The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research reports that 500,000 Americans experience their first bouts of cold sores each year. Most cases resolve within about two weeks with no treatment, according to the Mayo Clinic. At-home cold sore treatment can relieve interim discomfort, as well as cold sore-associated symptoms, such as fever, headache, muscle aches or swollen nymph nodes.
Indications
In the June 9, 2008 edition of "Archives of Internal Medicine," dermatologist Christina Cernik explains that doctors typically reserve prescription antiviral drugs for patients with cold sores inside the mouth, large numbers of cold sores on the lips or face, recurrent outbreaks of cold sores or complications of cold sores, such as infection of the eyes or brain. At-home cold sore treatment is suitable for patients with mild, moderate or infrequent outbreaks.
Types
At-home cold sore treatment starts with over-the-counter ointments that contain topical anesthetics such as lidocaine, benzocaine or tetracaine, according to the Mayo Clinic. Over-the-counter oral medications such as aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen can also help, especially for cold sore-associated symptoms such as fever and headache. But as with any other medication, it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions. To supplement the effects of over-the-counter medications or for those who prefer not to use medications at all, the Mayo Clinic recommends applying hot or cold compresses.
Safety
Over-the-counter medications are considered safe when used as directed. Children with cold sores should not take aspirin because of the risk of a rare but serious neurological disorder known as Reye's syndrome. Parents and caregivers of children who take doctor-prescribed aspirin for the management of other medical problems should talk to their doctors about whether to continue treatment during an outbreak. Those who use hot or cold compresses should limit application to 20 minutes per session to avoid tissue damage from heat or cold.
Effectiveness
At-home cold sore treatment does not influence the duration of cold sore symptoms or the risk of recurrence. At-home treatment does improve pain and itching related to cold sores. Effectiveness varies by the individual and the type of treatment selected. Avoiding triggers for discomfort such as picking or playing with the sores and consuming hot, spicy, acidic or hard food or beverages can help. People who experience outbreaks that last longer than two weeks should see a doctor or dentist, because this suggests a problem other than a cold sore.
Considerations
Keeping cold sores clean plays an important role in healing. Those with cold sores should clean affected skin with mild soap and water at least two times per day. The Academy of General Dentistry recommends applying lip balm or other emollients to keep the cold sores from drying or cracking as they heal. Products that contain aloe may speed healing, according to the academy, while products that contain sunscreen can lower the risk of recurrence. Ultraviolet light from the sun triggers outbreaks for many people.
References
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research: Oral Health in America: A Report of the Surgeon General
- "Archives of Internal Medicine"; The Treatment of Herpes Simplex Infections; Christina Cernik, M.D., et al.; June 9, 2008
- MayoClinic.com: Cold Sores
- Academy of General Dentistry: What Are Cold Sores?
- "Hazzard's Geriatric Medicine and Gerontology, 6th edition"; J.B. Halter et al.; 2009
- HealthyChildren.org: Oral Herpes
