The “vital” question is how long does it take for herpes to go away?

Treatment of herpes on the body

Herpes or herpes virus type 3 appears on the body suddenly, and the success of treatment directly depends on how quickly treatment was started.
At the first signs of a herpetic rash, the following medications should be used: For pediatric or elderly patients with herpes zoster, a specialist may prescribe physiotherapeutic procedures. Physiotherapy in this case acts as an immunostimulant. Patients are usually prescribed ultraviolet radiation or laser therapy to the sites of herpetic eruptions - this stimulates immunobiological processes in tissues, and also has a bactericidal and mild analgesic effect.

Herpes on the body or herpes zoster is quite possible to treat with folk remedies. Compresses with a decoction of medicinal herbs - elecampane, calendula, wormwood, tansy, and immortelle - can be applied to the affected areas of the skin for a short time. You can also use natural antiseptics for compresses - onions, garlic, honey.

People suffering from herpes zoster should know that the disease is contagious. Infection can occur at the stage of the appearance of vesicles with serous fluid. Once crusts form on the surface of the skin, the disease is no longer dangerous, but some precautions should still be taken.

A person with herpes must have his own separate towel, which the rest of the family cannot use. It is also recommended to reduce tactile contact with strangers, especially children.

If possible, frequent contact with water and cosmetics (gels, shampoos) should be avoided. During your illness, you should avoid scrubbing - using it can cause rashes to spread throughout your body. During an exacerbation of the disease, it is recommended to shower once every two days.

It is recommended to wear cotton underwear until crusts form. If the ulcers burst and the serous fluid spills out, the hygroscopic tissue will perfectly absorb moisture, therefore, the risk of developing a secondary infection is reduced.

Doctors unanimously say that herpes zoster cannot be treated with hormonal drugs - they will only worsen the situation. Hormones in some way affect the immune system, which is undesirable for a person with herpes.

You should not burn the affected areas of the skin with alcohol-containing liquids, for example, iodine, brilliant green, fucorcin and others, for example, a strong solution of potassium permanganate. These products do not in any way affect the herpes virus, but they can cause a burn on the skin.

Periods of development of herpes

Oral herpes infection occurs in early childhood. A baby can become infected in the womb or after birth, when parents or other relatives hug and kiss him. The initial symptoms do not cause concern among parents; they are similar in their manifestations to teething in children.

But the virus settles permanently in the body and makes itself felt when immunity decreases. The incubation period of the disease will last as long as the person is healthy and the body’s defenses are strong. As soon as a person experiences stress, gets sick, is overheated or hypothermic, the virus becomes more active and manifests itself by the formation of blisters on the lip.

The rashes are painful, they cause discomfort, not only physical, but also psychological. It seems to a person that everyone is paying attention to him, he experiences a feeling of shame. Oral herpes is highly contagious and is transmitted through direct skin-to-skin contact, through household items and hygiene products. The infection is asymptomatic; there is no fever, chills or other manifestations of herpes infection.

The incubation period can quickly develop into an acute period, which is more severe. This is facilitated by hypothermia, overheating of the body, decreased immunity, intoxication, exposure to sunlight, stress, depression, physical exhaustion, vitamin deficiency, premenstrual state in women, hormonal fluctuations, the appearance of wounds and cracks on the lips and oral cavity.

Conventionally, there are 5 main stages of development of herpes infection, which take place over 10-12 days.

The stages of herpes have their own symptoms and signs:

1. The appearance of harbingers. During this period, a slight tingling, itching, burning sensation, and slight discomfort on the skin or mucous membranes are felt, where rashes will subsequently appear. Swelling and redness gradually develops. At this stage, it is possible to prevent the development of the disease by using Acyclovir or other drugs based on it. A person is not yet contagious; if antiviral drugs and vitamin complexes are used, the herpes virus will remain in a “dormant” state.
2. The appearance of bubbles. When rashes occur with liquid filling, a person becomes an active carrier of infection. Inside the liquid there are more than a million infected microparticles. At this stage, which lasts 2-4 days, pain is relieved with a small ice-water-salt compress with mint extract.
3. Formation of erosion. The stage is considered the most contagious. The thin walls of the vesicles burst, the infectious serous fluid flows out, spreading infectious microparticles. Sores appear in place of the former blisters. If you touch them with your hands, herpes can be spread throughout the body, which can subsequently cause serious complications.
4. Scabs. After a day or two, the ulcers heal and become covered with a crust. During this period, the person again becomes practically non-infectious (with the exception of injury to the crusts). Over time, the immune system is restored, the scab disappears, and the skin becomes clean again. At this time, lubricating the damaged skin with fir and sea buckthorn oils helps to cope with wound healing.

In contrast to the incubation period, the acute phase of the disease does not last long (about 5 days). During this period, you need to monitor hygiene and constantly lubricate the sores with Acyclovir ointment.

The period from the appearance of initial signs to complete cleansing of the skin is 7-10 days.

The picture of herpetic manifestations depends not only on the state of a person’s immunity, but also on general health, as well as on the prerequisites that provoked the acute phase of the disease. The rash can cover the entire body or appear as a single instance.

Wound healing depends on many factors:

• body reaction;
• a person's concern for his health;
• intensity of relapse.

The relapse is delayed, the disease does not go away for a long time in the event of a bacterial infection. This occurs as a result of peeling off the crusts. An unhealed wound surface becomes a site for attack by pathogenic bacteria.

Treatment of herpes on the body

Herpes is a virus that forms on the mucous membrane, genitals, body, a large number of blisters appear, they burn, itch and hurt. The herpes virus most often appears when the immune system is weakened. Does not always have clinical symptoms. Herpes appears differently for everyone; it is important to treat the skin lesions in a timely manner; if this is not done, a secondary infection may develop.

Most often it appears due to the fact that a person has had chickenpox. After a person recovers, relief does not come. The virus settles in the nerve tissues of the brain, waits until the immune system decreases and begins to become active. Most of all, herpes on the body affects the skin of older people if a person is exposed to emotional or physical stress, also when he is very cold.

1. Disease of internal organs of a chronic nature.

2. Weakened immune system.

3. Liver diseases.

4. Diabetes mellitus.

6. If a person takes corticosteroids orally for a long time.

7. Malignant tumor.

8. As a result of treatment with radiation, chemotherapy.

9. For diseases of the circulatory system.

10. Due to poor nutrition, physical and psychological overload.

11. As a consequence of injury.

1. Problems with the digestive process.

2. The body temperature rises sharply, the person weakens, and there is pain in different parts of the body.

3. The area with herpetic rashes is especially affected.

4. The disease most often progresses over 4 days, different symptoms may be observed, and the person suffers from intoxication of the body.

5. A large number of blistering rashes appear. When the virus begins to actively multiply, some nerve trunks are affected.

6. Most often, herpes on the body occurs on the thighs, near the genitals. The rash looks like vesicles, red lumps, paroxysmal pain worsens at night.

7. In cases where the facial nerve is affected, sensitivity is lost.

8. After the temperature drops, the patient feels better.

How the disease progresses depends on the immune system. In severe cases, if body herpes lasts for a long time, it begins to affect the nerve of the face, head, eyelids, and cornea.

When severe pain occurs, after which the whole body is covered with a large number of blisters, they begin to itch very much and burn, urgent measures must be taken. The course of therapy is selected depending on how extensive the herpes is and the age of the patient. It is important that the patient is examined by an immunologist, endocrinologist, and infectious disease specialist. First, medications for herpes may be prescribed:

1. Groups Acyclovir – Virolex, Valtrex.

2. Alpizarin ointment.

3. Treat the skin with Viru Merz Serol, Panavir, Banafton, Alpizarin; it is additionally recommended to use Depanthenol.

5. One of the best medicinal ointments is Zoster.

In no case should you use glucocorticosteroid ointment; with herpes, everything can end in serious consequences. Before buying a product, you should definitely consult with your doctor, then pay attention to the composition, methods of use, and side effects. To numb the affected area, use an ointment and gel containing acetaminophen. Naproxen and Lidocoine are especially effective. To reduce the temperature you need to take Ibuprofen and Paracetamol. If you have herpes, it is important to strengthen your immune system. It is recommended to use modulating agents for the immune system; treatment with Cycloferon and Polyoxidonium is effective.

For herpes on the body, the course of treatment must include taking vitamins A, B, C, E. If you choose a course of therapy in a timely manner, you can achieve amazing results. Often after a patient undergoes a course of therapy, he continues to have pain for a month, has neuralgia for a long time, and has problems with sensitivity, especially in old age.

This type of treatment is the best immunostimulating agent. Treatment with ultraviolet rays and laser is often prescribed, this way you can improve the immunobiological process in tissues, remove bacteria, and get rid of pain.

Please note that blisters containing serous fluid can become infected. Herpes is not dangerous when crusts form on the skin, despite this, urgent measures must be taken.

The patient must have his own towel; others cannot use it. Have as little contact with children as possible. Do not use shampoos, gels, try not to wet the affected area. You should not use a scrub; it can cause rashes all over your body. When the disease worsens, you should take a shower once every three days. Until crusts form, you need to wear only cotton underwear, this will protect you from secondary infection.

It is contraindicated to use hormonal drugs, which can lead to serious consequences; they affect the immune system. Fucorcin, iodine, brilliant green, and potassium permanganate are also prohibited; they can lead to serious skin burns.

For affected areas, it is recommended to use a compress with herbal decoction. The most commonly used herbs for herpes are tansy, elecampane, immortelle, wormwood, and calendula. Make compresses with garlic, honey, onions. This is one of the best antiseptics.

So, there are a large number of ways to treat herpes on the body; the patient himself individually selects the appropriate method for himself.

How long does it take for herpes to heal and how to speed up healing?

Herpes is a disease that most people encounter in childhood.
After infection, the virus remains in the body for life, and when the activity of the body’s defenses decreases, it recurs. The frequency of exacerbations depends on the state of the human body and his lifestyle. Therefore, some people almost constantly suffer from blistering rashes near the lips, while others encounter pathologies only a few times. For the second category, the question of how many days does herpes go away is more relevant.

Stages of the disease

The active stage of herpes passes sequentially through several stages, the duration of which may vary, depending on the treatment tactics:

• Prodromal stage . Itching, burning, and tingling may occur on the skin in the place where blisters will appear in the future.
• Activation stage . The moment of activation of the virus begins after 24-36 hours with redness and swelling of the skin.
• Rash formation . After a few hours, small rash blisters filled with clear liquid appear at the site of itching and redness. If you do not touch the rash with your hands or try to open them, the period of development of the disease will end in a couple of days.
• Opening the bubbles . During random opening of the rash, a person is extremely contagious. The sores can hurt and itch: if a person touches them with his hands, he can transfer the infection not only to other people, but also to himself. Self-infection often causes genital herpes.
• Healing and recovery . After 2-3 days, crusts appear on the ulcers. After they fall away without leaving a trace behind, recovery begins. Until the next relapse, manifestations of the herpes virus do not bother you.

All the stages described can be completed in 5-7 days. But in practice, the time it takes for herpes to go away on the face and body can vary significantly, both up and down.

What determines the duration of relapse?

The duration of the exacerbation of the virus can be judged by the state of the immune system.

Normally, a relapse should end in a week, since during this time immunoglobulins - antibodies that fight the virus - have time to be produced.

If the rash lasts up to 15 days, we can talk about a decrease in the activity of the body’s defenses: due to recently suffered diseases and operations, chronic foci of infection.

Prolong illness time:

• Endocrine diseases.
• Hormonal imbalances.
• Diabetes.
• Stress.
• Physical exhausting work.
• Lack of sleep.
• Any chronic pathologies that often recur.

In the event that a relapse of herpes lasts longer than 20 days, immunodeficiency or oncology can be suspected.

In normal health, you can slow down your recovery time if:

• Failure to start antiviral drug therapy on time.
• Touch the rash with dirty hands.
• Open and puncture the rash blisters.
• Tear off crusts from ulcers.

A doctor should treat herpes on the body and face. In case of repeated manifestations of the disease, the patient can independently stop the manifestations of the virus, relying on previous prescriptions. If the clinical picture is different, you should immediately contact a specialist.

How to speed up recovery

There are several ways to shorten the active stage of the disease. Drug therapy helps speed up recovery time several times. If you manage to take an antiviral drug before the rash appears, the herpes will go away instantly.

Important! It is useless to take antiherpetic drugs for prevention purposes. They can only affect the virus during its active stage.

When there is no medicine at hand, you can try using a method that promises a quick effect: you can cauterize the rash with alcohol or sulfur from a match head.

If you are unable to take the pill right away, you need to take the medications as usual. You can supplement oral medications with ointments. Then the rashes will heal much faster.

Acyclovir, Valaciclovir and Famciclovir cannot be replaced with traditional medicine. They can serve as an additional lever of influence on the disease, but not as the main method of therapy. It must be remembered that plant extracts can interact with the active ingredients of drugs. Therefore, before starting herbal medicine, you should consult with your doctor.

Some sources recommend drinking vitamin C to boost immunity. But this method of treatment is useless: ascorbic acid strengthens blood vessels and enhances skin protection from sun rays. But its effect on the immune system is a common myth.

However, vitamins are needed during therapy, and it is better to get them from food. The menu should be enriched with herbs, vegetables and fruits, and it is better to avoid pickles, weak foods and smoked meats.

How to prevent the development of herpes

Herpes infection occurs under the influence of:

• The virus itself.
• Decreased immune activity.

Since the herpes simplex virus affects the vast majority of people, it is difficult to protect yourself from infection completely. Moreover, infection entails the development of stable immunity, which can be useful during pregnancy and drug immunosuppression, which is prescribed for oncology and autoimmune processes.

But it is within the power of a person to strengthen the immune system so that the body itself keeps the virus in an inactive state. To do this you need:

• Avoid stress.
• Eliminate foci of chronic infection in a timely manner.
• Do not abuse alcohol.
• Eat properly.
• Avoid hypothermia and overheating.

The body's local immunity must be maintained, making sure that there are no cracks or injuries on the lips and in the oral cavity, which could have a negative impact.

A herpetic infection in the acute stage can be eliminated in just a few hours if you always keep the necessary antiviral agents in your home medicine cabinet. Herpes is easy to treat, but frequent exacerbations indicate problems with the immune system, so it is better for such people to get tested and find out what factor suppresses the body’s defense systems.

09.09.2019

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Source: https://BezBolezni.info/gerpes/cherez-skolko-prohodit-gerpes.html

Herpes on the body - treatment

Herpes is an acute viral disease that manifests itself as rashes, itching and pain. Herpes on the body, the treatment of which is discussed below, occurs due to the activation of the chickenpox virus, which lives in the nerve cells of those who suffered this disease in childhood.

The appearance of small ulcers and blisters on the surface of the skin indicates the development of an infection. Herpes that affects the body is often called shingles. Even chickenpox. which is caused by a herpetic virus, almost everyone gets sick at an early age, the virus persists and becomes more active when the immune system is weakened. Thus, elderly people with reduced immunity most often encounter this disease.

In addition, factors causing the development of infection are:

• increased emotional stress;
• chronic diseases;
• diabetes;
• liver diseases;
• oncological diseases.

The degree of damage depends on the type of pathogen. Today, there are eight different manifestations of the disease:

1. The most common is herpes virus 1, which is accompanied by a rash on the lips.
2. The second type of virus is accompanied by the appearance of a rash on the reproductive organs.
3. Varicella zoster virus (type three) causes itching and rashes on the skin.
4. Epstein-Barr virus (type four), which causes mononucleosis and lymphogranulomatosis.
5. The fifth type is classified as a sexually transmitted infection.
6. There are also pathogens of types 6, 7 and 8, which negatively affect the organs of the nervous system. However, their effect has not been fully studied.

Currently there is no definite way to cure the disease. However, regularly taking certain medications, using creams and folk remedies will help eliminate the symptoms of the disease and stop the development of the virus.

To combat herpes on the body, treatment is carried out with the following drugs:

These drugs are characterized by high efficiency, the ability to block the growth of viral cells and resist infection of healthy tissues of the body. Moreover, the last two drugs differ from the others in their longer action, which makes it possible to reduce the frequency of using herpes tablets on the body.

Also among the most common drugs are the antiviral drugs Isoprinosine and Foscarnet.

The form of use and duration of medication depends on the degree of damage and the form of infection. The greatest effectiveness of the use of antiviral agents is achieved during the first 24 hours of the onset of the rash.

To eliminate the rash, antihistamines are prescribed:

Cardiac glycosides and anticonvulsants help cope with signs of obvious intoxication.

Herpes on the skin of the body is also treated by taking immunomodulators, which is especially necessary for older people. To increase the body's resistance, it is recommended to drink Polyoxidonium and Cycloferon. It is also important to compensate for the lack of vitamins (C, E and A) and minerals.

In addition to taking medications, therapy includes the application of various creams and ointments that can significantly improve the patient’s condition:

• antiviral ointments and sprays (Zovirax, Herperax, Viru-merz-serol).
• ointments promoting healing (gray Panthenol, Depanthenol).
• antiseptic ointments that prevent infection (zinc ointment, Miramistin, streptocide, Chlorhexidine).
• painkillers, which include creams containing acetaminophen and lidocaine.

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Herpes invades a human cell, locating itself in its gene structure. Therefore, viral agents are able to be transmitted to subsequent generations of cells. This is the peculiarity of the pathology - once infected, a person is no longer able to completely get rid of herpes.

Medical statistics indicate that more than 75% of the population are direct carriers of viral agents of any of the 8 variants of herpes, while most of them simply do not know about it - there are no clinical manifestations.

Is it possible to speed up the treatment of a cold on the lip?

The duration of the disease is often determined by the completeness of the immune response, the timeliness and adequacy of treatment measures.

Recommended treatment depends on the phase of the course (acute, recurrent). When treating exacerbations, their frequency is taken into account. A relapse of herpesvirus infection in humans is considered normal no more than 3-4 times a year.

Treatment is carried out with the aim of suppressing viral reproduction, accelerating the recovery process, and reducing the number of exacerbation episodes. The therapy provided includes systemic and local drugs:

• antiviral - Acyclovir or Famciclovir, Valtrex;
• immunomodulatory - Kagocel, Amiksin, Cycloferon;
• vitamin complexes;
• creams, ointments – Zovirax, Bonafton, Infagel;
• antiseptic solutions - Miramistin, Chlorhexidine.

Systemic antiviral drugs are prescribed by a doctor in the dosage recommended for mild, moderate and severe cases. They can be taken outside of exacerbations for preventive purposes according to the regimen recommended by a specialist.

The recurrent nature of the infection is an indication for the use of immunomodulatory drugs. Using special ointments when the first signs of discomfort occur helps prevent the appearance of rashes.

Important!

Treating the affected areas with special solutions that have antiseptic properties helps speed up the healing of wounds and prevent infection.

Some traditional medicines are highly effective. Applying a paste of activated carbon and water to the blister in the lip and nose area helps to dry, exfoliate and eliminate it. Zinc ointment has similar properties.

How contagious is herpes?

The herpes simplex virus can penetrate into the human body extremely easily through existing microcracks and microtraumas in tissues, through the use of common household items, for example, a towel, bed linen, and even through direct contact by airborne droplets.

A person who is a carrier of herpetic pathology may not even think about the fact that he is a potential primary source of infection. A pregnant woman, for example, can transmit the herpes virus to her baby during its fetal development.

Therefore, when faced with unaesthetic rashes on the lips, the patient during the consultation asks the specialist a well-founded question, how long does it take for herpes to go away. At the same time, you receive the not entirely expected answer that this relapse can be stopped in 5-7 days, but the infection itself is almost impossible to defeat.

What to do to avoid infecting loved ones?

Nine out of ten people on the planet are carriers of the herpes virus. However, the need for prevention does not lose its expediency. Preventing the spread of the virus is especially important if there is a small child in the family.

Infection in children under 6–12 months is considered rare. Infants are reliably protected from herpesvirus infection by maternal antibodies produced in the prenatal period. Gradually, innate immunity is lost, and the immune system learns to cope with its functions independently.

Preventive measures to prevent infection include the use of gauze dressings, which must be changed regularly, and frequent hand washing with soap. If the baby is breastfed, the mother can transmit the virus through her milk.

Important!

The presence of infection in the mother is not a contraindication to feeding. Together with breast milk, the antibodies produced will penetrate into the baby’s body, functioning like a vaccination.

General recommendations

Timely preventive measures will help avoid relapse of herpes virus infection. Medicine advises paying attention to the following important points:

• Timely treatment . Oral medications are prescribed when the clinical picture is severe. However, herpetic rashes also require regular antiseptic treatment. This will shorten the period of infection and reduce the risk of its spread.
• Preventing direct contact . During the first few days after the rash appears, the virus can spread to the skin and mucous membranes of another person during kissing and hugging. This is due to the fact that the vesicle contains a huge number of herpes virus particles.
• Observe the necessary hygiene rules . Treatment of rashes on the lips involves applying special ointments exclusively with cotton swabs, which will prevent the virus from being transferred to other parts of the body. Regular hand washing and the use of antibacterial wipes can help prevent the spread of infection.
• Use of separate dishes, towels . To minimize the risk of spreading herpes virus infection through shared objects, you need to provide a separate container for the sick person. To perform hygiene procedures, for example, when washing, it is advisable to use disposable towels.

Simple rules will help protect loved ones from infection and prevent possible complications.

Where it all begins

Infection with viral agents of a simple variant of herpes, as a rule, occurs in early childhood, for example, common chickenpox, this is the same herpes. In children's organized groups, this pathology of a viral nature is extremely contagious. Every year, kindergartens are closed for chickenpox quarantine.

After the initial stage of infection, the human immune system successfully inactivates the virus, but viral agents persist in the dorsal root ganglia. The latent phase of the pathology is formed - the virus itself can be detected by conducting appropriate diagnostic tests, but no clinical manifestations are observed.

Manifestations of virus types during the incubation period

Transmission of the virus occurs through contact between people. At the first stage, herpes is in “sleeping mode” from a day to 21 days. Each type of infection has its own period.

The most common type of herpes can show symptoms immediately after entering the body. Children are susceptible to this. The incubation period ranges from several days to 14 days.

The skin (nose wings, lips) and mucous membranes are affected. If the virus enters the human body for the first time, signs of the disease may appear within a day or a week.

This condition is characterized by the following symptoms: a person feels chills, experiences headaches, general weakness and fatigue.

First, the mucous membranes in the mouth or lips become covered with blistering formations. Then the bubbles burst.

The incubation period for genital herpes ranges from 5 to 7 days. After this, the bubbles cover the genitals. They begin to cause discomfort, itch, and pain.

Shingles is different in that its neutral period can span many years. If a person became infected with this herpes virus in childhood, then external signs may appear decades later. Therefore, this disease is common among those over 30.

The herpes virus is one of the most common infections on the planet. Almost all people are carriers of the strains, but not everyone gets sick. About 5% of the population suffers from manifestations of the disease.

The very concept of an incubation period is relative, since each organism has an individual immune system, which is a deterrent to the spread of infection.

Young children and the elderly suffer the most from the virus, as their immune strength is weakened. In children, symptoms are more pronounced, which manifest themselves in a short time.

In order to weaken the impact of the virus, you need to monitor your immunity and also get vaccinated in a timely manner.

Predisposing factors

The total number of relapses with characteristic clinical manifestations in the form of very painful and unaesthetic blistering rashes can vary greatly from 2 to 12 per year.

Provoking factors for herpes activation:

Among other negative factors, experts indicate:

• abuse of alcohol and tobacco products;
• lack of quality night rest;
• uncorrected diet;
• frequent hypothermia;
• industrial hazards, intoxication;
• gastrointestinal pathologies.

Having carefully analyzed his own situation, a person can identify and eliminate the above-mentioned negative factors, thereby preventing the relapse or onset of herpes.

Symptoms

At the initial stage, a person feels a local tingling of the tissues of the lips, which can turn into periodic burning and itching. After 1-2 days, vesicular formations form - herpetic nodules. They quickly increase in size, become very sensitive, painful, and not attractive in appearance.

In addition to a deterioration in the quality of life, herpes can also be accompanied by an increase in temperature parameters and an increase in regional lymph nodes. Herpetic rashes form not only on the lips, but also on any part of the body - face, body, limbs.

The blisters ulcerate within 2-3 days from the moment of their formation. They are covered with a crust that gradually hardens. After its removal, the area of ​​tissue remains light.

A person who has developed unaesthetic rashes is, of course, interested in the question of how long herpes lasts, and this is 4-6 days from the moment of the first symptoms.

Methods to speed up recovery

To ensure that simple genital or herpes zoster does not linger for a long time, at the first manifestation of symptomatic signs, all efforts should be directed not only to its elimination, but also to strengthening the immune defense. To do this, it is recommended to use plant-based immunomodulators in the form of tincture of Eleutherococcus or Echinacea. Isoprinosine tablets have no less effect. The duration of taking these drugs and dosage should only be prescribed by a doctor.

An important aspect of successful treatment is the use of antiviral drugs, among which the most effective are:

• Acyclovir tablets, gels and ointments;
• Zovirax cream;
• Bonafton ointment.

To speed up the healing process, traditional methods of treatment can also be used, in the form of:

• aloe or lemon juice;
• table salt;
• garlic cloves.

It is recommended to use the juice to lubricate wounds and blisters, and garlic cloves and salt should be applied to the affected areas.

Stages of herpes

Experts have identified the stages of pathology:

1. On the first day of activation of viral agents, a person experiences some anxiety - itching, burning, and tingling are locally felt in a separate area of ​​the body. If a person has already encountered herpes, he will immediately recognize the characteristic symptoms.
2. Literally on the same day, tissue swelling and hyperemia are visually noted at the site of tingling. Accompanied by intense itching, the condition lasts 1-2 days.
3. After a short period of time, a person notices the formation of small, painful blisters with serous fluid inside on the hyperemic area. It contains hundreds of thousands of active particles of the virus - a person becomes extremely infectious to others. The formations quickly increase in size, individual bubbles merge, becoming up to 5-6 mm in diameter.
4. On the 3rd day, the vesicles open and their surface becomes ulcerated. Painful sensations intensify - the person cannot eat because of the pain. An unaesthetic appearance causes significant psychological discomfort. In addition to visible defects, lymph nodes may become enlarged and hyperthermia may be observed - sometimes to high levels.
5. As the ulcerative defect dries, a specific crust forms on its surface, and the area of ​​damage shrinks. When the crust peels off, a bleeding crack may appear in its place. The formation of a crust indicates the beginning of the healing process.
6. As herpetic eruptions heal, intense peeling of the affected areas of the dermis, tissue swelling, and a slightly hyperemic tint may be observed. Viral agents become inactive again. With a long-term severe course - in the absence of adequate treatment tactics, after herpetic formations, a scar may form on the dermis.

Having analyzed the above stages of pathology, a person himself can answer the question of how long it takes for herpes to go away, that is, after 3-5 days, with satisfactory immunity, you can again enjoy clear skin.

Duration of illness

According to statistics, herpes lasts from 1 to 2 weeks from the moment it first appears. This time is enough for the body to inactivate the pathogens and prevent re-exacerbation.

Doctors distinguish 3 stages of development of the disease. At the first (initial) stage, itching and a specific feeling of discomfort appear at the sites of the future rash. After a few days, hyperemia and slight swelling of the soft tissue appear in these areas.

Periodicity of development characteristic of herpes:

• Edema and hyperemia.
• The appearance of a rash with translucent liquid.
• Covering with crusts and their healing.

The vesicular rash stage, which often accompanies genital herpes and colds, lasts only a few days. If such signs are present, a person poses a considerable threat to others (as long as herpes lasts, the same amount of time it will release pathogens into the environment).

The vesicular fluid contains a huge number of virulent microorganisms that can infect other people.

After the vesicles comes a period of erosions, which appear after the latter open, with the release of infectious fluid. They will be very sick, but during this period they need to be lubricated with ointments (local antiviral drugs) as often as possible. During this period, the risk of infection has not yet passed, because the patient can infect himself by transferring the pathogen from the infected part of the body to a healthy part. The periods of ulcerative manifestation last about 2-3 days, after which the wounds begin to gradually heal.

Treatment tactics

When the first vesicular rash appears - the moment of the first symptoms has been missed - it is recommended to add systemic drugs to local therapeutic antiviral agents: Acyclovir tablets, Zovirax, Panavir, Famvir. They prevent viral activity from the inside, providing a powerful systemic effect. Thanks to which it is possible to reduce the period of ulcerative tissue defects from 3 days to 1-2 days. A faster effect is hardly possible - tissue damage has already occurred.

Once the blisters are opened, it is unlikely that it will be possible to speed up the healing process. Various alcohol tinctures come to the rescue, for example, based on calendula to dry out defects and prevent their re-infection, this time only with bacterial flora.

Modern immunostimulants and vitamin complexes help increase the defenses of the human body at the time of activation of the herpes virus. During the consultation, in addition to the optimal option of antiviral therapy, the specialist will also recommend auxiliary medications, for example, Immunal, Centrum, Vitrum.

Why does herpes not go away for a long time?

Experts point to several of the most important reasons why herpes does not go away for a long time:

• inadequate treatment, or its complete absence. Exacerbation of herpetic rashes requires regular use of modern antiherpetic ointments, tablets, immunomodulators, vitamin therapy;
• using only traditional medicine recipes - without prior agreement with a specialist, without adequate support with special antiviral drugs;
• the presence of other somatic pathologies in the acute stage, which repeatedly weakens the protective forces of the human body. Only a combination of measures aimed at managing both pathologies;
• constant infection of tissues due to the opening of herpetic blisters and weakness of local immunity: a person does not treat the opened defects with alcohol tinctures, and basic hygiene standards are not observed;

Every exacerbation of herpes – even if it is 20 times worse – requires mandatory consultation with a specialist. Especially if the symptoms are too severe or healing is extremely slow.

Video. Herpes – School of Dr. Komarovsky

As you can see, your attentiveness and speed play a big role in the process of recovery and getting rid of unpleasant symptoms. In cases where herpes does not go away for a long time even during treatment, or relapses appear more often than we would like, it is necessary to consult an immunologist.

I am engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of acne, I am fluent in the methods of therapeutic and hardware cosmetology to reduce the severity and eliminate age-related changes in the skin of the face and body. I have extensive theoretical knowledge and experience acquired during training and internships in leading cosmetology clinics in Europe.

General recommendations

To effectively protect against exacerbation of herpes infection, it is recommended to follow the general rules:

• lead a healthy lifestyle - diet therapy, adequate physical activity, a good night's rest;
• moderate exposure to UV rays, careful protection of the dermis with UV protective creams;
• avoid prolonged stay in a stressful situation - go on vacation, attend yoga classes, learn relaxation techniques;
• regular visits to specialists - with monitoring of diagnostic studies: strong immunity requires regular monitoring.

Viral infection - herpes - is a complex pathology that requires complex measures to relieve symptoms. With adequate treatment tactics, unaesthetic rashes can be stopped in literally 1-3 days. Self-medication is absolutely prohibited - severe complications can only worsen a person’s well-being.

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In nature, there are many microorganisms that settle in the human body once and for all. This feature is more typical for viruses.

Herpes probably surpassed everyone. The prevalence of viruses of the Herpesviridae family is such that up to 90% of all adults are infected with them, and clinical manifestations are observed at least once in their lives in approximately 20% of those infected.

Prevention measures

To prevent relapses of exacerbation of herpes infection, you should completely review your lifestyle and regularly strengthen your immune system.

To do this you need:

• follow the rules of a healthy lifestyle;
• timely eliminate symptomatic manifestations of colds;
• take vitamin complexes;
• harden the body.

Diet is also very important for maintaining health, and therefore it is recommended to include a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy and meat products in your diet.

characteristics of the pathogen

The family received its name due to the peculiarities of its symptoms. Translated from Greek, herpo means to crawl. The unpredictable spread of a vesicular rash across the skin from attack to attack is one of the defining symptoms of herpes.

Among the large family Herpesviridae, 8 representatives are pathogenic (can cause diseases) for humans. Skin manifestations are most often caused by three types:

The others are also not harmless, but the characteristic rash on the body appears mainly with active HHV 1 and HHV 2. Moreover, together they feel good, coexist comfortably and can cause a combined mixed infection.

Diet

During treatment, to reduce symptoms, follow a diet that is high in lysine. This is milk and fermented milk products: cottage cheese, fermented baked milk, kefir, yogurt (preferably unsweetened). Eat seaweed salad, it is rich in iodine. Give preference to dishes made from poultry, potatoes, and eggs. Don't forget about fresh vegetables and fruits. Consume legumes in moderation. Additionally, take vitamins A, E and C, this will help fight the disease.

Avoid fatty foods, chocolate, cocoa, nuts and seeds for a while. Replace coffee in the morning with green tea. Exclude tomatoes from vegetables.

Carriage

The widespread explanation is quite simple: once the virus enters the host’s body, it never leaves it. Once on the skin, it penetrates the nerve fibers, along them it reaches the nerve ganglia (clusters of nerve cells) and multiplies safely in them. The favorite site for HSV-1 is the trigeminal ganglion, while HSV-2 prefers the lumbar spinal cord.

At a certain point, having reached a critical mass, virions begin to move along nerve fibers back to the surface of the skin. The paths can be different, so the rash on the body appears all the time in different places (creeps).

It is impossible to completely eliminate HSV genetic material from nerve cells. Hence the chronic relapsing course of the disease: periods of calm and well-being are followed by relapses.

Characteristic signs of the disease and its types

The virus is divided into 8 types. Most of the strains belong to the simple type. It responds better to treatment. It differs in that it covers the skin with a pimply rash.

Main types:

• Ι type;
• ΙΙ type;
• ΙΙΙ type (lichen, smallpox);
• Epstein-Barr virus;
• HHV-5 – cytomegalovirus;
• VCHG-6;
• VCHG-7;
• VCHG-8.

The first types affect the mucous membranes and skin. The third type is lichen. A person may feel pain because the nerve endings are affected. In some cases, skin lesions provoke enlarged lymph nodes.

The active phase of the disease is very dangerous. The rash contains liquid, which, if it gets on the skin of another person, can trigger the onset of the disease.

The type of virus affects how the infection spreads among people. For example, you cannot use the personal belongings of a person who is being attacked by type 1 herpes. You can also become infected through personal contact or kissing.

The strain that belongs to the second type of herpes is called genital. It is transmitted through sexual contact.

The type of virus has a direct impact on the incubation period of herpes. There is an active phase of the disease and a latent one. In the first case, symptoms appear immediately, within 2-7 days.

And the second case is dangerous because the incubation period can last up to three weeks. A person will not immediately understand that he is in a group of sick people.

The virus behaves differently in the bodies of men and women. In men, symptoms appear much faster than in the fairer sex.

Clinical manifestations

With normal immunity, a person may not even suspect that his nerve cells have already become a target for herpes. But at the slightest relaxation, the virus rears its head and becomes active. With the onset of an attack, a person begins to be bothered by symptoms, which can be divided into general (systemic) and local (skin).

General reactions include nonspecific reactions to an infectious agent: fever, body aches, etc. Fortunately, with HSV-1 and HSV-2, they are rare.

And on the skin side, there will always be manifestations - this is a rash. Another characteristic symptom is causeless skin pain, itching and burning, which begins within a short time (several hours) in the place where the rash subsequently appears.

The first and leading component are bubbles filled with transparent contents - vesicles. Their number can vary greatly and depends on the strength of the immune system.

With a weak immune status, vesicles are numerous, appear immediately on large surfaces of the body, and merge with each other into larger conglomerations. Preserved immunity does not allow this: vesicles may be few or sporadic.

After some time (from one to two days), the contents of the bubbles become cloudy. In rare cases, when the attack is particularly massive and the skin is affected to a considerable depth, an admixture of blood may appear in them.

Within 3–5 days, the vesicles burst, leaving behind areas of weeping that gradually dry out. A dry yellowish crust forms at the site of the rash. Its color is determined by the color of the contents of the vesicles, most often yellow. Although there are also reddish shades due to the hemorrhagic component.

Initially, it adheres tightly to the surface of the skin, but gradually, starting from the edges, peels off painlessly.

Normally, the time from the appearance of the first elements of the rash until the crusts fall off is approximately 7–10 days. Beneath them, pink skin is exposed, which may peel off for some time.

There are often cases when herpes occurs atypically. This is primarily reflected in the behavior of the rash: it occupies a large surface of the skin and does not go away for a long time. Reasons for being at risk:

• Childhood.
• Immunodeficiency states.
• Systemic chronic diseases, especially in the stage of decompensation.
• Harmful working conditions.
• Lack of vitamins.
• Unbalanced diet.
• Chronic stress.
• Systematic hypothermia and overheating.
• Treatment of concomitant diseases with drugs based on corticosteroids, immunosuppressants and cytostatics.
• Hard physical labor.

All these factors adversely affect the immune system, so attacks become massive and frequent. If in an ordinary person herpes disappears in a week and a half, then in an AIDS patient it may not go away for several months.

Description of the disease

Herpes is a virus that is characterized by rashes on the surface of the skin and mucous membranes of the body. This disease is not classified as a long-term disease, but there are exceptions when treatment takes more than one month. How long it takes to get rid of herpes depends on your health condition, as well as which type of virus has manifested itself.

At the moment, more than 100 varieties of this pathogen are known, but only 8 of them can occur in humans.

At the moment, more than 100 varieties of this pathogen are known, but only 8 of them can occur in humans. Five types of microorganisms have been studied, which include:

1. The first is a simple virus that appears on the lips in the form of a blistering rash, which merges into a single plaque, the so-called “cold”.
2. The second type is also classified as a simple virus, manifests itself on the skin of the genitals and is called genital herpes.
3. The third is chickenpox in children and herpes zoster.
4. The fourth is the Epstein-Barr virus, which causes an acute infectious disease - mononucleosis.
5. The fifth is capable of developing a disease such as cytomegaly.

Types 6,7,8 do not have an exact explanation, it is believed that they can be triggered by chronic fatigue, and also appear suddenly in the form of a skin rash. In view of the above, it is impossible to determine exactly how many days it takes for herpes to go away, because each of its types can have different forms of severity.

It is worth noting that this disease after the acute phase becomes passive and may not manifest itself for a long time. The virus itself, having penetrated the body, remains with the person forever and can recur against the background of hypothermia, weakened immunity, nervous shock, chronic fatigue syndrome, and colds.

The process of disease development is divided into several stages, and depending on which of them treatment is started, it depends on how long herpes lasts.

Herpes in humans is caused by 8 types of herpes viruses. The duration and severity of the disease depends on the specific type of virus.

Complicated options

The typical pattern of recurrent herpes infections often differs from person to person. Depending on the preconditions that provoked the attack, the rash may cover large areas or be limited to one vesicle. Even menstruation in women affects how many days it takes for herpes to go away and delays recovery.

Healing largely depends on several factors: the intensity of the relapse, the body’s reaction and the behavior of the person himself.

This development of events is more relevant for childhood. Children often rush to tear off the recently dried crust, without waiting for it to fall off on its own. This provokes a protracted and, often, complicated course of the disease.

For adults, itching under the scabs when healing begins also causes a lot of discomfort.

People with immune deficiency suffer from HSV very often. Their attacks can be layered on top of each other. This is how a situation arises when the primary elements of the rash - vesicles - are detected simultaneously with the crusts, mixed with them. The process of cleansing the skin is delayed and instead of several days it takes much longer: up to several months.

In case of massive skin damage and lack of treatment, extensive wet surfaces form on the body, which may not dry out for a long time. During therapy, the dynamics become positive, the crust is still forming. After it disappears, ulcers may appear.

It is considered proven that HSV activation occurs against a background of weakened immunity. If it does not recover, there is a possibility of a pessimistic development of events: the vesicular rash that appears on the body does not crust over and does not heal, but causes significant suffering for a long time. Complicating and prolonging the course of relapse:

• Viral mix. In the case of carriage of both HSV-1 and HSV-2, mixed attacks are absolutely possible.
• Attachment of a bacterial infection. The most common reason for this is tearing off crusts in order to speed up their separation. The immature surface underneath is a good substrate for cocci and other microbes.
• Weakening of the body. Everything that is included in the risk factors favors a protracted course of the attack.

If a relapse of herpes lasts more than 14 days, you should not expect it to go away on its own. In a normal course, the episode of active reactions should already be over. If it lasts longer, then there is no need to talk about uncomplicated herpes. The following signs indicate the development of complications:

1. Any increase in body temperature when it appears several days after the rash.
2. Enlarged lymph nodes in areas adjacent to or distant from the rash.
3. Increase in the affected area on the body. Normally, new rashes should no longer appear after the first day.
4. Changing the color of the contents of the bubbles. If it turns white, we can talk about a bacterial infection.
5. Anomalies from the crusts. They may not appear for a week; when they do appear, they will turn not yellow, but red, gray or white.
6. Poor general health. It is a consequence of intoxication of the body.

The addition of any of these signs against the background of an active period of HSV should be a reason to seek medical help.

Self-treatment is fraught with significant risks to the beauty of the body, health and life.

Types of herpes virus infection

Usually, when people use the word “herpes,” they mean small, watery rashes on the lips or other parts of the face. In fact, there are several types of herpes virus infection and each of them causes completely different diseases. How long herpes lasts also depends on the type of virus.

• Type I – “sores” on the lips and nose during a cold or after hypothermia
• Type II – genital herpes
• Type III – herpes zoster and chickenpox
• Type IV – infectious mononucleosis
• Type V – cytomegalovirus
• Type VIII – systemic diseases after internal organ transplantation
• Type VIII - Kaposi's sarcoma

The most common are viruses of the first and second types, which so often bother you and me. Although diseases do not pose a particular danger, there is little pleasant in them, so sometimes the question of how many days it takes for herpes, for example, on the lips, to go away, is almost vital.

Just imagine that you have an important presentation at work tomorrow or a wedding in two days!

Men take the problem more simply, but for girls and women this is akin to a real disaster. Experiences and trials of various treatment methods begin, which is not always useful, especially negative emotions.

How to boost immunity. Lemon and vegetables. Reminder!

"Cold" on the lips

So, let's start with the most exciting topic - how many days does herpes on the face last? It is most often found here, especially on the lips. This usually happens in the autumn-winter period, when colds are common. They then weaken the immune system, and the virus living in the body immediately makes itself felt.

Herpes can also occur during intense experiences. Be that as it may, it looks unattractive, it hurts, it burns, itches. At such moments, it seems that everyone around him is only looking at him.

How long it takes to treat herpes directly depends on your actions and how timely they are. If you begin to take measures to eliminate it as soon as you feel the first symptoms, even before watery blisters appear, then it is more likely that the sore will not develop further.

For this purpose, use any cauterizing agent, for example, brilliant green, alcohol and any alcohol tinctures, toothpaste, and best of all, antiviral cream. There are plenty of creams and ointments and they are all effective. The choice usually depends on the price category. The oldest and most proven remedy is Acyclovir.

But if you didn’t have time and bubbles have already appeared, then there’s nothing you can do about it. You will have to wait at least 4-6 days for treatment. Within a week, all traces of the rash usually disappear. During the same period, you can try to hide them with a special anti-herpes patch.

If a sore on the lips does not go away within 10-15 days, this is a reason to consult a doctor, since this indicates serious disorders within the body.

Genital herpes

How long does it take for herpes to settle on the genitals? A little longer than a cold sore on the lips. It is characterized by the same symptoms and manifestations as with rashes on the face, only the affected area is slightly larger.

The incubation period of the second type of herpes lasts 1-26 days. At the initial stage, the disease is characterized by a slight burning sensation in the place where the rash will soon appear. Just as in the previous case, if you start treatment during this period, you can shorten the recovery time.

Only a doctor should prescribe medications, since here you will need to take antiviral tablets, ointments and, possibly, immunomodulators. If you have a chronic form of the disease, then from time to time without showing any symptoms it is necessary to undergo a course of preventive treatment.

Rarely does anyone manage to start taking medications in the first hours after the onset of an acute inflammatory process. This usually happens already at the rash stage. How many days does herpes heal in this case? About 14, sometimes less if the patient’s immunity is okay.

Shingles

Shingles is a severe form of herpes that develops when the immune system is severely impaired. More often the disease appears in the elderly. It is accompanied by excruciating pain and extensive lesions of the skin.

Again, how long it takes for herpes to break out on the body depends on the correctness of treatment and the protective functions of the body. The sooner you start taking antiviral drugs, the sooner the disease will pass, and the risk of complications will be minimal.

Typically, skin rashes remain on the body for up to a month. At first they are watery, then the bubbles burst and form wounds, which at the final stage dry out and gradually heal. However, this is not the end of herpes zoster. For some time after the disappearance of traces of the rash, the patient continues to have quite severe pain in these areas of the skin.

Since herpes takes a long time to disappear on the body if the body’s resistance is insufficient, to treat the disease, doctors, along with antiviral drugs, prescribe interferon and other immunostimulating drugs.

Therapeutic approaches

Unfortunately, doctors have not yet achieved critical success in combating viruses. However, it would be wrong to say that we have nothing to oppose HSV. It may be impossible to completely cleanse the body of the pathogen, but it is possible to shorten the active phase and speed up recovery.

Drugs have been developed that act specifically against HSV. The point of application is the DNA of the virus. Medicines disrupt its division without affecting the cells of the human body. The most well-known and tested drug is acyclovir. It was synthesized in 1977 and has not lost its relevance to this day. It has contraindications for use, so you should not take it without consulting a doctor.

When used correctly, antiviral drugs can prevent the appearance of herpetic rashes on the body. To do this, you need to start taking them at the very first symptoms - pain, itching and burning. People who have suffered more than one exacerbation recognize these symptoms unmistakably and can confidently say where on the body they can expect herpes.

The most popular and accessible form is oral tablets. The active components of the drugs stop the excessive proliferation of the virus in the nerve fibers.

As a result, those virions that reach the nerve endings on the skin can no longer cause the classic picture. No vesicles - no crusts.

When the rash phase begins, you need to use topical treatments. This is an ointment or cream based on, for example, acyclovir. It is natural that the sooner you start treating the affected areas, the better the rash is treated.

The use of local forms from the very beginning stops the spread of rashes and speeds up the opening of the blisters. When drying begins, creams soften the crust, making it easier to separate and restore the underlying skin.

Physiotherapeutic methods are a good help. For example, the use of an LED laser in conjunction with local and general therapy significantly accelerates the falling off of crusts and the restoration of normal epidermis.

The most promising direction. Periodic monitoring of antiviral immunity allows you to predict a likely exacerbation. When necessary, a course of oral antiviral drugs is administered and rashes do not appear on the body.

The best effect is expected to be observed from complex treatment. A competent combination of oral and local treatment can reduce the active period to five days. Afterwards, not a trace of the rash will remain on the body.

What to do if herpes incubation takes a very long time

Doctors have long noticed that not all patients develop herpes according to the standard pattern.

This fact further complicates treatment during the incubation period.

It is worth keeping in mind: if the patient has a strong body, an active immune system, symptoms of the disease may not appear for a very, very long time.

Do you need to worry if there are no symptoms of the disease, although they should be, since infection has definitely occurred?

Until rashes begin to appear, the patient can be calm about his health.

Herpes is not an infection that undermines the body unnoticed.

Its symptoms are quite vivid and difficult to ignore.

If there are no symptoms, then the virus is dormant and does not pose a threat to the body.

Since it is completely impossible to remove a pathogenic microorganism from the body, all that remains is to make efforts to prevent it from becoming more active.

Is recovery possible?

Once infected, you will have to live with the herpes simplex virus constantly. Therefore, there are two goals: to reduce the course of relapse to a minimum and to extend the period of remission to a maximum. During the active phase, we count on the help of pharmacists.

When the virus goes into remission, the following recommendations will help increase the time between attacks:

• Pay attention to your health and do not neglect physical exercise.
• Organize optimal living, working and creative conditions for yourself.
• Ensure a normal mental microclimate in the family and at work.
• Eat properly.
• Follow doctors' recommendations.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your immunity in order and maintain your natural high resistance to HSV.
The expected result, which is indefinite remission, is quite achievable. [youtube.player]

Effect of pregnancy on virus incubation

Often, women who are in the period of bearing a child ask their attending physicians about how the incubation of herpes changes during pregnancy.

It is quite difficult to predict changes in this case.

On the one hand, the body does everything to protect the woman herself, as well as her unborn baby, from negative external influences, including viral particles.

On the other hand, pregnancy is a condition of a woman’s body, accompanied by severe immunosuppression.

Otherwise, bearing a fetus would simply be impossible.

Often it is immunosuppression that prevails in the female body.

As a result, the length of time it takes herpes from entering the body to developing symptoms is significantly shortened. It is also worth considering that herpes is quite capable of penetrating the placenta, leading to infection of the child.

Sometimes it leads to the development of congenital pathologies of varying severity.