How to treat herpes in children?

Herpes is a type of infection that causes the appearance of cold sores or fever blisters. It has different types, such as HSV-1 (oral herpes) and HSV-2 (genital herpes). These types can develop in the body without the presence of symptoms. Fortunately, antiviral drugs are available to treat these herpes infection types.

Herpes is most common in adults. Although the infection is not so usual in children for the past decades, it wasn’t until recently that more cases of herpes in children arose and continue to grow. What causes this infection to occur at a very young age? How is the condition treated?

Like adults, herpes in children is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It is one of the major viruses known today. It has no cure; however, treatment options are available to control the infection.

As mentioned, there are major types of herpes infections. The most common that happens in children is HSV-1 or oral herpes. When symptoms appear, they experience the same bodily reactions that adults have. These include fever blisters or mouth ulcers.

Although the cases are minimal, HSV-2 can also happen in children. It affects the genital parts of the body, with symptoms like sores appearing on the genital surfaces.

The following are the natural methods for treating herpes in children:

• Applying ice packs to provide an analgesic effect to the blisters. This method helps reduce the itchiness on the skin.
• Prepare food rich in vitamins E and D. Vitamin E is rich in antioxidants, which reduces cellular stress triggered by viral infection. On the other hand, vitamin D helps reduce the appearance of symptoms caused by the said virus.
• Apply some essential oils. Although not clinically suggested, this home remedy is enough to decrease the spread of the virus. Some varieties of essential oils you can use are rosemary, eucalyptus caesia, thyme, and cinnamon.
• Although the evidence is unclear, it is said that the sun’s aggression can reactivate HSV. To prevent frequent breakouts, using sunscreen to protect the lips or the skin around it is highly advisable.
• Applying aloe vera helps in reducing inflammation. It also has antiviral effects that help diminish the effects of HSV’s symptoms.

Home remedies definitely help reduce the effects of the herpes simplex virus. However, using antiviral drugs is the most recommended to treat the infection. What are these antiviral drugs?

The most common antiviral medications used for herpes treatment are acyclovir, valacyclovir, and famciclovir. Just like other antiviral medications, these types of drugs help suppress the virus and prevent recurrent outbreaks. They also reduce the severe impact of symptoms, such as the painful and stinging sensation HSV brings to the skin.

If your child experiences symptoms of herpes, call your healthcare professional immediately and seek medical attention. The first thing you will likely receive is a prescription involving any of the mentioned drugs.