Cold Sore Treatments that Work Fast

Cold sores are unpleasant fluid-filled blisters developed in the lips and mouth areas. Also referred to as fever blisters, these blisters are caused due to infection by herpes simplex virus (abbreviated as HSV). This virus has two virulent strains - HSV-1 and HSV-2. Although both types can cause cold sores, majority of the reported cases are resulted because of HSV-1 infection.

The eruption cold sores can be felt beforehand as tingling sensation in the areas, where the sores will develop. Within a few days time, blisters are developed, which open, scab, and then, crust over. Collectively, the healing process takes about 2 - 3 weeks. This condition is not very serious, and the symptoms subside on their own, after a few days.

Using regular medications at the tingling stage will effectively help in minimizing eruption of sores. Some people who have used Para Aminobenzoic Acid (PABA) claim that this formulation is the best treatment. It aids in preventing eruption, provided it is taken in the initial stages, preferably before eruption of fever blisters.

The most worrying part about fever blisters is that they are contagious. And treatment approaches include keeping the area covered, without pinching, or squeezing. Frequent touching irritates the sores, and cause exacerbation of the symptoms. Apply petroleum jelly over the sores to avoid dryness, and speed the healing period.

Medicinal herbs that work wonders in getting rid of cold sores are tea tree oil, aloe vera, sage extract, and witch hazel. All of them possess antimicrobial properties, which help in killing the causal virus, and alleviating the painful symptoms.

Home remedies aim at combating the symptoms, but not actually curing the condition. Applying cold compresses, or putting teabags are effective to give instant pain relief in patients. Some people claim that putting warm compresses over the affected areas reduce pain intensity.

Believe it or not, eating healthy foods aids in shortening the healing process of cold sores. They help in boosting the natural defense mechanism, which, in turn, quickens recovery. Drink lots of fluids, and keep the body hydrated. Reduce intake of spicy and acidic fruits or else, they may exacerbate the discomfort symptoms during cold sore outbreaks.

Taking precautions to prevent cold sore outbreaks is advisable, instead of taking hassles for treating painful sores. Because, even if you follow treatments that work quickest, the healing course will be shortened by just 2 or 3 days, but not more than that.

Preventive measures include avoiding direct contact with infected people, and not sharing clothes or utensils with them.

As of date, there is no herpes cure as such. Remember that herpes virus require warm, moist, and acidic environment for proliferation. Hence, treatments are based on avoiding these favorable conditions. Antiviral drugs are the best solution for this condition.

Timely administration of these medications in correct dosage, help in reducing lesions, spreading of blisters, and managing pain. If cold sores are identified at the first sign, preventing lesions is also possible with antiviral drugs.