In the case of an initial infection, we use antivirals – active substances that prevent the herpes viruses from multiplying. Typical medications are acyclovir, famciclovir and valaciclovir. You can take the active ingredients in tablet form. Since a herpes infection can also cause severe pain, painkillers are also administered. In rare cases, the pain can be so severe that it is no longer possible to urinate. In such situations, the emergency ward should definitely be visited. There are also ointments that anesthetize such painful areas. If treatment is started early, there are often hardly any of the annoying blisters.
However, the herpes viruses remain in the body of those affected forever. If the immune system is stressed or otherwise weakened, the disease can break out again at any time. In the event of a relapse, treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms. If the symptoms are mild, no treatment or treatment with virostatic tablets can be given. Painkillers can be taken if necessary. In the case of moderate symptoms or longer intervals between the onset of the disease, patients should take the tablets as soon as the symptoms appear. This treatment should begin within 24 hours of the first symptoms appearing. If the symptoms are severe and if you suffer from recurrent outbreaks of the disease at short intervals, you can take permanent tablets to treat it. This suppresses the production of viruses in the long term. This treatment is also recommended for patients with sexual partners who do not have a herpes infection. Those affected usually have to take one tablet in the morning and one in the evening. During this treatment, the patient is only slightly contagious. In addition, condoms can provide at least limited protection against infection.