Eight out of every 10 people have the virus that causes cold sores, according to the Patient Education Institute. Cold sores, sometimes referred to as fever blisters, are red blisters that appear on a lip or around the mouth. Although cold sores are generally considered harmless, learning the facts can help you prevent them or else manage them easier when they do appear.
Learn About Prevention
Cold sore prevention is important. Once a person gets the virus that causes cold sores, it stays in the body and may cause cold sores to appear periodically for the rest of the person's life. To prevent getting the cold sore virus, people should not share personal items, including lip balms, toothbrushes, utensils or drinks and should avoid kissing people who may have cold sores.
Identify Triggers
The cold sore virus typically causes cold sores when another illness is compromising the immune system, explains the National Patient Education Institute. Stress, colds, menstruation, digestive problems or injury to the lips can trigger a cold sore outbreak. People who have had cold sores in the past should be on the lookout for new cold sores to appear when these situations occur. If they feel the tingling sensation that indicates a new cold sore is developing, treating it immediately may shorten its severity or duration.
Keep Comfortable
People with cold sores can do many things to make themselves more comfortable, suggests KidsHealth.org. Acidic, salty and spicy foods may irritate the cold sore, so it is best to avoid those foods when a cold sore is present. Taking a pain reliever like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can reduce pain from the sore. Sucking on a Popsicle or ice cube can also ease the pain without the use of medication.
Consider Medication
Medication may be useful for people with severe or painful cold sores. Topical treatments include lidocaine and benzocaine, while oral antiviral medications include acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir, lists MayoClinic.com. These medications may lessen the severity or duration of the cold sores.
Hands Off
Keeping hands away from the sore while it is healing is important. Although it is tempting to pick at the cold sore, doing so can delay the healing process or infect the sore with bacteria.
Know When to See a Doctor
Although most cold sores are harmless, some situations do warrant a visit to the doctor. If the cold sore doesn't heal on its own within one or two weeks or if symptoms are particularly severe, call a doctor. People who have compromised immune system, eye irritation or who frequently get cold sores should also talk to a doctor about their condition, suggests MayoClinic.com.
