Originally Posted by dizzie lizzy

Dorrie,

I understand how frightening it can be when first diagnosed. The truth is though that anywhere from 1in 4 to 1 in 3 people have it. The first time is incredibly painful. Something that helped me was taking a very hot bath and then drying with a hairdryer on low. That gives temporary relief while the prescriptions are working. The upside is that by and large it will be very obvious to her when an outbreak is going to happen so she can start the Rx right away and the pain will never be as bad again. It does suck big time to have to live with it the rest of your life, but it could be much much worse. If your friend would feel better talking to someone else who has been through it. I am happy to support her as much as possible on here.