How to Treat Cold Sores and Fever Blisters

The tingling begins and then by the next morning a blister appears. The shock of a cold sore can affect your whole day. Not only do you have a painful blister on your lips, but the sight of it can make you self conscious. It can affect speaking and eating and just plain ruin the day or week. This article will provide some methods to prevent and shorten cold sores/fever blisters.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Ice
• Vitamin C
• L-Lysine
• Tea Bags
• Abreva
• Campho-Phenique
• Lip Balm (Blistex)

1. 
    

   Ice
   Most patients say that the onset of a cold sore is preceded by a tingling sensation. During this tingly stage a patient can place an ice cube directly on the site for 5 to 10 minutes off an on for 1/2 hour to reduce the size of the blister.

2. Vitamin C
   Vitamin C can be used to boost the immune response. Cold sores/fever blisters are caused by the herpes virus, so an improved immune response will help in preventing cold sores.

3. 
    

   L-Lysine
   The essential amino acid, L-lysine, has been shown to inhibit normal replication of HSV, shortening the course and duration of the disease. Cold Sores are thought to be associated with arginine imbalance. Taking l-lysine can counteract the imbalance thereby reducing a cold sore' s duration or preventing them during the tingly stage.

4. Lip Balm with Zinc Oxide
   Cold sores are thought to be triggered by sunlight. Using a lip balm with zinc oxide can help in preventing cold sores by reflecting the sun's rays.

5. 
    

   Tea bag
   A moist tea bag placed on the site of the potential cold sore can reduce the occurrence of fever blisters. Tannic Acid found in tea bags is thought to have a role as an anti-viral.

6. Campho-Phenique
   Is a lip ointment that can reduce swelling and help reduce the pain of the blister.

7. 
    

   Abreva
   In terms of over-the-counter medications is the gold standard in treating and preventing cold sores. Abreva has been shown to clinically reduce the duration of cold sores and prevent cold sores during the tingly stage.

Tips & Warnings

• Always consult your Pharmacist or Doctor for questions, concerns, and interactions.

Resources

• Treat Gas, Belching, and Bloating
• Immunizations and Babies
• Treating Migraines and Headaches

[Ladybugblue]

on 3/4/2009 Thanks for the great tips! 5*