Treatments for Genital Herpes
Take the right steps to treat genital herpes effectively

Genital herpes outbreaks can interfere with your sex life, work, and social activities. Stress, diet, and lifestyle might be worth looking into if you want to manage your herpes. Taking prescribed oral antiviral medications can help you control your herpes outbreaks and prevent or minimize future outbreaks. Antiviral medications for herpes are available through doctor’s prescriptions and should be taken when you experience symptoms, or for a prolonged amount of time to prevent symptoms from occurring.

One of the characteristics of herpes (which is caused by herpes simplex virus) is its recurrence. This recurrence is very frustrating during special plans or events. Genital herpes affects the genitals, anus, buttocks, and thighs. The virus, once it infects your body, remains permanently in your body. The virus is inactive most of the time, but outbreaks occur, almost always in the original site of infection.

The virus can be shed or passed on to others through a process known as shedding. Shedding can occur with or without the presence of herpes outbreak symptoms.

Episodic therapy

This form of treatment describes treatments started at the first signs or symptoms of a recurrence. Treatment is followed through usually for a few days afterward. Episodic therapy should be taken as soon as possible to be fully effective. Early signs of recurrence include a pain or tingling in the skin. Episodic therapy shortens and minimizes the outbreaks and helps relieve symptoms. However, it does not control the frequency of the outbreaks.

Suppressive therapy

This form of therapy involves taking an antiviral drug every day for prolonged periods of time, usually for a few months. Taken this way, the medication can effectively reduce the number of outbreaks. It might also reduce the frequency with which the virus sheds and spreads to others.

Knowing when to take suppressive therapy

You should always consult your doctor about the use of suppressive therapy. If you experience frequent outbreaks and/or experience severe and long-lasting outbreaks, this form of therapy might be suitable for you. The therapy is also good for those who become depressed, anxious, or withdrawn due to recurrent outbreaks. It might be good for those who want to plan for a special event.

Will suppressive therapy make it easier to live with genital herpes?

Suppressive therapy helps many people regain control over their herpes and boost their sense of confidence and well-being. Suppressive therapy might also necessitate additional support from your counselor or doctor.

Risks associated with antiviral therapy

Although most people taking antiviral therapy tolerate it very well, a minority of people have reported minor side-effects, such as headache, nausea and diarrhea. There are no known side-effects of these medications; however, contact your doctor immediately if there appears to be a problem associated with the medication.