Cold sores are small spots that are filled with fluid.
They usually appear on or around the lips, but they can also occur on the chin, cheeks, and nose.
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus, which can spread from person to person by close contact or by sharing personal items such as towels, utensils, or lip balm.
If cold sores are troubling you too, then this post might help you as we are sharing several effective home remedies and medical treatments that can help you get rid of cold sores quickly.
How to Get Rid of Cold Sores
If you are suffering from a cold sore, there are several things you can do to help it heal faster and make it less painful.
Apply a Cold Compress
Applying a cold compress to the area may reduce pain and swelling.
Wrap some ice cubes in a clean towel and hold it against the cold sore for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day.
Use a Topical Cream
Docosanol or benzyl alcohol-based creams that you can buy over the counter can help reduce the length and severity of cold sores.
You should apply these creams to the sores several times a day as soon as you notice the first signs of cold sores.
Pharmacist-Recommended Cold Sore Treatment – Abreva Cold Sore Cream
You can try Natural Remedies
There are several natural remedies that can help to get rid of cold sores, including:
Aloe Vera
The juice of the aloe vera plant can help heal cold sores and make them feel better.
According to a study published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment, aloe vera gel has been shown to have antiviral and analgesic properties, which can help reduce the duration of cold sores and alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with them.
Apply a small amount of aloe vera juice to the affected area several times a day.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil has antiviral properties that may help to reduce inflammation and speed up the healing process of cold sores.
One study published in the Journal of Antiviral Research found that tea tree oil was effective against the herpes simplex virus, which is the virus that causes cold sores.
Several times a day, put a few drops of tea tree oil on a cotton ball and apply it to the cold sore.
Lemon Balm
There is some scientific evidence that suggests Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) may help to reduce the symptoms of cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV).
Lemon Balm contains plant compounds that possess antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties which may help to prevent the virus from spreading and reduce symptoms.
Apply a small amount of lemon balm cream or lotion to the affected area several times a day.
Effective Medicine for Cold Sores
If your cold sores are severe or frequent, your doctor may give you antiviral medication to shorten the time they last and prevent them from coming back.
Pharmacist-Recommended Cold Sore Treatment – Abreva Cold Sore Cream
Frequently Ask Question
What causes cold sores?
Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which can be spread by close contact with an infected person or by sharing personal items such as towels, utensils, or lip balm.
Are Cold Spots Contagious?
Yes, cold spots can spread to other people. The herpes simplex virus spreads easily by being close to someone who has it, especially when that person is having an attack.
Can stress cause a cold?
Yes, anxiety can cause colds and flu in some people. Other causes are sun exposure, changes in your hormones, or a weakened immune system.
Can I avoid cold sores?
There’s no surefire way to avoid getting cold sores, but there are things you can do to lower your chances of getting them. Some of these are staying away from people who have colds, not sharing personal items like towels or tools, using lip balm with sunscreen, and finding ways to cope with stress.
When do I need to see a doctor?
You should see a doctor if your cold sores are severe or if they do not heal within two weeks. Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medication to help reduce the duration and severity of your cold sores. So consult the Best dermatologist in Canada for assistance and make changes to your diet as needed.
Conclusion
To get rid of cold sores, you can try several effective home remedies and medical treatments. Using a cold compress and a cream on the skin can help reduce pain and swelling.
Natural remedies like aloe vera, tea tree oil, and lemon balm can speed up the healing process because they kill viruses and reduce inflammation.
If you get cold sores often or they are very bad, your doctor may give you an antiviral drug to stop them from coming back.
You can get rid of cold sores quickly and keep them from coming back with these home remedies and medical treatments.