TREATMENT AND PREVENTION OF HERPES SIMPLEX

Herpes is a viral disease caused by one of two herpes viruses - Herpes simplex virus-1  (HSV-1) or Herpes simplex virus-2 (HSV-2).  HSV-1 is more commonly the agent responsible for oral lesions which appear on the lips or in the mouth.   HSV-2 is the agent more commonly responsible for genital lesions, although this differentiation is not absolute.  Primary outbreaks with the Herpes virus are associated with fever, fatigue, muscle pains, headache, swollen glands and a general feeling of illness.  Recurrent outbreaks are usually less severe.

Transmission:

The virus is transmitted by direct contact with the involved skin or mucous membranes.  Transmission does not require a break in the skin, but the extent to which transmission of the virus occurs during asymptomatic periods is unknown.   The incubation period of the virus varies from 1 - 26 days.  An outbreak is usually preceded by a prodrome with local sensations of tingling, crawling, itching, tingling or burning.   The vesicles that follow are painful, fluid filled lesions which eventually rupture, ulcerate and heal over.  The healing time varies from 2 - 3 weeks in primary infections to 8 - 12 days in recurrent outbreaks.  The rate of recurrence varies greatly between individuals. 

There is a well documented link between stress and the recurrence of Herpes outbreaks.   Emotional stressors, heat, changes in climate, fever, trauma, pregnancy, contraceptive use, and menses can all play a role in triggering an outbreak.  Taking the time and energy to keep stress levels down and to optimize health will help keep herpes dormant. 

Herpes is potentially contagious from the prodrome until complete skin healing occurs although the possibility of viral shedding while asymptomatic also exists. 

The following precautions can help reduce the chance of spreading the virus:

Reducing the frequency of recurrences:

In general, the frequency and severity of outbreaks can be positively affected by improving your health and well being.   Regular exercise, rest and relaxation and a healthy diet are all important.   Avoiding excessive exposure to direct sun and heat, tight clothing, hot baths, or any trauma to the involved area may help to reduce the number of outbreaks.   You may also find it helpful to keep a symptom journal in an attempt to identify your particular stressors.     

*The three worst offenders

Supplementation with lysine can also be beneficial in reducing the severity and frequency of outbreaks.   Recommended dosages are 500 mg. daily as a preventive and 1-5 grams daily during an acute outbreak.

In addition, topical ointments are available to reduce the pain of acute lesions and promote healing.  The application of ice can also decrease the pain and duration of lesions.  Consult your physician or call our office about topical treatments, homeopathy, and other botanical or nutritional recommendations for Herpes.

Resources: Werbach, M, Nutritional Influences on Disease; Lichtman, R and Papera, S, Gynecology:  Well Woman Care