Herpes Relief

Herpes is a virus that is spread through skin contact, such as kissing and sexual intercourse. The virus usually appears as a cold sore near or on the lips or on the genitals. Because the virus targets the immune system, you will be prone to having flare-ups when you are stressed or ill. The key to managing your herpes is to take your medication at the first sign of an outbreak and keep your stress levels low.

Medication

• Topical creams such as Abreva are suitable for cold sores, as they shorten healing time and symptoms associated with herpes. Common symptoms of cold sores including a burning, itching sensation and sometimes cracking and bleeding. Visit your physician to receive prescription oral medications Valtrex, Zovirax or Famvir to shorten the outbreak and prevent future ones.

Diet

• According to Herpes.com, a diet that is high in the amino acid lysine and low in arginine can help suppress the virus. Foods that are high in lysine include chicken, milk, cheese, beef, lamb, fish, and most fruits and vegetables. Limit or eliminate foods such as oats, chocolate, white flour, whole grain, peanuts and soybeans, as they have more arginine than lysine.

Stress and Environmental Factors

• According to the Mayo Clinic, your immune system responds to certain triggers by causing a flare-up of the virus. Triggers for flare-ups include: fatigue, stress, cold weather, hormone imbalances, sun exposure and having a cold or flu. To reduce flare-ups, get proper rest and take a multivitamins to keep your immune system healthy. If you have genital herpes, Herpes.com suggests taking a warm shower to properly clean the genitals. Gently pat the area dry or use a hair dryer on the "Cool" setting, and avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing, as it can irritate the sores. Avoid being in the sun from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., when the sun is the most direct, and exposure to UV-B rays is high.