Cold Sore Treatment

Antiviral medications can help reduce the pain and duration of cold sore outbreaks. These drugs won't get rid of the virus, but they can help prevent the outbreaks and make the healing process faster. Some antiviral medications come in the form of creams or tablets that you can apply directly to the outbreak. For more effective cold sore treatment, your doctor may prescribe intravenous antiviral medication. You can order prescription medications online through a pharmacy.

The best way to treat cold sores is to know what triggers them in the first place. Try to avoid skin-to-skin contact with people who have cold sores. Avoid stress, major illnesses, and skin contact with infants or other people who have cold sores. If you have experienced an outbreak in the past, learn how to treat it as soon as possible. Often, the earliest treatment is the most effective. If you're still worried, talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to treat your cold sores.

Most people experience prodromal symptoms of cold sores before they develop blisters. These typically last a day or two before they become noticeable. They heal completely within a few weeks, but they're often unsightly. To help prevent recurring outbreaks, visit a pharmacist or visit your GP. For most people, cold sores clear up on their own after one to two weeks. If you experience symptoms on the lips, however, you should visit a pharmacist for an assessment.

Topical creams and ointments are other alternatives to prescribed drugs. They may reduce pain and relieve the discomfort of cold sores. They also help block the spread of bacteria, which may cause a secondary infection in viral sores. Vaseline and Aquaphor are a few products you can find over-the-counter. If these do not work, you can try natural treatments, such as rhubarb and sage cream.

Topical creams are often effective for cold sore treatment. A cream should be applied to the affected area as soon as you notice a tingle or any other symptoms. Applying the cream immediately after tingling or swelling is essential because treatment at the earliest stage will yield the most effective results. The cream should be applied five times a day for several days. You should also avoid touching or sharing things that contain sores as they can spread the virus.

Aside from using topical creams, you can also apply a cream with antiviral properties. Some antiviral creams contain acyclovir, which is an antiviral medication used for recurring outbreaks of HSV. They work by fighting bacteria and reducing the pain and itching. Topical creams can also contain herbs that help reduce the discomfort of cold sores. For instance, lemon balm contains Vitamin B, which is effective against herpes simplex type 1 and 2.

Applying a cold compress is another effective cold sore treatment method. Ice compresses are excellent for cold sores and help them heal faster. In some cases, using an ice compress is enough to prevent an outbreak from developing into a full-blown one. If you don't have the time to apply cold sore medication, you can always apply a lip balm with SPF 30 or higher. The best way to treat cold sores is to seek medical attention immediately, as these sores can be contagious.