Diagnostics
The diagnosis of an infection with the Herpes Simplex Virus can usually be made as a gaze diagnosis thanks to its characteristic form of spread. It is still possible to test for specific antibodies against the virus, but since this test is of limited value and has little influence on the further course of the infection, it is only performed in exceptional cases.
Therapy
If the symptoms of a Herpes Simplex virus are only local and not severe, there is often no need for treatment at all. One can simply wait until the infection heals on its own. However, if a therapy is desired, it is usually carried out with special antiviral agents, the so-called virustatics.
Particularly good results with Herpes Simplex Viruses are achieved with the active ingredient Aciclovir, Valaciclovir, Ganciclovir, Penciclovir and rarely also Tromantadin. Usually treatment is local, i.e. with the help of creams or ointments. These preparations are available without prescription in pharmacies.
With adequate therapy, the symptoms almost always disappear again within 10 to 12 days. However, if the blisters persist, or if the patients are children or pregnant women, it is recommended to consult a doctor for therapy advice. In the case of a very pronounced, severe infestation, systemic therapy in tablet form can also be carried out with the same active ingredients. Herpes patches are an alternative to antivirals in the context of local treatment. These contain hydrocolloids, which practically create a cushion of fluid over the blisters, thus preventing the spread of the virus.
Prophylaxis
Prevention of infection with the Herpes Simplex virus is only possible to a limited extent. One should avoid direct and indirect mucous membrane contact as far as possible in symptomatically infected people. However, since almost everyone is infected and often there is only a latent infection that cannot even be detected from the outside, it is extremely difficult (not to say impossible) to consistently prevent contact with the virus.
However, what one can pay attention to is that if one knows that one is prone to reactivate the Herpes Simplex virus, one tries to avoid the triggering factors. Since most people know which circumstances lead to a new herpes infection (stress for one person, a cold for the next and sunburn for the next), these factors should be avoided if possible. There are also various measures that can be taken to ensure general hygiene and strengthen the immune system by ensuring a healthy diet, sufficient exercise and sleep.