Herpes: Caring for Sores

Good hygiene matters when you have herpes. Take care of your sores to speed healing. Neglected sores can lead to other infections.

To ease your symptoms

• Take any medications as directed.

• Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain.

• Take warm or cool baths to relieve itching of sores. And don’t share towels when you have a sore.

• Urinate in a tub of warm water to prevent burning. This works for women with genital herpes.

• Don’t wear tight clothes or nylon underwear. They can trap moisture, cause chafing, and prevent sores from healing.

To speed healing

• Wash the sores with mild soap and water. And wash your hands after you touch a sore.

• Dry the affected area completely.

• Don’t bandage sores. The dry air helps them heal.

• Avoid ointments unless they are prescribed. They retain moisture and may cause other infections.

• Don’t pick at the sores. This can slow healing.

• Don’t touch your eyes when you have a sore. The virus may travel from your fingertips to your eyes.