Fever blisters, also called cold sores, appear as small, painful, fluid-filled blisters on the lips, according to MayoClinic.com. Caused by a form of the herpes simplex virus, the first outbreak results from direct contact with another person's active lesion. Thereafter, the virus remains dormant in the body until stress, fatigue, fever or hormone changes trigger another outbreak. Although no cure is available, treatment can reduce pain and shorten outbreaks. Without treatment, fever blisters generally resolve within two weeks.
Topical Medications
Step 1
Buy an appropriate cream or ointment. Over-the-counter ointments such as lidocaine or benzocaine can relieve discomfort and protect the area from irritation, advises MayoClinic.com. Docosanol 10 percent cream, the only over-the-counter medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to shorten the healing time of cold sores and blisters, also relieves pain, itching and burning, according to Drugs.com. Antiviral creams, including acyclovir and penciclovir are available by prescription, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Step 2
Wash your hands to avoid contaminating the medication.
Step 3
Apply the medication directly to the affected site as soon as possible at the first sign that a fever blister is developing. Early signs include a bump, tingling or redness on the lip, according to Drugs.com. Rub the medication in completely.
Step 4
Wash your hands to avoid contaminating other parts of your body or other individuals.
Step 5
Repeat the applications five times a day until the sore is healed, or as otherwise instructed, according to Drugs.com.
Other Measures
Step 1
Apply an ice cube or a cold or warm compress to the affected area for pain relief. Repeat as often as needed.
Step 2
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve discomfort.
Step 3
Talk to your health care provider about taking an oral antiviral medication. If started early, medications such as acyclovir, famciclovir or valacyclovir can shorten the length of the outbreak and relieve pain, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Step 4
Practice relaxation techniques to reduce stress and promote healing. Try yoga, deep breathing or listening to music.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid irritating, squeezing, pinching or picking at the affected area. If you apply lipstick, use a cotton swab to avoid contaminating the cosmetic with the virus, advises Drugs.com. To prevent spreading the virus, avoid direct contact with others while your blisters are moist. Do not share utensils, towels or lip balm, and wash your hands frequently Avoid triggering outbreaks. Triggers may include stress, fatigue, colds and sun exposure.
- Aspirin has been linked with Reye's syndrome, so use caution when giving aspirin to children or teenagers, according to MayoClinic.com. Children under the age of 12 should not use certain topical medications. Talk to your health care provider about treatment of fever blisters in young children.
Things You'll Need
- Over-the-counter medication
- Ice or heat packs
- Prescription medication, optional
