Genital Herpes

Genital herpes, or herpes simplex genitalis, is considered the most common infectious genital ulceration in the United States. Recurrent infections affect around 45 million people each year.

The incidence is highest in teens and young adults, and in nonwhite lower socioeconomic population.

Genital herpes is transmitted by vaginal, anal or oro-genital contact. It is caused by either the herpes simplex viruses HSV type I or HSV type II. However, it was found that 80% of initial infections and 95% of recurrent infections are caused by HSV type II.

Most infected individuals are asymptomatic; and therefore, untreated, increasing the risk for transmission and complications. Others experience genital herpes simplex symptoms three to seven days after the exposure to the virus.

Pain and red papules initially appear in the genital area. Afterward, the papules form into small painful fluid-filled blisters, which contain the virus particles. As the blisters break, the virus is spread into its surrounding area, resulting in patches of painful ulcers for six weeks.

Any form of stress can reactivate the virus, resulting in recurrent infections. The symptoms of recurrent infections are less severe than those experienced during the initial infection. Burning, itching and tingling of the areas where the lesions appear have been reported a few days before the outbreak of the lesions.

Natural Cures for Genital Herpes:

Blister Care:

Proper care of blisters is one of the most important home remedies to get rid of pain caused by herpetic lesions.

Always keep the blisters clean and dry, cleanse the lesions two to three times a day with warm water, soap and hydrogen peroxide. Burrow’s solution is also used.

The lesions are dried using a hair dryer turned to a cool setting. A cotton towel may be used to pat dry the affected area.

To prevent trapping of moisture, wear loose and light cotton clothing. Avoid wearing panty hose and tight jeans.

Sitz Bath:

Sitting for 15 minutes in a warm sitz bath three to four times a day gives immediate relief.

Sitz baths can also speed up healing of lesions by drying them out.

Fill your tub with warm water, just enough to immerse your hips and buttocks. Add salt, baking soda or oatmeal to sitz bath water.

Pouring water over the genitals while urinating is also a good remedy for dysuria, or painful urination.

Zinc:

Zinc is found to inhibit the replication of herpes virus.

Research reveals that direct application of zinc sulfate to the lesions significantly reduces the severity and frequency of genital herpes outbreaks.

Taking 15 to 30 mg of zinc supplement every meal also enhances the immune system’s ability to fight infections.

Good Nutrition and Healthy Lifestyle:

A strong immune system can fight off recurrent outbreaks of genital herpes.

Eat a balanced diet with increased intake of foods rich in vitamin C, L – lysine and vitamin B.

Exercise regularly, and avoid alcohol and smoking. Stress is a major factor in causing an outbreak; thus, it is best to learn relaxation techniques to calm the mind, body and spirit.

Getting enough rest and sleep may also prevent herpes recurrences.