Posted on September 13, 2012
Taking good care of yourself is a big step to reducing herpes outbreaks. If you have tried more than one treatment for herpes and still experience regular outbreaks you may need to assess all areas of your life to determine where your health might be affected. For example, have you been under an unusual amount of stress or anxiety? Are you getting adequate sleep? Have you been affected by another health issue, such as flu, painful or irregular menstruation, menopause, or another illness? Are you on a medication that may have unforseen side-effects? All of these things can have an effect on herpes, and if you do have other health issues you should address them.
Over the years we have noticed that the following medications may potentially aggravate herpes symptoms :
# Steroid based medications, including cortisone and hydrocortisone
# Depo provera birth control shot
# Fluticasone nasal spray
# Nasonex nasal spray
# Flu shot or vaccinations, in rare cases
# Any medication which could compromise or weaken the immune system
# Protein shakes (not technically a medication, but worth mentioning)
Do not underestimate the effect of stress on the body. Stress can be a big contributor to outbreaks and anything that may relieve this pressure can be helpful, such as deep breathing, taking a vitamin b group supplement, herbal teas, reducing caffeine, meditation and yoga. Sometimes stress and late nights are unavoidable.
