Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1. According to MedlinePlus, the virus infects more than 50 percent of Americans by the time their reach their 20s. Cold sores appear mostly on and near the mouth and, infrequently, on the roof of the mouth or the gums. They appear from a week to 20 days after you are first exposed to the virus. There is no cure, and treatment includes the application of ointments to alleviate discomfort. However, most cold sores disappear within two weeks without treatment. Stronger medications can decrease the time during which cold sores are visible.
Step 1
Respond quickly to the feeling of pain or tingling, called the prodrome, that precedes a cold sore outbreak by one to two days. Treatments that might shorten the life of your cold sore and significantly alleviate pain and other symptoms must be started early in your outbreak. Lidocaine ointments relieve the pain of cold sores; benzocaine creams shield against further damage to the area.
Step 2
Apply an oral antiviral medications to your cold sore as early as possible in your outbreak. Ask your doctor about these medications and obtain a prescription. These medications must be started quickly to decrease the time cold scores are visible and to alleviate pain, according to MayoClinic.com. Oral antiviral medications include acyclovir, valacyclovir and famciclovir. Your doctor may prescribe idoxuridine paint within 24 hours of your outbreak to alleviate pain and shorten the life of your cold sore.
Step 3
Increase your intake of lysine, either in your diet or as a supplement. Lysine is an essential amino acid, a nutrient your body needs but cannot make. Lysine can reduce the frequency of cold sore outbreaks, according to MedlinePlus. You doctor can help you decide if lysine is an appropriate treatment for you.
Tips and Warnings
- Examine your breakout to be sure it is a cold sore. Cold sores are small and painful and appear singly or in groups. The blisters of often filled with fluid and appear on a reddened, raised patch of skin. Canker sores, which are not cold sores and are not contagious, appear inside the mouth on cheeks or under the tongue. Cold sore blisters break, ooze and form a yellow crust. Cold sores heal without leaving scars (See Ref 3).
- Cold sores are very contagious, so avoid kissing or sharing utensils with other people during your outbreak.
Things You'll Need
- Oral antiviral medication
- Benzocaine
- Lidocaine
- Lysine supplements
