Another name used for cold sores is fever blisters or oral herpes. This condition is caused by virus called HSV-1 Herpes Simplex Virus; there is another version of this virus also called HSV-2 which is responsible for genital herpes. Majority of world population carries this virus; according to some statistic people in 90% of people in age range 50 to 80 years carry this virus while 50% of American children already have HSV-1 but the good news is that very less number shows the symptoms of this condition. According to some information only 30% shows the specific symptoms of herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) which is called cold sores or fever blisters.
What Can I Use For a Cold Sore?
There are different types of treatment available for cold sores. Let’s first discuss some working home remedies. For healing HSV-1 all those compounds are considered highly beneficial which are immune booster, antiviral and antimicrobial in nature. There are home remedies which prevent spreading of the virus and also reduce the chances of future outbreaks.
Home Remedies for Healing Cold Sores
Toothpaste to Cure Cold Sores
Ordinary home toothpaste comes with healing properties for cold sores. The process is; before applying the paste to the infected area it is important to thoroughly clean the area with antibacterial agent to make it free from germs and other types of bacteria. Then apply the paste to the infected area. For getting optimum benefits from this treatment it is important gently press the applied paste to make sure that your blisters comes in contact with the toothpaste firmly. It is also important to keep this toothpaste for three days and then wash it away. After three days clean the paste from the affected and you will notice the blister should have disappeared now.
Ice Treatment for Cold Sores
For temporary relief apply cold pack directly to blisters. Ice may not decree the duration of the flare-up but it can reduce discomfort and inflammation associated with this condition.
Ice may not reduce the duration of a breakout, but it can ease the discomfort and inflammation of cold sores. Apply a cold pack directly to the sores for temporary relief.
Eating vitamin E and C rich foods
Other remedies include;
- Milk contains antibodies and l-lysine
- Peppermint, mint, and witch hazel oil
Over The Counter Treatment For Cold Sores
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm comes with natural properties for reducing the redness and swelling associated with cold sore. But this lemon balm treatment can’t reduce the pain associated with this condition. According to most research lip balm with at least one percent of lemon balm is best for this treatment. Lemon balm is also considered a best remedy for reducing the chances of future outbreaks.
Lemon Tea or Lemon Compress
Lemon tea or lemon compress also comes with beneficial effects for healing cold sores and also prevents future flare-ups.
Lysine Cream
Lysine cream or lysine supplement is another way of healing this disease in fast way. Lysine is important for boosting immune system.
Aloe Vera Gel
You can use the same Aloe Vera gel for cold sores healing which you use for sunburn. Research suggests that Aloe Vera gel comes with virus fighting attributes including Herpes Simplex Virus too. For achieving optimum benefits from this treatment it is important to apply this gel at least three times a day to the affected area.
Medical Treatment for Cold Sores
Your physician will suggest the treatment according to your history.
Treatment for Primary Cold Sore;-
For primary outbreak your doctor will probably suggest antiviral medication. The important point is that these antiviral medicines only work if the condition is caught in the very beginning. There are different medicines your physician may prescribe;
- Acyclovir (Xerese, Zovirax)
- Famciclovir (Famvir)
- Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
- Penciclovir (Denavir)
Treatment for Recurrence of Cold Sores:-
Avoid picking at the sores, not allowing the virus to spread to other areas. Keep the infected area clean and dry. This time you doctor may suggest antiseptic mouthwash. Other medicines include topical antiviral creams. In our severe flare-ups your doctor may also suggest some oral medications as well. The healing duration is normally 7 to 15 days.
Appendix:
Symptoms of Oral Herpes/Cold Sores/ Lip Blisters
- Swollen Glands
- Swollen and irritated gums with small, painful sores in and around the mouth – this is known as herpes simplex gingivostomatitis.
- Excessive saliva than normal
- Sore throat
- High temperature more than 100 degrees F
- Nausea
- Feeling sick
- Headache
- Dehydration
- Headache
Related Information
