There's no cure for it. Once you've been exposed to it, it's always in your system, even if it doesn't often cause cold sores or other symptoms. Herpes simplex is spread by close contact. If you kiss someone with a cold sore, or you touch their face and then touch your own face, you can catch the virus.Jun 23, 2020
Facial herpes may be treated, and sometimes even prevented, with an antiviral drug, valaciclovir, which is available as tablets (you need a doctor's prescription). There are also over-the-counter cold sore treatments your pharmacist can advise you about.
The herpes simplex virus spreads between people, usually through contact with saliva or direct contact with a blister. The most infectious time is in the first few days when the blister is forming. Sometimes, people can pass the virus to others when they have no symptoms.
There are antiviral drugs that can help cold sores heal faster, including acyclovir, valacyclovir, famciclovir and penciclovir. If you're having frequent outbreaks or experiencing some of the serious side effects of having a cold sore, your doctor may consider prescribing antiviral medication.Feb 25, 2020
These treatments include:applying a cold compress to the area for pain relief.taking over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, such as ibuprofen.using aloe vera.using lysine.applying analgesic creams.applying OTC cold sore creams with drying agents.Jan 29, 2021
There is no cure for genital herpes. However, there are medicines that can prevent or shorten outbreaks. A daily anti-herpes medicine can make it less likely to pass the infection on to your sex partner(s).Jan 3, 2022
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). There is no cure for HSV-1. Once you contract the virus, it stays in your system for life. The virus causes tiny blisters to form around the mouth and nostrils.Dec 4, 2021
10 Ways to Prevent Herpes OutbreaksTalk to Your Doctor About Antiviral Medications. ... Know Your Triggers. ... Recognize the Early Symptoms. ... Practice Daily Stress Management. ... Take Care of Your Body. ... Use Lubricants During Intercourse. ... Talk to Your Doctor Before Using Herbal Methods or Supplements. ... Pay Attention to What You Eat.More items...•Aug 14, 2019
An initial herpes outbreak lasts around 14 days but can take up to six weeks for sores to fully heal (Saleh, 2020). Later outbreaks aren't re-infection with the same virus.