WHAT ARE THE HOME TREATMENTS AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES FOR HERPES SIMPLEX?
Most herpes simplex infections that develop on the skin can be managed at home with over-the-counter pain killers and symptomatic relief. Symptomatic Relief A number of simple steps can produce some relief: • Hygiene is important. Avoid touching the sores. Wash hands frequently during the day. Fingernails should be scrubbed daily. Keep the body clean. • Drink plenty of water. • Blisters or sores should be kept clean and dry with an agent such as cornstarch. (Talcum power should never be used because of its association with an increased risk for ovarian cancer.) • Some people report that drying the genital area with a blow dryer on the cool setting offers relief. • Void tight-fitting clothing, which restricts air circulation and slows healing of the sores. • Choose cotton underwear, rather than synthetic materials. • Local application of ice packs may alleviate the pain and help reduce recurrences by suppressing the virus. • Lukewarm baths may be helpful. (For people who have pain in ur
