Herpes Doctor

No, there is no cure for a cold sore. Oral Herpes - cold sores, is an outbreak caused by the
Herpes Simplex 1 virus and although you may experience as few as 1 or 2 outbreaks in a lifetime, the simplex virus stays latent within you for life and may outbreak again and again.

Viruses are very difficult to treat. The common cold is also a
virus and you can compare Oral Herpes to this as it is
almost as common, comes back time after time and is very
easy to catch.

Herpes Simplex is spread via kissing, even kissing on the cheek,
or close skin contact. Children often get it from their relatives.
It is possible to carry the virus for years without an outbreak
but it can still spread even if there is no outbreak.

Treating Oral Herpes

Even if you can't cure Oral Herpes, you can treat it with good
results. You use a cream containing either Acyclovir or Penciclovir.
They are available over the counter in pharmacies under the brand
names Zovirax or Vectavir.

You should see a doctor to get a diagnosis and advice on treatment
if you suspect you have Oral Herpes. The symptoms are a rash that
turns into blisters which then turn into dry scabs. It is best to
see the doctor when you have the outbreak as it aids diagnosis.
The doctor may diagnose you purely from seeing your symptoms but
he may also want to take a swab or a blood test.

When you use the cream you should start by washing your hands. Never
touch the cream with your hands. Instead you should use a cotton bud.
Do not touch the tip and do not dip the cotton bud in the cream more
than once, use a couple if necessary. This may seem exaggerated but
you avoid cross contamination which can slow down or eliminate the
effects of the cream.

What to Avoid

General actions to avoid include:

• Do not touch the infected area when you have an outbreak
• Wash your hands regularly
• Hold your hand over your mouth when you sneeze
• Do not share drinks, food or towels

These are actually just basic hygiene considerations but will make a
big difference for you and others.

Reducing the Risk or Oral Herpes Outbreaks

Herpes loves a low immune defense system. You are more likely
to have an outbreak if you are:

• Tired
• Stressed
• Suffering from another Illness

Being healthy will have an impact on the amount of outbreaks you have.
Get your sleep, eat healthy and try to avoid stressful situations.

Don't despair! Most people with Oral Herpes lead perfectly
normal lives and so can you. There are plenty of support groups, counseling
and other types of help to get. Start by SEEING YOUR DOCTOR.

Related Links

• The Herpes treatment page
• What is Herpes Simplex?
• Is there a cure for Herpes Simplex?
• What are cold sores?

Still Need Help?

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