How to Prevent Oral Herpes

2 minutes

Last update: 24 April, 2015

Herpes labialis is a common condition. Also known as a cold sore, it can transfer easily from one person to another. However, it can also be spread via oral sex! This is caused by type 2 herpes.

The symptoms of herpes labialis

The first symptom is usually red and tingly skin. It normally causes small ulcers to appear that can itch or produce discomfort. Many people suffer from frequent outbreaks, though it can reappear again after several years.

What occurs during oral herpes?

A strong pain usually occurs in the mouth and lips when you first contract oral herpes. You might get a fever or throat pain followed by inflammation in the ganglion around the neck. Blisters appear in some areas of the mouth with ulcers opening and releasing a transparent liquid that causes a scab to occur. This normally disappears after a few weeks.

Things that can provoke oral herpes include the flu, menstrual periods, stress, fatigue, a bad cold, emotional discomfort and fevers.

Safety measures to follow

Try to avoid touching any bodily fluids that could be contagious, such as kissing an infected person or using someone else’s knife and fork. Also try and avoid drinking or eating from the same cup or plate.
Try to use a lip protection product to avoid sun exposure that causes outbreaks to occur. You could use aloe vera or a lip balm with SPF.
Eat a balanced diet that includes iron and zinc, two very important vitamins in the fight against herpes. Other nutrients, like vitamins A, B, C, and E should also be included in your diet. A balanced diet will help to boost your immune system and keep you healthy.
Eat garlic in the morning before breakfast. Garlic is an antiseptic food which boosts the immune system. Try to ensure that the garlic is fresh. Pop it onto a spoon, chopped finely, with some honey. Swallow the mixture down. You can also take garlic capsules if you don’t want to consume it fresh or have garlic breath.

These tips will help to prevent oral herpes from occurring. Remember to use a lip balm to hydrate your lips and to use condoms during sex with your partner.