure’ herpes altogether. No such treatment exists.
Make sure what you are tying to treat is actually herpes and be sure to have you diagnosis carried out by your doctor or specialist clinic.
Remember that antibiotics are useless on the herpes virus and can also deplete your immune system.
Other methods to relieve symptoms include:-
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen can relieve pain.
- Bathing in lightly salted water helps relieve symptoms.
- Use Ice packs
- Apply Vaseline
- Avoid tight clothing.
- Keep your hands clean.
- Avoid sexual activity while symptoms persist.