According to WHO estimates, up to 90% of the population are infected with both types of herpes virus. Most people never show symptoms of the infection, but there are «lucky ones» who periodically suffer from unpleasant rashes on the lips and face. Is it possible to get rid of them quickly?
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The first type of herpes simplex (HSV-1) is most often transmitted by oral contact, the second type (HSV-2) is transmitted sexually. Facial rashes most often appear with HSV-1, but some patients with the second type have the same symptoms. Unfortunately, it is impossible to get rid of herpes, the infection settles in our body for life. If some «wise guy» offers you a reliable remedy for herpes, do not believe him.
The virus reminds of itself against the background of a weakened immune system, usually due to past infections, severe stress, lack of sleep, a sedentary lifestyle, and even during menstruation. So if you don't want to walk around with an ugly sore on your face, try to take care of your health.
How do I know that I have herpes?
Tingling and burning around the lips, painful induration are the first harbingers of herpes. After a day or two, small painful blisters filled with fluid appear. Sometimes rashes are localized not only on the lips, but around the nose, cheeks or in the mouth. They may open, ooze and cover for 7-10 days, causing a lot of inconvenience, but gradually these lesions will pass.
If this is your first «acquaintance» with herpes, that is, you contracted the virus and the symptoms appeared after contact with the infected person (usually within 20 days), the symptoms may be much more severe than during a relapse. In this case, you may experience a fever, sore throat and headache, swollen lymph nodes — that is, symptoms of a cold. That is why many confuse the manifestation of herpes with SARS.
Here's what to do if a rash appears:
- If you are faced with manifestations of herpes for the first time, be sure see a doctor who can help you find the right treatment. As a rule, in such cases, antiviral drugs and topical agents are prescribed.
- Keep the inflamed areas dry and clean. Don't wear lipstick or other cosmetics, and try to avoid touching blisters.
- Poured out herpetic vesicles — beware of the addition of concomitant bacterial infections. Of course, the bubbles can shrink and turn into crusts, but they can also fester. This is where drugs that contain a good antiseptic at their core that specifically target these complications can help.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, for pain relief.
- Stay healthy whenever possible.
Is there anything I can do to speed up the healing process?
There are several remedies that can help relieve inflammation. But you must remember that their effectiveness is not supported by sufficient evidence, although they can be considered safe. They should be used against the background of treatment prescribed by a doctor.
Balm with lemon balm extract
Medicinal lemon balm helps relieve redness and swelling and can potentially protect against bacterial infections. It is better to choose products containing at least 1% lemon balm.
Ice and cold compresses
This will not speed up healing, but may relieve discomfort and inflammation.
Remedies with aloe vera extract
This herb is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help heal breakouts. One small in vitro study has confirmed the limited efficacy of aloe vera in the treatment of herpes, but it must be understood that definitive conclusions can only be drawn after human trials, and not in vitro.
Sunscreen
Healthline recommends this. The cream can protect the affected areas from exposure to sunlight and the possible risk of new inflammation.