HELP FOR HERPES

[elwhip]

Some suggestions to add to the already excellent comments in this web site/forum..

I'm 49. I got herpes 2 from my husband 4 years ago; we were newly married, I got VERY sick, went to the doctor, and herpes was diagnosed - I couldn't believe it. When my husband heard the diagnosis he sheepishly admitted that it was herpes and that he had given it to me. He knew exactly where he had gotten it; the woman who had given it to him had been absolutely honest with him (bless her heart!). I wasn't as fortunate. Although condoms don't give a lot of protection, I would have liked to at least have had the option to try and protect myself. He just said that he hadn't had an outbreak for a long time, and had forgotten he had it.

Well, to cut a long story short, it's now 4 years later; we are getting divorced - not because of the herpes.

I get far fewer attacks these days. A Herpes outbreak is DEFINITELY linked to the state of your immunity, and I have found that taking 1000mg of Vit C every morning has helped me. So whether it's herpes 1 or herpes 2, the key to limiting the severity and frequency of attacks is to keep your immune system strong. Eat healthy, try and exercise regularly, (or just get some fresh air every day), and drink lots of water (an acquired habit - doesn't come easily at first). I also practise very strict personal hygiene when I have an outbreak. In the shower I wash the affected part gently but very thoroughly with soap - even though it hurts - then wash my hands and scrub my fingernails with soap before touching anywhere else. I pat the area dry with a disposable paper towel, and use my normal towel for the rest of the drying.

You have to apply the same hygiene the rest of the time too - not just in the shower. At the start of an outbreak - and even during, you'll probably get at those itchy spots - it's almost impossible not to! Try to be aware of it and wash your hands with soap. This will avoid your spreading the virus to other areas, such as your fingers or face.

It's a bit of a nuisance doing some of these things.. but it's part of the reality of having herpes. It's not the end of the world, though; having herpes becomes quite manageable if you apply these little practical tips. Also, there are many benefits to be had from changing your lifestyle to one of healthier eating and living.. not just minimizing the impact of herpes on your life!

Just some practical suggestions, which I hope you'll find useful. They've worked for me.

Fondly,

Rina.