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Herpes Blisters Treatment

When you're infected with the herpes simplex virus, it is fairly common for blisters to form during an actual outbreak. These blisters are usually preceded by some level of pain or itching in and around the area of exposure, indicating that a "flare-up" is eminent. As the blisters form, they often start out as small, red bumps that later ulcerate and can even bleed, sometimes causing the individual additional discomfort. Over time, these sores will eventually heal on their own, but there are things you can do to help expedite this process of healing.

  1. Genital Herpes

    • With genital herpes, the most common form of treatment for the associated blisters is the same as the infection itself--antiviral drugs. The type of antiviral drug prescribed is really dependent on the person and severity of the infection, but will usually entail a course of acyclovir, valacyclovir or famciclovir. For many people, a prescription is taken as a curative form of treatment, meaning it is only used during an outbreak to accelerate the healing of the blisters and decrease the intensity of the infection. But due the safety of these drugs, it's also quite common for a prescription to be taken each day to help prevent blisters from ever forming. Your doctor will help you decide what mode of care is best for you.

    Oral Herpes

    • While some people may believe herpes only affects the genitals, it is also possible to contract the oral strain of this infection. Often referred to as simply a cold sore, this type of blister, which is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), responds favorably to antiviral drugs much like the genital form of the condition. However, "oral" herpes doesn't solely rely on oral medications for treatment. A nonprescription topical ointment containing lidocaine or benzyl alcohol may also be used to treat these blisters.

      Though not a "true" treatment, you may also find some relief from these blisters by taking an anti-inflammatory or pain reliever, such as aspirin, ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as well as applying ice or a heated washcloth to the area suffering from an outbreak of fever blisters. Neither methods of care aid in the actual healing of these blisters, they only lessen the pain commonly associated with the condition.

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