It remains dormant in nerve tissue until something stimulates a flare-up. Exposure to sunlight or emotional or physical stress may provoke eruptions, and you may notice other stress that aggravate the problem. Use of sunscreens, eating well, and avoiding fatigue are often helpful. Keeping sores dry may make you more comfortable. Usually the first recurrence will happen within six months.
Support groups are available and can be a source of information, understanding, and comfort.
If the recurrences are frequent, acyclovir can be used as prophylaxis to lessen the frequency. Famciclovir can also be used. Re-evaluation of treatment should be done every year. Some patients take acyclovir only at the first signs of an outbreak. Usually 400 milligrams taken five times a day for 10 days is used.