Herpes is a viral infection that affects many people. The problem is caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and is very contagious even when it is not apparent. In some rare cases, it can appear inside the nose, although it is more often located in the mouth and other areas of the face. There is no cure for the virus, but it is possible to treat lesions in the nose and control the problem with medication, thus preventing attacks.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Treating herpes in the nose
Step 1. Find out if you have blisters inside your nose
Because it's hard to see the inside of your nose, you may have to struggle to distinguish between herpes and another problem, such as an ingrown hair or a pimple. Check the inside and the area around the nose to make the task easier.
- Use a mirror to check the visible surfaces of the nasal cavity. You may not be able to see much, but detecting just one bubble helps.
- Know how to recognize the symptoms of herpes in the nose, which include tingling, burning, itching, painful lumps, and a discharge from small blisters. Fever and headache may also occur.
- See if there are any inflamed areas, both on the inside and outside, that indicate herpes.
- Avoid putting your finger or any object inside your nose. Objects such as cotton swabs, for example, can leave a piece of cotton lodged inside the nose, causing a big problem.
- Go to the doctor or just don't poke the blister if you can't locate it and make sure it's herpes.
Step 2. Let him heal on his own
If your herpes is not too severe, expect to go without any treatment. In many cases, the problem goes away within a week or two without medication.
Make such a choice only if you are feeling well and if you are not going to get in touch with anyone else. Remember that even herpes on the nose is contagious
Step 3. Wash wounds carefully
Clear any bubbles in your nose as soon as you notice them. Careful cleaning of the site can prevent the problem from spreading and help promote healing.
- Use a washcloth dampened in warm soapy water if the herpes is not too deep in the nasal cavity. Wash the towel in hot water before using it again.
- Warm a glass of water to a pleasant temperature (hot, but not to the point of burning your skin) and add some antibacterial soap. Dip a cotton swab in this water and gently apply it to the bubbles if they are closer to the nostril. Repeat the procedure two or three times a day.
Step 4. Take an antiviral medication
Ask your doctor for a prescription for an antiviral drug. It can speed healing, lessen the severity of recurrences, and minimize the chances of contagion and transmission.
- The usual medications for herpes are Acyclovir, Fanciclovir and valaciclovir hydrochloride.
- Follow the dosage recommended by the doctor for the drug to be most effective.
- Your doctor may recommend an antiviral if the acute episode is very severe.
Step 5. Apply a topical cream
Because herpes is located inside the nose, the task may not be easy. Consider using a topical medication to shorten the duration of the episode, ease discomfort, or lower the risk of infecting someone. Ask the doctor what is the best way to apply the following:
- Penciclovir cream.
- Acyclovir in ointment.
Step 6. Alleviate itchiness and irritation with an ointment
You may have itchiness and irritation from herpes. Soothe these sensations by applying a gel or cream with lidocaine or benzocaine. Be aware that these remedies only provide minimal, short-term relief.
- You can buy the ointments at most pharmacies.
- Apply the remedy with a clean finger or a cotton swab only if the herpes is not located too deep in the nose.
Step 7. Relieve blister pain
Blisters associated with the herpes simplex virus can cause pain. In addition to topical ointments, there are several other ways to soothe pain and discomfort.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease the pain.
- Applying ice or a cool towel to the nose can also help.
Step 8. Evaluate Alternative Treatments
Studies show contradictory evidence regarding alternative herpes therapies. Consider such treatments if you want to avoid using chemicals in addition to medical treatment. Here are some alternative therapies that may work:
- Lysine supplement or cream.
- Propolis.
- Breathing and meditation exercises to relieve stress.
- A sage or rhubarb ointment or a combination of both.
- A lip gloss containing lemon extract in the case of shallow lesions on the nose.
Part 2 of 2: Preventing herpes recurrence
Step 1. Decrease or avoid direct contact through touch
The fluid that comes out of the herpes blisters contributes to the contagion. Limit or avoid direct contact with others to prevent transmission to them or worsening of your condition.
- Do not have oral sex or kiss even if the herpes is located only on the nose.
- Keep fingers and hands away from your eyes.
Step 2. Wash your hands often
Whenever there are blisters, even just on your nose, wash your hands before touching yourself or anyone else. The attitude can prevent the virus from spreading on your skin or passing on to someone else.
- Wash them with a soap that kills bacteria.
- Soap your hands for at least 20 seconds.
- Dry them completely with a clean or disposable towel.
Step 3. Use your own items
Whenever you have herpes episodes, avoid sharing utensils with others. This reduces the risk of spreading the virus to others or to other places on your skin.
- Reserve some personal items, towels and bedding to use in episodes until they pass.
- Avoid using lipsticks and other people's individual items.
Step 4. Keep your nose clean
Bacteria can increase the likelihood of a herpes attack, and the nose is the first place they thrive. Always keep it clean to minimize scratches.
- Blow your nose with a disposable handkerchief when you are sick.
- Avoid poking him. Fingers can spread bacteria or even herpes virus inside the nose.
Step 5. Control stress and fatigue
Stress and fatigue can make you more likely to have a herpes episode. Handle stressful situations as best you can and be sure to get enough rest.
- Organizing the day with a flexible schedule that includes time devoted to relaxation can reduce stress.
- Avoid stressful situations if possible.
- Take a deep breath or try breathing exercises to help you relax.
- Exercise frequently as it can also help reduce stress.
- Aim to sleep seven to nine hours a night.
Step 6. Watch for symptoms of a herpes episode
If you start noticing any symptoms, treat them right away. The measure can speed up the cure of the episode and lessen its severity.