What Are the Treatments for Oral HPV?

Human Papilloma Virus, commonly known as HPV, is a viral infection that is estimated to infect nearly 80% of Americans by the time they reach the age of 50. Although most people with HPV experience no symptoms, HPV is known to cause warts, genital warts, cervical cancer, and mouth cancer in a small percentage of those infected. When it comes to oral HPV, most people are asymptomatic. The best defense against complications from oral HPV is to keep yourself as healthy as possible.

Instructions

• 1

  See your doctor. Even if you've been previously diagnosed with a strain of HPV don't assume that the lesions occurring in your mouth are caused by oral HPV. The most common form of HPV, the one that is known to cause outbreaks of genital warts, does not also cause oral HPV. The oral lesions could be caused by a number of non-HPV-related factors, including thrush and the common cold sore.

• 2

  Boost your immune system. Studies have shown that HPV-related outbreaks occur most often in people who have weakened immune systems due to HIV, AIDS or other illnesses. Because HPV outbreaks target people with lowered immune systems, everyone with HPV can benefit from boosting their immune system. Try taking a daily supplement designed to boost your immune system. Many brands are available, but some of the most popular are Viralfree, ActivaMune and Beta-mannan.

• 3

  Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Follow the USDA's guidelines for healthy eating found at MyPyramid.gov. Eating a diet that's high in heart-healthy grains and protein--as well as low in fat and sugar--will help keep your body healthy and in shape.

• 4

  Exercise regularly. Find at least a few minutes everyday to workout to help keep your body in shape. If possible, go for a brisk thirty-minute walk when you get up in the morning and then again after dinner. Staying active is key to maintaining your health.

• 5

  Drink plenty of water. Health experts recommend drinking between six to eight glasses of water everyday to maintain good health. If you don't care for the taste of plain water, you can jazz up your H20 with a twist of lemon, orange or lime for a more tasty beverage.