Fever blisters, also known as cold sores, are the result of an infection from the herpes simplex virus. Cold sores are most commonly caused by a particular strain of herpes--type 1--although type 2 herpes (which normally causes genital herpes) can also infect the mouth. The result is itchy and often painful blisters on the lips and other surfaces of the mouth.
Step 1
Keep the blister clean and dry. This helps prevent the blister from being infected. Drying the blister out also makes it easier for the blister to heal.
Step 2
Apply cold or heat. According to the Mayo Clinic, placing ice or a warm compresses on the blister may help ease some of the pain and swelling.
Step 3
Take a pain reliever. Medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can relieve the pain and stinging that these blisters can cause.
Step 4
Use topical ointments. Topical lidocaine and benzyl alcohol ointments, which are available over the counter, can numb the affected area.
Step 5
Take antiviral medications. These prescription drugs, such as acyclovir, can help speed the recovery and healing of fever blisters in children.
Things You'll Need
- Ice
- Warm compress
- Pain relievers
- Lidocaine or benzyl alcohol ointment
- Acyclovir
