Dear expert,

2,5 years ago i got my initial hsv1 genital outbreak. After that none ... but still worried. The outbreak was on/inside my vagina (or better labia). 

I just went to see the doctor because of a rash for weeks around my anus. Apparently it's kind of eczema and i got hydrocortisone cream. 

Now i'm worried about another herpes outbreak. I've read about hydrocortisone can trigger herpes outbreaks, on the internet. 

1. Can this cream trigger herpes outbreaks ( for example because the skin will become thinner because of the cream)?

I'm anxious to put on the cream now, but of course i want to get rid of the rash. So don't know what to do?!

Thanks in advance! 

Addition: also in the leaflet of the cream they say: do not use this cream with skin conditions caused by virusses (for example herpes).

Yes, cortisone can trigger a herpes outbreak as it suppresses the normal immune response.  As you certain the rash around your anus isn't a herpes outbreak?

Terri
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Yes, this morning i saw a docter. It is not a herpes outbreak. She thinks/says it is eczema.

Does your doctor know you have genital herpes? 
I suppose the best way to deal with this would be to take higher doses of antiviral medicine during the time you are using the steroids to try to prevent an outbreak from happening.

Terri

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She knows yes. 

well, not all topical steroids will necessarily trigger an outbreak.  So I wouldn't be too panicked.  But you could call her and ask if she would prescribe the antivirals while you are using the cream. Oral steroids are far more likely to trigger an outbreak than topical ones - you might actually be just fine. 
so the choices are
1) ask her for antivirals just for while you treat with topical steroids or
2)  just use the steroids and see what happens and if you get an outbreak, ask for antivirals to treat it.
I don't think there are other options here right now.
There may be no reaction at all to the steroids - you'll just have to see.

Terri


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