A - Z Encyclopedia
Understanding Cold Sores
the Basics | Symptoms | Treatment
Treatment
How Do I Know If I Have It?
To see if you have the virus, your doctor may simply examine the cold sore or may take a culture from it.
What Are the Treatments?
You can't cure a cold sore, but you can alleviate the pain it causes by avoiding spicy or acidic foods, applying ice, and using over-the-counter remedies. Look for medicines that contain numbing agents such as phenol and emollients to reduce cracking and soften scabs. Abreva is an over-the-counter topical remedy used to help speed healing and minimize pain from a cold sore.
If your cold sore is especially painful or irritating, your doctor may prescribe an anesthetic gel to alleviate pain or an antiviral oral medication to speed healing or prevent recurrence. The antiviral agents available for treatment include acyclovir, famciclovir, and valcyclovir. These oral medications are more effective in treatment when started within the first 48 hours of the outbreak.
Cold sores can become complicated by a bacterial infection, so it is also important to keep them clean by washing gently with soap and water as needed.
How Can I Prevent Them?
- Wash your hands after touching a cold sore.
- Don't rub your eyes after touching your cold sore; you could develop an ocular herpes infection, which may lead to blindness if left untreated.
- Don't touch your genitals after touching your cold sore; you could develop genital herpes.
- Replace your toothbrush.
- Eat foods high in lysine, or take supplements.
- Don't kiss someone who has a cold sore or use the same utensils, towels, or razors.
- Use sunscreen to the face and lips before prolonged exposure to the sun.
the Basics | Symptoms | Treatment
