How can herpes be treated?
Once the virus has entered the body it may be there for life, however there are ways to manage outbreaks. Simple painkillers will relieve discomfort and it is important to keep the area clean (salt baths are good). You can use betadine paint on blisters and sores to prevent secondary infection. If it is painful to pass urine, pouring lukewarm water over the infected area while urinating can be helpful. Antiviral drugs are available from your doctor. These drugs act by preventing multiplication of the herpes virus but do not get rid of the virus completely from your body. They have very few side effects. If started early in an attack of herpes, these drugs can abort or shorten an attack, as well as reducing the discomfort.
