subject: Genital Herpes Itch Relief - 3 Quick Tips to Stop Herpes Outbreaks Itching [print this page] One of the nastier symptoms of genital herpes is the terrible itching that accompanies an outbreak. The itching sensation can be mild and ignorable (but still extremely irritating to have), or it can be so intense to the point of distraction. Genital herpes itch relief is very important to those of us suffering from the virus, as having an itchy genital area can be extremely embarrassing in public, and the other downside is that scratching can irritate and prolong the healing process. Itching may be worse during your initial herpes outbreak then become more bearable, or it may be mind bogglingly annoying for the whole period of the outbreak. Either way, you're going to need something to stop that dreaded itch!
Even if you've got the willpower to resist scratching the itchy area, you may be scratching in your sleep, which is almost impossible to stop, aside from maybe tying your hands to the bedposts, but that seems a little drastic!
Some methods of genital herpes itch relief that have worked well for me include:
1. Salt Baths - A cup of Epsom salts in a warm bath makes an excellent remedy to the itching sensation that will last quite a while. This remedy has the double effect of cleaning and sterilising herpes sores, speeding up healing time.
2. Ice Packs - You can use a sports injury ice pack, or even a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a washcloth for the budget minded. Apply for ten minutes, wait ten minutes, then apply for a further ten minutes. Icing reduces swelling and numbs the infected area, stopping the itchy sensations.
3. A paste made from baking soda and a little water is a great little topical application that will help reduce itching. Apply with a cotton bud to avoid touching the infected area.
