Herpes: Caring for Sores
Good hygiene matters when you have herpes. Take care of your sores to speed healing. Neglected sores can lead to other infections.
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| Warm baths can ease itching and burning caused by sores. |
To Ease Your Symptoms
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Take any medications as directed.
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Take aspirin or an aspirin substitute for pain.
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Take warm baths to relieve itching of sores. And don’t share towels when you have a sore.
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Urinate in a tub of warm water to prevent burning. This works for women with genital herpes.
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Don’t wear tight clothes or nylon underwear. They can trap moisture, cause chafing, and prevent sores from healing.
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| Use mild soap to wash your sores. Dry thoroughly to promote healing. |
To Speed Healing
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Wash the sores with mild soap and water. And wash your hands after you touch a sore.
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Dry the affected area completely. Blow-drying the sores on low heat may help speed healing.
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Don’t bandage sores. The dry air helps them heal.
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Avoid ointments unless they are prescribed. They retain moisture and may cause other infections.
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Don’t pick at the sores. This can slow healing.
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Don’t touch your eyes when you have a sore. The virus may travel from your fingertips to your eyes.
Publication Source:
Anton ML et al, Infectious Diseases, 2nd ed., Chapter 215 - Herpesviruses, 2004, pp 2029, 2035-2038
Publication Source:
Keck JW, Clinics in Family Practice, 7(1), Ulcerative lesions, Mar 2005, pp 13-30
Online Medical Reviewer:
Godsey, Cynthia M.S., M.S.N., APRN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Ratini, Melinda DO, MS
Date Last Reviewed:
2/2/2005
Date Last Modified:
2/6/2003