Oral Herpes (HSV-1) Treatment

What Are My Options To Get Treated For HSV-1?

Oral herpes (Herpes Simplex I) can be treated in a variety of ways including through topical anesthetic, IV medications and in extreme cases, hospitalization. Herpes treatment, like other viral infections such as the flu, is largely aided by having a strong and healthy immune system.

Topical anesthetics used for oral herpes treatment include Dilocaine, Nervocaine, Xylocaine, and Zilactin-L, collectively known as lidocaine. These topical anasthetics can help relieve immediate pain associated with herpes sore outbreaks.

Antiviral Medications

Antiviral medications such as acyclovir, famciclovir (Famvir) and valacyclovir (Valtrex) are the most common treatment solutions prescribed to those suffering a herpes outbreak. These antiviral medications reduce the time it takes for the body to heal a new outbreak.

A traditional prescription regimen for antiviral medication targeting HSV-1 will look like one of the following:

• 2g Valacyclovir Twice Daily, Once

• 750mg Famciclovir Twice Daily, Once (or 1500mg once)

What Affects My Treatment Prescription?

Many factors go into a physician’s decision to prescribe medication such as your personal health history and any existing medications you may be on. With herpes in particular, the extremity of the infection and the relative health of your immune system will play a major role in what prescription your doctor decides on for you.

For minor herpes outbreaks and infections, simply taking a pain reliever such as aspirin or ibuprofen and drinking plenty of water can be enough to get you through the outbreak. A variety of non-traditional remedies or treatment methods exist including the use of

• Tea Tree Oil

• Echinacea Extract

• Propolis

• Prunella Vulgaris

• Lysine

• Vitamin C

• Aloe Vera

• Lemon Balm

• Resveratrol

• Garlic

• Lactoferrin

• Honey

Scientific examination of these treatments have yielded mixed results as some studies measuring the effectiveness of natural remedies against placebos don’t show the natural remedy making a differences.

As natural remedies are unregulated by the FDA, it is generally recommended to see a healthcare professional for any suspected herpes infections.

Treatment For Extreme Cases Of Herpes

Most herpes infections are mild or moderate and the human body is particularly capable of dealing with an infection with the help of prescribed medication.

In certain cases, such as with the elderly or in an individual with a weak or compromised immune system, a herpes infection can lead to hospitalization. Herpes infections unimpeded by a healthy immune system can spread to internal organs and cause serious damage. If you think you are suffering from a harsh outbreak you are perfectly welcome to visit a hospital or healthcare professional and get tested for herpes.