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How to Treat Cold Sores

Last Update: March 12, 2009

Video By: LIVESTRONG.COM

Cold sores are a symptom of the Herpes virus and can be prevented or treated with over-the-counter medicines. Learn how to prevent cold sores in this medical advice video.

Take Action

  • Use prescription medicines to prevent cold sores
  • Use medicine to make cold sores go away faster
  • Do not kiss others while an outbreak is occurring

About this Author

Lisa Rhodes, M.D. received her medical degree from the University of Texas Health and Science Center in San Antonio, where she graduated valedictorian. She completed her dermatology residency at North Western University in Chicago and currently works in Austin, Texas. Her favorite part of her job is diagnosing skin conditions and treating them in order to help patients live better lives.

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Video Transcript

DR. LISA RHODES: Hi, I'm Doctor Lisa Rhodes with the Westlake Dermatology and Cosmetic Surgery. Cold sores, those red oozy sites that you see around patient's lips or sometimes involving the nose or sides of the cheek are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Usually, before you develop one of these bumps, you have what's called a prodrome which is where you feel a little tingle or burning in the area. The best treatment is as soon as you feel that prodrome to take an oral prescription medication that will help prevent the virus from coming to the surface of the skin and causing a lesion. Once you already have the lesion, there are over-the-counter creams that can help dry them up faster.

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