Genital herpes is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV). When HSV 1 infects someone he gets the cold sore disease, and when the HSV 2 virus infects, it leads to the genital herpes disease. This is basically a sexually transmitted disease and it is highly contagious. The disease is extremely common as well – according to an estimate, as many as 1 in every 6 adults and teens (that is those who are sexually active), are infected with the genital herpes virus.
Since the disease is caused by a virus, going for antiviral drugs can suppress the virus and make it become dormant, and that is the best hope, because a virus cannot be completely removed from the body. Improving the immunity is also a good idea, because if the natural immunity of the body is strengthened, then the body is fully armed to fight an infiltration better.
Genital Herpes Treatment At The Beginning: It all starts with a brief course that includes antiviral medication that can stop the symptoms from getting worse. However if the symptoms do not seem to be going away, then this course may be extended.
Genital Herpes Treatment In The Intermittent Stage: Very often the symptoms of the disease tend to come back, and when they do, antiviral drugs are prescribed once more. This is the intermittent stage of the therapy. It can take up to a week for the herpes symptoms to go away.
Genital Herpes Treatment In The Suppressive Stage: But in cases where the virus keeps affecting the individual again and again (as many as 6 times every year), suppressive treatment may become necessary. If this happens, the need of the hour is to take an antiviral drug daily. With suppressive genital herpes treatment, the outbreak of symptoms can be restricted.
Medicines are not the only genital herpes treatment options. There are quite a few things that can be done at home to improve the situation…
• Wear lose clothes so that there is less friction.
• Use warm water while taking a bath.
• Always use a soft towel to rinse lightly – a hair dryer can be
a good option.
• Never touch the sores or pick them – remember the blisters can
spread.
• Maintain hygiene – keep the area dry and clean.