Herpes is a viral infection which results in the appearance of painful blisters in different areas of the body. Although it is a mild infection, in some cases, it can be quite irritating when the blisters get painful, itchy and recur periodically. In the case of pregnancy or a weak immune system, this condition can become fatal. All in all, you need to make sure that you’re on the right path of recovery when it comes to changing habits and maintaining cleanliness.

Maintain hygiene
Make sure you’re not touching any open sores during an outbreak or beforehand. Wash your hands each time you do so. Don’t kiss someone if you have an open sore or share drinks and utensils. Also, avoid sharing a toothbrush, lip balm or makeup items with others to lower risk for transmission. Get a new toothbrush once the sore heals as it’s possible for secretions to remain on your brush for a longer period.

Keep a natural skin care routine
To decrease irritation, use an all natural, mild soap and warm water on the sores. Don’t pick, attempt to pop or rub the sores. Don’t apply over-the-counter anti-itch creams, petroleum jelly, salves or other products that can worsen the swelling. Use natural essential oils and homemade skin cleansers instead.

Follow home remedies
If the sore causes severe pain, press a warm towel against the affected area to reduce the pain, or soak your body in a warm bath or take a warm shower so that the heat would soothe the pain in the affected area. Ensure that you use a separate towel on your genitals near any open sores, and do not use the same towel for your mouth. It is possible for the virus to be transmitted from one location of the body to another, but this limits the likelihood.

Apart from the above suggestions, allow the sores to be exposed to air, talk to the doctor about medications, and use the recommended ointments to speed the healing process. And to reduce and prevent outbreaks, take precautionary measures such as reducing prolonged exposure to sunlight, reducing friction during sex, and managing stress. Follow these measures and find quick relief from herpes.