Remedies for Cold Sores on Lips

cold sore on lipsCore sores on lips are incredibly painful. There are numerous cold sore remedies available today to treat and respond to the need for cold sore treatment. Cold sore remedies can vary from over-the-counter medications to natural remedies used for cold sore symptom control and preventing a recurrence.

Cold sores, also called fever blisters or Herpes labialis, are red, liquid-filled blisters that are associated with painful, stinging and burning sensations. What does herpes look like? Cold sores on lips and around the mouth area can be very undesirable to look at, and are definitely uncomfortable because it makes it unbearably painful when the individual eats, drinks, talks, and smiles for a number of weeks. These cold sore infections are primarily caused by the Herpes simplex Type 1 virus. Cold sores can occur on the oral areas like the lips, mouth and nearby like the nose. In most severe cases it can also develop in other areas of the body, like the eyes

It is known that a cold sore has no cure. It simply has to run its course. But a lot of treatments and cold sore remedies are available to reduce symptoms, fight infection, hasten healing, prevent the spread of infection, and reduce the chances of possible reoccurrence. The list of the top 10 ways to get rid of cold sores fast is as follows.

First off, make sure cold sores on lips, mouth and nose are clean, dry and intact. Do not touch the blisters as it can possibly cause irritation, therefore further complicating the condition. Also, avoid scratching and if it is not really bothering you, leave the cold sore blister alone. In addition, avoid putting on makeup like concealer or foundation over the sores, as it can aggravate the blisters.

The second in the line of cold sore health plans is to replace your toothbrush. The toothbrush can harbor cold sore microorganisms and viruses. Thus, to avoid multiple cold sore blisters, replace your current toothbrush. Also replace it once the cold sore has healed. Studies show that individuals who do this process reduced their annual cold sore outbreaks in a great number. Also, avoid keeping your toothbrush in the bathroom. The place is a good ground for propagation of microorganisms that can dwell on you toothbrush. Using small toothpaste tubes instead of big ones may also be ideal to prevent passing on the virus from one toothbrush to another.

Thirdly, apply petroleum jelly in the affected area. Petroleum jelly can contain the sore, leaving it moisturized, covered from other infections, and spread of the disease is prevented. Make sure hand washing is done before and after application, or usage of cotton tip applicator may be ideal. Applying emollient may also be helpful, as it can maintain moisture to the sore, leaving it free from cracking and drying, and scabs are less likely to leave marks.

Fourth, apply water based zinc solutions for quicker healing process. Zinc helps inhibit the Herpes virus from reproducing. Additionally, zinc is an antioxidant that helps build your body’s defenses.

Fifth is to take supplements and medication. The Abreva cold sore medication is the single non-prescription cold sore medication accepted by the FDA to cut down healing time and the period of cold sore symptoms.

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One Response to “Remedies for Cold Sores on Lips”

  1. Buck Peters 31. May, 2011 at 10:57 am #

    All very good information. I might add that for many, applying an ice cube to the cold sore will help relieve the pain and inhibit the growth of the virus. Just wrap the ice cube in a couple of tissues and hold it against the cold sore for 10 mins, several times a day. Try it, it works !

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