| Herpes simplex, or herpes as it is called informally, is caused by viruses. The disease may appear in 2 forms – oral infection, also known as cold sores, that affects face and lips, and genital herpes whose symptoms are itchy or painful sores on the genitals.
The herpes virus can be transmitted not only through coitus as many people consider, but through a simple skin contact as well. A group of scientists suppose that the virus of herpes can also be transmitted to an infant during childbirth in case his mother is infected.
How to understand that you are infected with herpes? You'll see red bumps, sores or blisters on your mouth or in genital area. They are as a rule itchy or painful to touch. These blisters are gradually turning into scabs and then are healing on their own.
To avert the herpes infection you should take proper care about your personal belongings like towels and clothes. Never share these personal belongings with infected people. You should know that people with strong immune system are less subject to different infections including herpes, so stick to a healthy diet plan and do regular training to strengthen your immune system. Sexual contacts are the most widespread reason for herpes transmission, so be attentive to your sexual partners and never forget about condoms. In case you're already infected, wash your hands with soap after touching sores and blisters not to spread the infection.
In fact, there isn't such a medicine which truly kills the virus. That's the reason why the preventive measures are the best way to avoid the infection. Antiviral medical products like Acyclovir or Flamivir are effective in decreasing the symptoms' frequency and aggressiveness. They are usually taken as a treatment method in the active phase of the disease. Alternative medicine is famous for its relief effect in its passive phase.
In any case, you should address to a physician in order to get some recommendations on treatment methods. But there are a number of actions that you can take on your own. First of all, you should stick to a diet with considerable amount of amino acids, such as fish, vegetables and milk. It's also advisable to reduce the consumption of sweet food, particularly the one with aspartame, or a natural sweetener. Apart from diet plan you should use tea tree oil that is famous for its anti-viral properties. Such herbs as peppermint, aloe vera and lemon balm are also effective in curing lip blisters. |
