4 things people suffering from herpes should NEVER do!

Did you know stress and self-medication can lead to recurrence of herpes or even worsen your condition?

Herpes can be painful and if not taken treated properly, might recur. Be it herpes labialis or genital herpes, you need to keep in mind a few things that you should not do.Dr Rohit Batra, Dermatologist, Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, Delhi, lists the things you should stay away from, also here's all that you need to know about herpes.

Herpes is caused by a herpes simplex virus HSV-1 and HSV-2. HSV-1 (herpes simplex virus type 1) also known as herpes labialis affects lips and face whereas, HSV-2 (herpes simplex virus type 2) also known as genital herpes, affects genitals. Unlike herpes zoster, the virus that causes chicken pox and occurs once in a lifetime, herpes simplex virus can affect more than once as the virus particles act as a carrier of the virus for the rest of the life, once infected. Moreover, HSV-2 is more harmful than HSV-2, so extra care is needed if you suffer from herpes. Also, keep these four points in mind even if you have suffered from herpes in the past.

1. Avoid physical contact: As herpes is a skin condition and can spread through physical contact, care should be taken to not have skin-to-skin contact with anyone, especially with your kid and spouse. Hence, it is wise to stay indoors till the crust that forms after the blister breaks open, starts to heal and peels off.

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2. Don't self-medicate: It is a known fact that anti-viral drugs are the preferred medications to soothe symptoms of the condition. But avoid self-medication as it might lead to complications if the medications fail to show results. Also, stay away from using natural or herbal remedies to soothe the skin infections as it might further worsen the condition.

3. Never think twice before consulting a doctor: Not many people know that herpes simplex virus can remain suppressed for up to a year. This means that if you have frequent episodes of herpes infection or any signs of this skin condition, consult your doctor immediately. Don t ever take the medications that were previously prescribed as your doctor might change your medication for effective results. Here are 5 signs and symptoms of herpes you should know.

4. Stay away from stress: If your body is under stress, mentally or physically, there are high chances of recurrence. When stressed, hormones like adrenaline and cortisone are produced, which suppresses your immune system. Stress hormones can lead to new episode of infection. If you are stressed out, these 5 ways to relieve stress naturallymight help!