Examinations and tests
Doctors will base a diagnosis on the information you provide and on a physical examination. The characteristic appearance of the herpes sores usually leaves little doubt. Further testing is generally not necessary.
If you require a definitive diagnosis, for instance, if your infection involves other organ systems, the doctor may conduct laboratory tests. These may include:
- A sample from the sores to identify the virus
- A culture analysis
- A staining test called the Tzanck smear
- Antigen and antibody studies
- Blood sampling for antibody studies
Oral herpes treatment self-care at home
- Use paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever and muscle aches.
- Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
- An anti-viral preparation, aciclovir 5% cream, is available for use on the skin over-the-counter in pharmacies. This may help, especially if it’s applied at the first warning sign that a cold sore is going to appear.
Medical treatment
Treatment includes medication for fever and taking plenty of fluids.
- A topical anaesthetic such as viscous lidocaine may be prescribed to relieve pain.
- Oral or IV anti-viral medication does exist for herpes but is not recommended for people with a normal immune system. It is only used for people with weakened immune systems, infants younger than six weeks or people with severe disease.
Some people may require hospital admission, for example:
- Those with severe local infection
- People whose infection has spread to other organ systems
- People with weakened immune systems
- Dehydrated individuals who need IV hydration
- Infants younger than six weeks.
Next steps - follow-up
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Use pain medications as advised
- Use medications to control fever.
- Watch for signs and symptoms of dehydration.
