How to Remove Cold Sores

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By James A Johnson
eHow Contributing Writer

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Cold sores consist of small, often painful and typically fluid-filled blisters that most often appear around and in the mouth. There's typically a tingling effect known as the prodrome before the cold sore appears. After the prodrome is revealed it's typically followed by a blister within 48 hours. While a cold sore, if left untreated, can last for up to 10 days on average, there are ways to speed the recovery process.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Wait for the cold sore to heal itself -- it's the easiest removal method. Most sores typically heal on their own 7 to 10 days after they appear.
Step 2

Apply an over-the-counter topical symptomatic ointment. The most popular ointments include topical lidocain and benzyl alcohol (Zilactin). These therapies typically help relieve symptoms, reducing discomfort. As you tend to touch the cold sores less frequently when they are not as bothersome, the sores may heal more quickly.
Step 3

Visit your doctor and request a prescribed drug to fight the infection. Ask about Zovirax, Valtrex, Famvir, Zovirax Topical, and Denivar.
Step 4

Apply a warm compress to the infected area. While not an accepted "treatment," the compresses tend to relieve pain, helping patients avoid the infected area.
Step 5

Eat heathy. This is as much an avoidance technique as it is a treatment. Studies have shown that taking supplements when necessary and eating healthy can help prevent cold sores in individuals prone to the viral infection.

How to Remove Cold Sores

References

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