Herpes outbreak

[citylife81]

I was diagnosed with herpes 5 months ago. So far I've had three breakouts and each time it's been in different areas on my penis. Is this normal? Also, for some reason acyclovir doesn't suppres my breakouts. I've tried looking for clinical trials in hopes to permanently suppres the virus. Any suggestions on how to suppres my outbreaks while also taking acyclovir? I have been so depressed because I have so many outbreaks. I feel my life is over.

[petal130]

There are no cures for any virus; doubtful we'll find a cure for herpes for a good many years. The antivirals do a great job at suppressing shedding and reducing outbreaks. Most herbal remedies promising to cure herpes and the like are complete quackery while making the folks peddling the stuff rich!

I still would recommend seeing your doc to rule out other potential issues.

[citylife81]

Hi! I was diagnosed with a culture and blood test. I'm doing so much research trying to find something that can keep the virus dormant or a cure. I'm trying a holistic approach from a doctor in Mexico. It's a far chance but I'm willing to do anything at this point. I'm seeing someone who knows about my diagnosis and he is actually staying with me. We have yet to have any sexual relations because we are both scared. I don't want to hurt him in any way. I don't know how long I should wait to have sex after an outbreak. This third outbreak is even worse than the initial outbreak. I think I'm going to double up on the acyclovir.

[petal130]

How were you diagnosed as having genital herpes?

Best bet is to be seen if having such frequent outbreaks. Just because you have herpes doesn't mean that everything IS herpes. I can vouch for that myself.

You will never permanently suppress the virus with antivirals - but that sure would be awesome if it could do that!  What dosage are you taking? Depending on if you're taking Valtrex or Acyclovir, you'll want to be sure it's the right dose. The Herpes Handbook at Westover Heights Clinic (google it and it comes right up), page 19, has the proper dosages listed.

Lastly, you're life surely is far from over. I have genital herpes and good grief, there are a MILLION other things in my life that are more stressful and impacting. Herpes is a minor nuisance and not a major health threat, fortunately. Most folks (as in potential partners) will have no issue with it, from my experience. Education is key. You may want to consider the book by Terri Warren called "The Good News About the Bad News", a book for those newly diagnosed and their partners too. You can get it on Amazon.

[AverageJohnny]

Are you taking suppressive therapy or only during breakouts? If you want it to work to treat breakouts you have to catch it early, like at the prodrome level, otherwise Valtrex takes a very long to work with me. It actually doesn't help much at all. If I start Valtrex when I suspect tingling is starting, I
might see some reddish spots but they usually never become sores. Just my own experience.

The first couple of months were very harsh for me too. I had two initail OB's one right after the other, basically a two-month long OB. Then clear for about a month and got another one. Have faith, it will get better. You might want to try a different drug.