Cold sores manifest as small blisters that form on or near the lips. When the bubble breaks, a crust forms on the surface. It is also sometimes referred to simply as "lip fever". It is an infection caused by the Herpes simplex virus and is very contagious. The virus can infect the lips or genitals; although there is no cure, you can take steps to speed up the healing process.
Steps
Part 1 of 4: Recognizing Cold Sores
Step 1. Identify when herpes is about to start
This infection goes through three stages when it occurs. Although symptoms can vary, people typically present with:
- Tingling, itching, or burning sensation before the blister becomes visible.
- Bladder. Most often it forms along the edge of the lip, but it can also show up on the nose or cheeks. Young children can also have it inside their mouth.
- The bubble breaks and some liquid comes out, then a crust forms. Sometimes it takes up to a month for the blister to heal completely.
Step 2. Take better care of yourself if this is your first episode of herpes
The first outbreak is typically the worst. You may also have other symptoms, such as:
- Fever.
- Headache.
- Enlarged lymph nodes.
- Sore throat;.
- Pain in the gums.
- Muscle aches.
Step 3. See your doctor if your blister doesn't heal
Cold sores usually heal on their own without the need for medical treatment, but if this doesn't happen or you have any complications, you should see your doctor. Go to your clinic if:
- You have a compromised immune system. This may be the case for people with HIV / AIDS, who are undergoing cancer treatments, who have severe burns, eczema, or are taking anti-rejection medications after an organ transplant.
- The eyes are sore or infected.
- Frequent herpetic outbreaks that do not heal in two weeks or are very severe.
Part 2 of 4: Using Home Remedies
Step 1. Apply a cold pack
Gently press a cold, damp cloth onto the painful area. This can help reduce redness and make the rash less visible. It also softens the scab and facilitates healing.
- You can also place an ice cube in a clean cloth to slightly numb the area.
- Be sure not to rub so as not to irritate the lesion or further spread infected fluids to other areas.
Step 2. Try alternative medicines
The results of scientific studies regarding the use of alternative remedies are not yet clear, but some people say they are effective. You can try:
- Lysine. This is an amino acid that you can buy as a dietary supplement or as a cream.
- The propolis. You can also find a synthetic beeswax for cosmetic use on the market. It comes in the form of an ointment and appears to reduce the duration of the rash.
- Rhubarb and sage.
Step 3. Reduce Stress
Some people find that cold sores are caused by stress, possibly because emotional and psychological pressure lowers the immune system. If you think this is the case, consider implementing techniques to reduce your anxiety, such as:
- Relaxation techniques, including meditation, deep breathing, viewing relaxing images, yoga or tai chi.
- Physical activity. Exercising 15 to 30 minutes a day can make you feel better physically and emotionally. The body releases endorphins during movement, which can help relax and lift the mood.
- Get social support. This means keeping in touch with friends or family or consulting a counselor.
Part 3 of 4: Applying the Medications
Step 1. Use over-the-counter creams
Docosanol (Abreva) is a drug available for sale in pharmacies that can reduce the duration of the outbreak.
Read and follow the instructions on the leaflet. Consult your doctor before using this drug if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or want to use it on a baby
Step 2. Try an antiviral cream
You should apply it as soon as you start to feel a tingling sensation, before a blister has even formed. Put it up to 5 times a day for 5 days, unless a different dosage is indicated on the package. You can buy these types of creams at a pharmacy without a prescription.
- Acyclovir.
- Penciclovir.
Step 3. Get a herpes-specific patch
This device protects the bladder and at the same time releases a gel that aids the healing process. It offers the double advantage of dressing the wound, thanks to the active ingredient it contains, and of covering it, protecting it from involuntary contact. This way you limit the spread of the virus.
The gel inside it is called a hydrocolloid. If this is your first time using this product, be sure to carefully read the instructions on the package
Step 4. Treat the pain with topical creams
Cold sores can be very uncomfortable, and you may find relief by applying some ointments. Look for over-the-counter creams that contain the following active ingredients:
- Lidocaine.
- Benzocaine.
Step 5. Reduce discomfort with oral pain relievers
If topical medications aren't enough to relieve your ailment, you can take pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Ibuprofen is not recommended for people with asthma or stomach ulcers.
- Children and teens should never take aspirin.
- Consult your doctor before taking any medication if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Step 6. Take prescription antivirals
Some of these are in tablet form, while others are sold in the form of topical creams. If your herpes is really severe, you may need to give yourself an injection. If home treatments are not effective, your doctor may prescribe you:
- Aciclovir (Zovirax).
- Famciclovir (Famvir).
- Penciclovir (Vectavir).
- Valaciclovir (Valtrex, Talavir).
Part 4 of 4: Preventing Cold Sores
Step 1. Avoid touching the bladder
The virus is contagious and is found in the fluid within the lesion, although it can spread even when the blister is not yet visible. To avoid infecting others you should:
- Do not touch or pinch the bubble; you can cover it to help you.
- Do not share kitchen utensils, cutlery, razor, or towels with other people, especially if a blister has already formed.
- Do not kiss or have oral sex when the blister has already formed. This is the time when the virus spreads most easily.
Step 2. Wash your hands
Wash them thoroughly with soap after treating herpes. This is even more important if you have to come into contact with people who have weak immune systems, such as:
- Babies.
- Who is undergoing chemotherapy.
- HIV / AIDS patients.
- People who take anti-rejection drugs after an organ transplant.
- Pregnant women.
Step 3. Protect the area from sunlight and wind even when herpes is not present
For some people, sun exposure is a trigger. If this is also the case, try to follow the guidelines described below, even if no blister has formed:
- Put sunscreen on the area where herpes occurs, making sure it has an SPF of at least 15.
- Put on a lipstick with sunscreen.
- Use a lip balm that has sunscreen to prevent them from drying out, burning or cracking.
Warnings
- Check with your doctor before using any medications - even over-the-counter - and supplements if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or a child.
- Supplements and over-the-counter medications can interact with other prescription medications. If you are unsure of the safety of some products you want to use, talk to your doctor first.
- Read and follow the directions on the packaging of all medications, unless your doctor gives you different instructions.
