Content

• Steps
• Part 1 of 2: Treating Herpes in the Nose
• Part 2 of 2: Preventing Herpes Recurrence

Herpes is a viral infectious disease that many people face. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and is contagious even in the absence of external symptoms. Herpes usually affects the lips and other areas of the face, but in rare cases, it can get inside the nose. Although there is no cure for the herpes virus, certain medications can help treat sores in the nose and take steps to prevent the occurrence of herpes in the future.

Steps

Part 1 of 2: Treating Herpes in the Nose

1. 1 Identify a cold sore in your nose. While it is difficult to look inside the nose, there are signs that distinguish cold sores from other problems, such as an ingrown hair or pimple. Examine the areas inside and around your nose to see if you really have herpes.
   • Use a mirror to examine the visible surfaces of the nasal cavity. You may not have much to consider, although this method can help detect herpes.
   • Recognize the symptoms of herpes in the nose, which include tingling and itching, burning, painful bumps, and runny discharge from small blisters. In addition, fever and headache are possible.
   • Check for inflamed areas inside or outside the nose, which could indicate herpes.
   • Do not stick your fingers or any objects deep into your nose. For example, a Q-tip can get stuck in your nose and cause great harm.
   • See your doctor or leave your nose alone if you cannot determine the cause of the pain.
2. 2 Wait for the cold sore to clear up on its own. If the herpes in the nose is not very serious, it will go away without additional treatment. In many cases, the sores will clear up on their own within 1 to 2 weeks.
   • Use this option only if you feel normal and can avoid contact with other people. Remember that even a cold sore in the nose is contagious to others.
3. 3 Rinse the sores gently. If you find sores in your nose, gently flushing them will help prevent the spread of herpes and get rid of it faster.
   • If the sores are not deep in the nose, use a washcloth dampened with warm, soapy water. Then wash the loofah in hot water and soap before using it again.
   • Heat a glass of water to keep it comfortably warm, but not too hot or scalding your skin, and add some antibacterial soap. Dip a cotton swab in the water and gently press it over the herpes-affected area, unless it's too deep in your nose. Do this 2-3 times a day.
4. 4 Take antiviral drugs prescribed by your doctor. Ask your doctor to prescribe you an antiviral and take it. This will help you cope with cold sores faster, reduce the severity of relapses, and minimize the risk of infecting others.
   • For herpes, drugs such as acyclovir (Zovirax), famciclovir (Favir), and valacyclovir (Valtrex) are often prescribed.
   • For maximum effectiveness, follow your doctor's recommended dosage.
   • In severe cases, your doctor may advise you to take antiviral medications.
5. 5 Use a topical cream. Because the cold sore is in the nose, it can be difficult to apply cream to the affected area. Consider using topical creams if you want to speed up your recovery, ease discomfort, and minimize your risk of infecting others. Ask your doctor about the best way to apply one of the following creams:
   • penciclovir ("Fenistil Pencivir");
   • Acyclovir (an antiviral cream that may be more effective than other topical drugs);
   • docosanol 10% (Erazaban) - This drug can be purchased without a prescription.
6. 6 Reduce itching and irritation with an ointment. Herpes can be accompanied by itching and irritation. To relieve them, try using a lidocaine or benzocaine gel or ointment. Please note that these remedies may provide only minor or short-term relief.
   • These drugs can be purchased at your nearest pharmacy.
   • Only apply these products with a clean finger or cotton swab if the herpes is not deep in the nasal cavity.
7. 7 Ease the pain associated with herpes. Blisters and sores caused by the herpes simplex virus can be quite painful. Besides ointments, there are several other ways to relieve pain and discomfort.
   • Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve pain.
   • Applying ice or a cool face washcloth to the outside of your nose can also help.
8. 8 Consider using alternative therapies. Research has yielded conflicting results about the effectiveness of alternative methods. Consider using these methods if you do not want to take medication, or combine them with medication. In any case, consult your doctor first. Here are some possible alternative methods and remedies:
   • lysine supplements or creams;
   • propolis, or synthetic beeswax;
   • reducing stress through breathing exercises and meditation;
   • sage or rhubarb cream (or a mixture thereof);
   • lip balm with lemon extract if the sores are not too deep in the nose.

Part 2 of 2: Preventing Herpes Recurrence

1. 1 Limit tactile contact with other people or abstain from them completely. Herpes sore fluid contains a virus that can infect others. To avoid infection or worsening of the condition, limit tactile contact with other people or completely abstain from them.
   • Refrain from oral sex and kissing, even if the blisters are located only in the nose.
   • Do not touch your eyes with your fingers and palms.
2. 2 Wash your hands often. With every cold sore outbreak, even if it's located in your nose, wash your hands every time before touching yourself or anyone else. This will help prevent the virus from getting on your or anyone else's skin.
   • Wash your hands with any antibacterial soap.
   • Lather your hands for at least 20 seconds.
   • After washing, dry your hands dry with a clean plain or paper towel.
3. 3 Use personal items. Wherever herpes appears, do not share your personal belongings with other people. This way you minimize the risk of spreading the virus and contracting herpes to others.
   • Keep a separate set of dishes, towels, and bedding in case of a cold sore outbreak.
   • Don't use other people's personal hygiene products, such as lip balm.
4. 4 Cope with stress, illness, and fatigue. Stress, illness, and fatigue increase the risk of herpes. Try to control stressful situations and remember to get adequate rest, especially during illness.
   • Organize your daily life with a flexible schedule and take time to relax and reduce stress.
   • Try to avoid stressful situations whenever possible.
   • Take deep breaths or breathing exercises to relax.
   • Exercise regularly can also help manage stress.
   • Aim to get 7-9 hours of sleep every night.
   • Do not force yourself to do anything if you feel that you are sick. If this happens, get plenty of rest and temporarily stay away from work or school.
5. 5 Watch for symptoms of a herpes outbreak. If you find these symptoms, start treatment right away. This will shorten the duration of the outbreak and make it easier. If you begin to feel the characteristic tingling and itching sensations that often precede an outbreak, it is advisable to start treatment immediately.
   • Contact your doctor and ask him to prescribe medications that will ease the flare-up and speed up healing.