What is the longest a herpes outbreak can last?
Everyone's body reacts differently to the herpes virus, but the most common symptoms are sores on your genitals or mouth. Usually, your first herpes outbreak can take around 2 to 4 weeks to heal. How long your outbreaks last, especially during the first year of getting herpes, can vary depending on your overall health, how quickly you start medicine to treat it, and how your body responds to the virus. After the first time, outbreaks usually happen less often, become less painful, and heal in 10 to 14 days.
During an outbreak, it's important to take care of yourself so you can heal. Get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and avoid anything that might irritate your sores, like tight clothing. Over-the-counter creams or ointments can sometimes help relieve your symptoms, but it's a good idea to talk to a nurse or doctor about getting medicine to treat it. They may recommend that you take antiviral medicine that can help make outbreaks go away sooner and prevent them from coming back as often.
To get tested and/or treated for herpes, you can make an appointment at your nearest Planned Parenthood health center.
Tags: herpes