Herpes: Caring for Sores
Good hygiene matters when you have herpes. Take care of your sores to speed healing. Sores that are not cared for correctly can lead to other infections.
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| Warm baths can ease itching and burning caused by sores. |
To ease your symptoms
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Take any medicines as directed.
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Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain.
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Take warm or cool baths to ease itching of sores. And don’t share towels or other personal items when you have a sore.
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Women may find it helpful to urinate in a tub of warm water to prevent burning.
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Don’t wear tight clothes or nylon underwear. They can trap moisture, cause chafing, and prevent sores from healing.
To speed healing
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Wash the sores with mild soap and water. And wash your hands for 15 to 30 seconds after you touch a sore.
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Dry the affected area completely by patting a towel over it. Don't rub. Don't share towels.
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Don’t bandage sores. The dry air helps them heal.
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Don't use ointments unless they are prescribed. They hold in moisture and may cause other infections.
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Don’t pick at the sores. This can slow healing.
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Don’t touch your eyes when you have a sore. The virus may travel from your fingertips to your eyes.
Online Medical Reviewer:
Barry Zingman MD
Online Medical Reviewer:
Marianne Fraser MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer:
Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN
Date Last Reviewed:
6/1/2019
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