Another antiviral drug, brivudine, has been shown to have comparable efficacy to famciclovir and valacyclovir in the treatment of herpes zoster infection in people whose immune system is not compromised. Pain relief is an important component of shingles management.
Patients with shingles may achieve pain relief from over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs NSAIDs or acetaminophen. Another treatment option is local creams that contain the compound capsaicin.
Acyclovir, famciclovir, and valacyclovir reduce shedding of both HSV-1 and HSV-2 genital herpes infections, as well as outbreak frequency, and are recommended for both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. In , the CDC began recommending a newer shingles vaccine, Shingrix, as the preferred zoster vaccine for healthy adults over 50 years of age. Researchers have also been investigating the development of a vaccine for HSV, as this is believed to be one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of herpes.
To overcome this obstacle, new vaccine strategies have been developed in an attempt to produce an immune response against HSV despite absence of an active infection, such as in asymptomatic or uninfected individuals. For example, GEN is an investigational HSV-2 vaccine that contains viral proteins intended to produce an antibody and T-cell response.
Current methods for preventing the spread of genital herpes, such as condoms, are not used consistently, highlighting the need for new preventive options.
A topical antimicrobial agent, especially one that could be applied vaginally, has the potential to become a preventive measure against the spread of genital herpes. A number of compounds are under investigation with varying mechanisms of action. Topical antimicrobial peptides, which are naturally occurring compounds with antiviral properties, are also under investigation. Cimetidine , a medication commonly used for treating acid reflux, inhibits the production of stomach acid by blocking the signaling pathway for histamine.
Mirogabalin is a newer drug emerging as a potential treatment for postherpetic neuralgia and is part of the same treatment family as gabapentin. In a phase 3 trial, mirogabalin reduced pain compared with placebo in Asian patients with postherpetic neuralgia. The nucleotide adenosine monophosphate AMP is an important intermediary biochemical in cellular metabolism.
For instance, it is converted through a series of reactions to adenosine triphosphate ATP , the energy currency of cells. In a randomized controlled trial that enrolled 32 adults with herpes zoster, intramuscular injections of AMP given three times per week for up to four weeks reduced pain and improved healing time compared with placebo injections.
The safety profile of AMP was favorable in this study, with no reported side effects of toxicity. Some more recent anecdotal reports have suggested efficacy, but more trials are needed.
Reducing stress may help prevent shingles. Psychological stress has been linked to shingles outbreaks, and major depression was shown to decrease cellular immunity to the varicella-zoster virus and increase the risk for shingles.
In addition to relieving stress, other techniques can help relieve symptoms associated with shingles. Cool baths and application of cool, wet compresses on the blisters can relieve itching and pain. Moreover, eating a healthy, well-balanced diet and getting plenty of rest can strengthen the immune system.
One study showed that individuals who ate less than one serving of fruit per week had a more than 3-fold higher risk of developing shingles compared with those who ate more than three servings per day. As with shingles, stress is also implicated in the occurrence of herpes outbreaks.
A higher level of perceived stress was identified as a risk factor for the occurrence of oral lesions caused by HSV Getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, and exercising regularly can help reduce stress while simultaneously strengthening the immune system. There is some evidence that oral herpes HSV-1 outbreaks can be triggered by exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet UV radiation. Using a condom correctly during sex and avoiding intercourse during an outbreak can help prevent the spread of genital herpes.
A number of studies have shown that multiple aspects of immunity in the female genital tract are controlled by sex hormones, and hormones influence susceptibility to several sexually transmitted diseases, including HSV infection.
Evidence from animal studies has shown that treatment with female sex hormones had a significant impact on rates of HSV-2 transmission. Treatment with estradiol was found to confer some protection against vaginal HSV-2 infection in a mouse model, whereas progesterone was found to exacerbate viral infection and contributed to extensive inflammation.
Studies on the effects of hormonal contraception in women have yielded mixed results. Potential differences associated with the use of synthetic and natural hormones, such as progestins and progesterone, should also be explored, as this may help explain some of the differences seen in HSV-2 acquisition and shedding. Although there is no effective cure for Herpesviridae infections, several natural interventions may help reduce the frequency and severity of outbreaks.
Both shingles and herpes can manifest when the immune system is unable to prevent the latent viral infection from reactivating. Therefore, natural interventions that maintain the health of the immune system may help prevent outbreaks. Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is a potent antioxidant with natural antiviral properties. Vitamin C may also provide relief from the nerve pain that often accompanies shingles. Reishi mushroom Ganoderma lucidum is a fungus that has been used medicinally for centuries in China, Japan, and Korea.
Preparations of reishi mushroom have also shown promising results in early clinical studies. In a trial of five Japanese patients with shingles, a formula containing reishi and other botanicals resulted in prompt pain relief and resolution of symptoms.
Much of the benefit of reishi mushroom may be due to its ability to combat immune senescence and promote a healthy immune system. A number of studies have found that compounds in the reishi mushroom have immunomodulatory activities and promote activation of immune cells, such as macrophages and T cells, and the secretion of antibodies.
Vitamin A and its precursor, beta-carotene, may help modulate immune function. Additionally, beta-carotene can provide low-level protection against UV radiation from the sun. Importantly, excessive intake of pre-formed vitamin A can be toxic.
While in the past, vitamin D was appreciated for its role in maintaining bone health, more recent evidence suggests it may be a potent immunomodulator as well. Several lines of evidence suggest vitamin D may help combat herpes and shingles outbreaks. The anti-HSV activity of vitamin D may be a result of its ability to increase levels of an immunologic antimicrobial peptide called cathelicidin, which has antiviral properties against HSV-1 and other viruses.
An open-label controlled clinical trial in 89 subjects with herpes simplex genitalis or herpes zoster studied the effects of either acyclovir alone or acyclovir in combination with a day course of a nutraceutical formulation consisting of vitamin E [as alpha tocopherol acetate], coenzyme Q10, selenium, and L-methionine on virus-related biomarkers and lesion healing rates.
Moreover, these outcomes aligned with lab findings of decreased viral load and increased antiviral cytokine levels; plasma antioxidant activity was higher in the nutraceutical formulation group as well. In uncontrolled trials, topical application of vitamin E oil helped relieve pain associated with oral herpetic lesions and expedite lesion healing. Some studies of topical vitamin E have used once-daily applications, whereas others have used multiple daily applications.
A mouse model showed that vitamin E deficiency impaired the immune response to central nervous system HSV-1 infection. However, this study showed that high-dose dietary supplementation 10 times adequate intake did not further enhance the immune response. This finding suggested that avoiding vitamin E deficiency was important for an adequate immune response in this mouse model, but large supplemental vitamin E doses beyond adequate intake did not confer further protection.
Zinc plays a role in many aspects of the immune system, and deficiency has been associated with immune dysfunction and an increased risk for viral infections. HSV requires large amounts of arginine, an amino acid resembling the amino acid lysin, to replicate properly. Clinical trial results exploring the use of lysine in the prevention of herpes outbreaks have been conflicting. For example, one double-blind placebo-controlled study of 65 patients with oral herpes found no effect on the recurrence rate of herpes, while a similar study observed a significant reduction in the frequency, duration, and severity of herpes outbreaks with lysine treatment.
Propolis, a resin-like substance obtained from beehives, has a long history of medicinal use. It contains a mixture of several compounds, including flavonoids and polyphenols, many of which have anti-HSV-1 activity. Lactoferrin, a protein found in both cow and human milk, has natural antimicrobial properties and is able to help protect the body from bacterial, fungal, parasitic, and viral infections. Curcumin a compound found in the spice turmeric is thought to help the body combat many infections, including those caused by viruses, due in part to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Fucoidans, naturally occurring sugar polymers found in edible seaweeds and some other oceanic sources, can stimulate the immune system. In this study, case series patients treated with fucoidan cream had symptom relief from severely painful oral herpes within an average of five days. Lemon balm Melissa officinalis is a form of mint used traditionally to treat numerous ailments, including herpes outbreaks. In one trial, a lemon balm ointment improved symptoms of oral herpes compared with placebo when applied four times daily for five days; the lemon balm treatment also prevented the spread of the outbreak, and the authors suggested lemon balm may increase time between outbreaks.
Licorice Glycyrrhiza spp. Prophylactic and therapeutic probiotic use has gained traction in recent years as researchers have uncovered the various ways in which they can promote not only proper gut health, but proper immune function and antiviral activity as well.
This information and any accompanying material is not intended to replace the attention or advice of a physician or other qualified health care professional. Anyone who wishes to embark on any dietary, drug, exercise, or other lifestyle change intended to prevent or treat a specific disease or condition should first consult with and seek clearance from a physician or other qualified health care professional. Pregnant women in particular should seek the advice of a physician before using any protocol listed on this website.
The protocols described on this website are for adults only, unless otherwise specified. Product labels may contain important safety information and the most recent product information provided by the product manufacturers should be carefully reviewed prior to use to verify the dose, administration, and contraindications.
National, state, and local laws may vary regarding the use and application of many of the therapies discussed. The reader assumes the risk of any injuries. The protocols raise many issues that are subject to change as new data emerge. None of our suggested protocol regimens can guarantee health benefits.
Life Extension has not performed independent verification of the data contained in the referenced materials, and expressly disclaims responsibility for any error in the literature. No Real Healthcare Cost Crisis. Herpes and Shingles. In this protocol, you will learn about the viruses that cause herpes and shingles, and how these infections are conventionally treated. Several natural ingredients that may help ease the symptoms of herpes and shingles will also be discussed, and important lifestyle and dietary considerations that can help prevent outbreaks will be examined as well.
Antiviral medication is the standard treatment for both shingles and herpes. Although there is no effective cure for herpes virus infections, several natural interventions may help reduce the frequency of outbreaks. Conventional Treatment Antiviral medication acyclovir, famciclovir, or valacyclovir is the first line of treatment for both shingles and herpes. Shingles: Pain medication, including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, acetaminophen, or opioids, may be used for pain management Topical capsaicin may be used to treat postherpetic neuralgia , or prolonged pain after blisters are gone Herpes: Intravenous antibiotics may be administered if symptoms of oral herpes eg, blisters, swollen lymph nodes make it difficult to swallow or take oral medication Emerging Treatments Two vaccines are now commercially available for the prevention of shingles outbreaks Zostavax and Shingrix.
Topical microbicides that have antiviral properties, such as tenofovir gel, may prevent the spread of herpes virus. Cimetidine, commonly used for treating acid reflux, may reduce the severity and duration of shingles outbreaks, but large-scale clinical trials are still needed.
Dietary and Lifestyle Considerations Shingles: Minimize stress Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables Cool baths and cool, wet compresses on the blister can help relieve itching and pain Oral herpes: Minimize sun exposure and use sunscreen on lips and skin Minimize stress by getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, exercising, and using relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation Genital herpes: Minimize stress by getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, exercising, and using relaxation techniques like yoga or meditation Use condoms during sex and avoid intercourse during outbreaks Targeted Natural Interventions Vitamin C: Vitamin C can reduce the risk for prolonged pain postherpetic neuralgia after shingles outbreaks.
Reishi mushroom: Reishi may help with the rapid resolution of symptoms associated with shingles, oral herpes, and genital herpes outbreaks by promoting a robust immune response. Ask your healthcare provider before beginning any vitamin A supplementation. Vitamin D: Higher serum vitamin D levels are associated with increased immunity to HSV, and supplementation may help lower the odds of developing herpes or shingles outbreaks.
Zinc: Zinc solutions can prevent HSV entry into cells and reduce shedding of the virus in the genitals. Topical solutions may also reduce the duration and severity of herpes outbreaks.
Propolis: Propolis and other bee products, including honey, may decrease the severity and duration of herpes symptoms. These products can be considered as an alternative or supplement to acyclovir treatment. Probiotics: Probiotic strains of bacteria may improve the anti-HSV immune response and promote more rapid resolution of symptoms. Shingles One of the most important risk factors for shingles is age; about half of all patients are older than 60 years of age.
Cimetidine Cimetidine , a medication commonly used for treating acid reflux, inhibits the production of stomach acid by blocking the signaling pathway for histamine. Mirogabalin Mirogabalin is a newer drug emerging as a potential treatment for postherpetic neuralgia and is part of the same treatment family as gabapentin. Adenosine Monophosphate The nucleotide adenosine monophosphate AMP is an important intermediary biochemical in cellular metabolism.
Vitamin C Vitamin C, also called ascorbic acid, is a potent antioxidant with natural antiviral properties. Reishi Mushroom Reishi mushroom Ganoderma lucidum is a fungus that has been used medicinally for centuries in China, Japan, and Korea.
Vitamin A Vitamin A and its precursor, beta-carotene, may help modulate immune function. Vitamin D While in the past, vitamin D was appreciated for its role in maintaining bone health, more recent evidence suggests it may be a potent immunomodulator as well.
Curcumin Curcumin a compound found in the spice turmeric is thought to help the body combat many infections, including those caused by viruses, due in part to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Fucoidans Fucoidans, naturally occurring sugar polymers found in edible seaweeds and some other oceanic sources, can stimulate the immune system. Probiotics Prophylactic and therapeutic probiotic use has gained traction in recent years as researchers have uncovered the various ways in which they can promote not only proper gut health, but proper immune function and antiviral activity as well.
Disclaimer and Safety Information This information and any accompanying material is not intended to replace the attention or advice of a physician or other qualified health care professional.
Characteristics of herpes simplex virus infection and pathogenesis suggest a strategy for vaccine development. Reviews in medical virology. Seroprevalence of herpes simplex virus types 1 and United States, J Infect Dis.
PLoS One. NCHS data brief. Varicella zoster virus infection. Nature reviews Disease primers. Journal of medical virology. Freer G, Pistello M. Varicella-zoster virus infection: natural history, clinical manifestations, immunity and current and future vaccination strategies. New Microbiol. Updated June 26, Accessed February 27, A population-based study of the incidence and complication rates of herpes zoster before zoster vaccine introduction. Mayo Clin Proc. Herpes Zoster in the Older Adult.
Infectious disease clinics of North America. A comparison of herpes simplex virus type 1 and varicella-zoster virus latency and reactivation. The Journal of general virology. Herpes simplex virus and varicella zoster virus, the house guests who never leave.
Pfister G, Savino W. Can the immune system still be efficient in the elderly? An immunological and immunoendocrine therapeutic perspective. Oxman MN. Herpes zoster pathogenesis and cell-mediated immunity and immunosenescence. J Am Osteopath Assoc. Advances in the understanding of the pathogenesis and epidemiology of herpes zoster. Journal of clinical virology : the official publication of the Pan American Society for Clinical Virology. In: Diseases of Swine.
Lan K, Luo MH. Herpesviruses: epidemiology, pathogenesis, and interventions. Virol Sin. Microbiol Spectr. Balfour HH, Jr. Infectious mononucleosis. Update on infections with human herpesviruses 6A, 6B, and 7. Medecine et maladies infectieuses. Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus-associated cancers and related diseases. Azab W, Osterrieder K. Advances in anatomy, embryology, and cell biology. Curr Clin Microbiol Rep.
Agelidis AM, Shukla D. Cell entry mechanisms of HSV: what we have learned in recent years. Future virology. Cole NL, Grose C.
Membrane fusion mediated by herpesvirus glycoproteins: the paradigm of varicella-zoster virus. Herpes simplex virus Membrane Fusion. Wallmann HW. A Brief Look at Shingles. Cohen J, Breuer J. Chickenpox: treatment. BMJ Clin Evid. Ayoade F, Kumar S. Varicella Zoster Chickenpox. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island FL Updated December 31, Updated August 7, Epidemiology, treatment and prevention of herpes zoster: A comprehensive review. Indian journal of dermatology, venereology and leprology.
Pathogenesis and current approaches to control of varicella-zoster virus infections. Clinical microbiology reviews. Kaye S, Choudhary A. Herpes simplex keratitis. Progress in retinal and eye research. Herpes associated erythema multiforme. Contemporary clinical dentistry.
Sokumbi O, Wetter DA. Clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of erythema multiforme: a review for the practicing dermatologist.
Int J Dermatol. Dermatologic therapy. Whitley R, Baines J. Clinical management of herpes simplex virus infections: past, present, and future. Increasing proportion of herpes simplex virus type 1 as a cause of genital herpes infection in college students. Sex Transm Dis. Efficacy results of a trial of a herpes simplex vaccine. The New England journal of medicine. Symptoms of herpes usually include painful red blisters around the genitals, rectum, thighs and buttocks; women usually get vaginal discharges and painful urination.
Symptoms of herpes usually last up to 20 days but the sores will eventually heal without scarring. In the case of shingles, the symptoms usually begin with a pain that usually tingles or burns.
The pain can be either mild or severe. Rashes, burning, itching, fluid-filled blisters and numbness can occur as well. How Are They Treated? Usually, herpes is treated with medications. Primary infections usually require seeking the help of sexual health clinics, who prescribe antiviral tablets like acyclovir, which is taken five times a day. It prevents the HSV from multiplying but it does not clear the virus out of your system — it will also cause side effects such as feeling sick and having headaches.
In the case of shingles, prior to its outbreak, it usually heals on its own within a matter of weeks. It can be treated with medications as well; usually antiviral medicines and pain relievers help.
Cite APA 7 Franscisco,. Differences Between Herpes And Shingles. Difference Between Similar Terms and Objects. MLA 8 Franscisco,. I noticed on time that i was was having this virus cos i immediately went to the hospital for a test when i started feeling some unusual pains and encountering some miserable symptoms in my body and i was diagnosed of Herpes simplex 2, i was so perplexed cos i heard there was no cure but i tried to still get rid of it and started to use really strong drugs from the hospital which really cost me a lot and all was to no avail.
I had to check on the internet one day bout this Herpes and how i could be helped and i keep seeing a lot of testimonies bout this man called Dr Mack, so i contacted him via his email and the mobile contact i saw there on the post of one Mrs Kathy Anne cos i needed this cure so bad as it has affected me deeply.
I contacted him and was optimistic that he would cure me, and he responded well which made me really calm, I did all that i was i was asked to do by him and which he sent me the herbal medicine with instructions to take it. Just in 14days i started to feel okay and noticed changes in me and later i went to do a test as he told me to, and which i was confirmed negative and Herpes free.
Hi I have had herpes 2 for decades. Occurrences vary to 1 or 2 times a month too 3 or 4 times a year. Recommended medications for initial or recurrent infection include aciclovir, valaciclovir, and famciclovir all evidence category A.
Aciclovir resistant infection can be treated with intravenous foscarnet or topical cidofovir evidence category C. Complications of severe oral herpes include dysphagia, severe pain, and inability to take oral medications. In HIV infection, oral or genital herpes can be persistent and cause deep painful ulcers. Bacterial and yeast superinfections can occur in patients with persistent ulcerations. Ocular infection can occur, particularly in association with oral herpes infection.
Complications of genital herpes include dysuria, pain, and edema. Risk factors for poor outcome include severe immunocompromised states, disseminated disease with visceral involvement, and resistant virus.
Patients with advanced HIV infection are particularly at risk for poor outcome. With the advent of highly active antiretroviral therapy, severe manifestations of herpes simplex in HIV are very uncommon. HSV can be spread by infected individuals who are asymptomatic or symptomatic during times of viral shedding.
Based on serology studies, the prevalence of HSV-2 in adults in the United States is between 40 and 60 million people. A levelling of prevalence is seen around age 30 suggesting that few new infections occur after that age. Risk factors for acquiring genital disease are age between 15 to 30 years, increased number of sexual partners, black or Hispanic race, and HIV positivity.
In two separate studies Bauer et al. In the first, the effect of age in increasing the odds of HSV-2 was modified by race, with higher HSV-2 prevalence among Black Americans established by 20 to 24 years of age and the effect of race decreasing from 30 to 49 years of age. In the oldest group, aged 60 to 74 years, the prevalence was HSV can spread by infected individuals who are asymptomatic or symptomatic during times of viral shedding. The virus is able to avoid immune detection during latency, possibly through intracellular accumulation of CD1d molecules in antigen presenting cells.
CD1d molecules are typically transported to the cell surface where they play a role in antigen presentation. Chronic suppressive regimens of antiviral medications can be used to prevent outbreaks, reduce viral shedding, and decrease disease transmission. Barrier protection is useful for preventing transmission of genital herpes infection. BMC Infect Dis. Bartlett, BL, Tyring, S. Treatment of skin disease comprehensive therapeutic strategies.
This book evaluates the evidence for treatments for many different diseases of the skin. It grades them as A: double-blind studies, B: clinical trial with greater than or equal 20 subjects, C: clinical trial with less than 20 subjects, D: case series of more than four subjects, and E: anecdotal case reports. Emerg Med Clin North Am. This is a great review of HIV-related dermatology, including many manifestations of infectious diseases, such as herpes simplex.
This is an outstanding review of herpes simplex virus, including its relationship to patients immunocompromised by HIV infection. Arch Intern Med. Rodgers, S, Leslie, KS.. Curr Opin Infect Dis. This article emphasizes clinical findings, diagnosis, and treatment of skin infections in HIV-infected patients and how they have evolved in the era of HAART therapy.
N Engl J Med.. This industry sponsored placebo controlled study of healthy individuals with HSV-2 showed a dose-dependent decrease in viral shedding and days with lesions with pritelivir. Johnston, C, Corey, L.. Clin Microbiol Rev..
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