Outbreaks commonly occur when you experience a great deal of stress, are overly tired and fatigued, or when you have a viral infection or fever (cold sores are also known as “fever blisters”). [4] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source
The antiviral creams to look out for include acyclovir, penciclovir, and docosanol. In a study penciclovir was reported to have the highest antiviral effectiveness. You will need to apply these creams for four or five days, and up to five times each day. When you apply the cream be sure to use a cotton swab or wear a disposable rubber glove so you don’t contaminate your hands.
Regular painkillers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol can be taken to ease the pain of sores.
A cream of rhubarb and sage has been cited as a homemade alternative to acyclovir cream. [10] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Stress has been linked to cold sore outbreaks, so lowering your levels of stress could help. [11] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source A topical ointment of 1% lemon balm or 0. 5% aloe can help your cold sore heal if you’re looking for a natural remedy. [12] X Expert Source Andrea Rudominer, MD, MPHBoard Certified Pediatrician & Integrative Medicine Doctor Expert Interview. 13 April 2020.
If you do touch the cold sore, be sure that you wash your hands immediately afterwards. If you don’t, you could spread the virus to other parts of your body.
It is also important not kiss anybody or perform oral sex. This can transport the virus to your partner. If someone has oral sex while they have a cold sore, they can transmit the virus to their partner and cause herpes in the genital area. [15] X Research source
It is also possible for your eyes to become infected, potentially leading to scarring, injury and problems with your vision. A cold sore can spread to other areas of your skin. If you have eczema this is a particular risk, and can become a serious medical problem. [17] X Trustworthy Source American Academy of Dermatology Professional organization made of over 20,000 certified dermatologists Go to source
Alternatively, you can gently apply petroleum jelly over the sore to offer it some protection. If you do this be sure that you wash your hands thoroughly first. [19] X Research source
If you have cold sores around your lips and mouth, spicy, salty and acidic food can irritate them. They to avoid these kinds of food when you have a cold sore. [21] X Research source
