A fever blister, or cold sore, is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1. The condition occurs around the mouth and lips and affects eight out of 10 people, according to MedlinePlus. Common symptoms of a fever blister include fluid-filled sores, pain and irritation. Still, some people report no symptoms when the virus is transmitted, reports MedlinePlus. There is no cure for a fever blister, but some remedies and medications decrease symptoms and longevity of the condition. Fever blisters heal within a week without treatment, according to the American Dental Association.
Step 1
Take medications to decrease cold sores as soon as you experience symptoms during the prodromal stage. Symptoms during the prodromal stage include itching, soreness and pain at the site where the cold sore will develop in a day or two. Ask a medical professional for prescription antiviral medications to decrease the severity of the fever blister outbreak. Medications are similar to those used for genital herpes and come in pill or ointment form.
Step 2
Apply topical treatments to the cold sore for additional comfort. Use lidocaine or benzocaine for short-term pain relief and to decrease irritation, advises MayoClinic.com.
Step 3
Place ice on the fever blister to decrease pain. Use a disposable plastic bag to hold the ice to avoid spreading the virus to others. Apply the ice as often as needed.
Step 4
Press a warm compress to the cold sore as an alternative for pain relief. Use a disposable tissue, cloth or gauze soaked in hot water.
Step 5
Use over-the-counter pain medications to relieve inflammation and pain, advises MedlinePlus. Common OTC pain relievers include acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Drink a glass of milk or eat food when taking ibuprofen to decrease the risk of stomach ulcers.
Tips and Warnings
- Prevent spreading the virus to others or additional parts of the body by practicing frequent hand washing.
- Contact a medical professional if you feel the cold sore virus has spread to your eyes or genital region.
Things You'll Need
- Antiviral medications
- Topical medications (lidocaine or benzocaine)
- Ice
- Disposable plastic bag
- Disposable tissue, cloth or gauze
- Hot water
- Over-the-counter pain medications
- Milk or food
