Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus, type 1 (HSV-1), but don't be alarmed. A study published in PLOS One found that 63.6% of adults aged 40-79 analysed in one part of the UK have HSV-1. Many of those infected with the virus may never manifest symptoms.
A cold sore usually goes away on its own within two weeks, but if you have a major event on your calendar — like a wedding or an important job interview — you’ll probably want to find the quickest way to clear it up. Read on to find out more about how to get rid of a cold sore fast, cold sore treatment options and how you can prevent future outbreaks.
For the best results, see your doctor or dentist at the first hint of a cold sore – usually when you feel a tingling or burning sensation. He or she can prescribe an antiviral medication to help your cold sore heal more quickly. Though the antiviral medication won't eliminate the virus from your system, it can reduce the duration of a cold sore outbreak.
According to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, your doctor may prescribe one of two formats:
These medications are most effective when taken before the blisters appear. When you feel a cold sore coming — tingling, swelling, redness or a burning sensation in the area are all clues — the medications can help heal the cold sores or even stop them from appearing at all.
Though antiviral tablets are only available with a prescription, many over-the-counter cold sore treatment options can help reduce the pain and discomfort you feel. According to the NHS, these ointments, creams, patches, or electronic devices can speed up the healing process, and sometimes they can protect the skin while it heals, too. Look for a topical cream that contains acyclovir, penciclovir, or docosanol. Just like the prescription medications, these over-the-counter options work best when used at the first signs of a cold sore outbreak.
If you're looking to reduce the pain and discomfort of a cold sore, numbing creams that work as a local anaesthetic to help numb pain and provide cold sore relief are also available. These creams contain active ingredients like benzocaine, lidocaine, and tetracaine.
If you’re wondering how to get rid of cold sores, there are a few home remedies you can try. If your medicine cabinet isn't stocked with antiviral medication, use these overnight cold sore treatment options until you can see a doctor or visit a pharmacy.
Though the virus that causes cold sores does not have a cure, there are measures you can take to prevent outbreaks. These preventive cold sore treatment measures include:
Cold sores can be annoying, painful, and inconvenient. When you have an important event on your calendar, use these tips to get rid of a cold sore fast, prevent future outbreaks, and restore your lovely smile.
Now you know how to get rid of cold sores and prevent them, it’s also important to know what not to do when an unwanted visitor appears on your lip. The NHS suggests some things to avoid when you’re sporting a cold sore, we’ve outlined them below:
Cold sores can be annoying, painful, and inconvenient. If yours is particularly large, painful or lasts longer than 10 days, make an appointment with your doctor to get it checked. When you have an important event on your calendar, use our home remedies and tips to get rid of a cold sore fast, prevent future outbreaks and restore your lovely smile!
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