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.
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.
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.
Resources
American Social Health Association STD Hotline 919-361-8488 www.ashastd.org
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 800-232-4636 www.cdc.gov/std
