Fever blisters cause pain, inflammation and discomfort. Caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1, the condition is commonly referred to as a cold sore. Fever blisters generally form on the lips and outside of the mouth. According to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health, nearly half of the U.S. population suffers from cold sores by the age of 20. No cure for herpes simplex type 1 exists. However, a variety of home remedies and treatments can promote healing.
Step 1
Discuss taking prescription antiviral medications with a medical professional. The medications should be started during the prodromal, or warning, period before the fever blister appears. Symptoms such as tingling and redness occur during this stage. A cold sore often erupts within one to two days.
Step 2
Massage topical ointments such as lidocaine and benzocaine onto the cold sore location to decrease pain and inflammation. Wash your hands after application to prevent passing the virus to others, or infecting other areas of your body.
Step 3
Wipe a drying agent, such as 70 percent rubbing alcohol, onto the blister when it first appears, advises the University of Michigan's University Health Service. The alcohol dries out the fluids forming in the fever blister. Use a cotton swab or cotton ball to apply the solution directly onto the fever blister and then discard it.
Step 4
Press a cold pack or ice onto the cold sore. The ice numbs the area and decreases pain. MedlinePlus also recommends a warm compress. Use both methods as often as needed to decrease pain.
Step 5
Administer over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen or aspirin. Do not allow children or teenagers to take aspirin because of the risk of developing Reye's syndrome. Always eat food or drink milk before taking ibuprofen to decrease the risk of gastric ulcers or bleeding.
Tips and Warnings
- The American Dental Association reports that fever blisters generally heal in about a week, without treatment. Prevent the spread of fever blisters by not sharing personal items such as toothbrushes. Reduce stress and always wear sunscreen, advises the University of Maryland Medical Center.
- Never pick or scratch a cold sore. The cold sore can become infected and healing time increases if the cold sore becomes irritated. Do not touch your eyes or genital areas when you have a cold sore.
Things You'll Need
- Antiviral medications
- Topical ointments (lidocaine and benzocaine)
- Rubbing alcohol (70 percent)
- Cotton swab or cotton ball
- Cold pack or ice
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
