If you develop an outbreak of genital herpes, there is no quick-fix medication that will cure sores instantly. However, there are antiviral medications that can shorten the duration of the outbreak. Other medications may reduce the frequency of future outbreaks. No medication can cure herpes simplex.
A cold or warm compress can ease the pain and itching of a herpetic lesion. Applying heat to the area around the lips can also prevent blisters from forming during an oral herpes infection. Some research has shown that this strong-smelling oil helps cold sores heal more quickly. Research has found that peppermint oil is effective in combating cold sores.
You can't get rid of cold sores overnight. There is no cure for cold sores. However, to speed up the healing time of a cold sore, you can check with your doctor and take prescription medications, such as antiviral tablets and creams. A cold sore may go away without treatment in a week or two.
Cold sores may go away without treatment in a week or two. This telehealth service provides prescription medications for herpes, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir. Studies have shown that vitamin C can inactivate the herpes simplex virus, the virus that causes cold sores. In the case of genital herpes, applying petroleum jelly to the affected area may reduce discomfort associated with urination.
In addition, the antioxidant properties of vitamin E can reduce the stress that infections such as herpes place on immune cells, thus reducing the chance of infection. They are usually caused by viral infections such as herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV) and, less commonly, by herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV). The first outbreak of genital herpes can be the most serious and cause complications, such as vaginal yeast infections, urination problems, and meningitis. If a person is diagnosed with herpes, they should inform all of their recent sexual partners, who may also need testing and treatment.
In addition, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, cold compresses may be beneficial if a person has ocular herpes, as they can reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling in the eyelid area. A person should see a doctor for a test if they have had sex with someone with herpes or if they have any symptoms. The company offers preventive treatment with a prescription that lasts 1 year or immediate treatment for current herpes outbreaks. According to MedlinePlus, acyclovir can reduce the initial or repeated outbreaks that occur when people have genital herpes.
There are products available at the pharmacy that can help reduce the pain of a cold sore or help keep your skin soft while it heals. There is still not enough evidence to show that a specific oil can help a person control herpes symptoms. A 2001 study found that tea tree oil has some antiviral effects that could help combat the herpes simplex virus, while another 2003 laboratory study shows that peppermint oil is effective in combating both HSV-1 and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV).