Cold sores may develop as painful and inflamed sores that last for a week or longer, according to MedlinePlus. These sores typically occur on the lips, cheeks, nostrils and chin. Unfortunately, there isn't a cure for cold sores. Prescription medications can ease the pain and speed up healing time. However, if you prefer to use natural cold sore methods, there are a couple of alternatives to minimize cold sore pain.
Causes
Specific strains of the herpes virus cause cold sores, according to MayoClinic.com. Herpes simplex virus 1 is typically the cause of cold sores. The virus is spread by contact with another person who has an active lesion. Sharing personal items may also spread the virus. After you've developed the virus, it lies dormant in the skin until a trigger occurs to cause an outbreak. Common cold sores triggers include stress, fatigue and sun exposure, according to MayoClinic.com.
How it Works
Cold sores typically clear up without treatment; however, a few natural treatments may ease the discomfort. According to MayoClinic.com, applying a cold or warm compress may assist with relieving pain. You can also apply a cold or warm tea bag to the cold sore to treat pain. Aloe vera can also be applied to the cold sore for healing.
Considerations
Avoid picking or squeezing cold sore blisters. Doing this may cause inflammation, infection and scarring. Avoid touching the blister, except when washing your face. Wash with clean hands to prevent bacteria transfer to the cold sore.
Prevention/Solution
Avoid developing cold sores by minimizing triggers, such as stress and not getting enough sleep. Infections with the flu or a cold also increase your risk for developing cold sores. Use sun block before prolonged sun exposure, recommends MayoClinic.com. Sun exposure can trigger cold sore outbreaks.
Warnings
Prevent the spread of cold sores by not sharing items such as cups, utensils, towels and lip balm when a cold sore outbreak occurs. Avoid kissing during an outbreak. Also, be careful about touching the cold sore and other parts of your body. The eyes and genitals are susceptible to the spread of cold sores, according to MayoClinic.com. If you have frequent cold sore outbreaks that don't respond to natural treatments, your doctor can offer prescription oral antiviral medications. Acyclovir, Famciclovir and Valacyclovir are common cold sore treatments.
