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 painful sores 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. Cold sore treatments that work fast are followed to quicken the healing period of the blisters.

Cold Sore Treatments that Really Work

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 stages of cold sores healing process take about 2-3 weeks. These frustrating sores are not very serious and the symptoms subside on their own after some days. However, most people look out for cold sore treatments that work fast, to get relieve from painful symptoms and also, for cosmetic reasons. Effectual approaches for cold sore treatment are:

Over-the-Counter Drugs
Using regular cold sore 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 cold sore treatment. It aids in preventing sore eruption, provided that it is taken in the initial stages, preferably before eruption of fever blisters.

Avoid Touching and Squeezing
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 cold sore symptoms. Apply petroleum jelly over the sores to avoid dryness and speed the healing period.

Go for Herbal Treatment
Herbal remedies are included in the cold sore treatments that work fast. 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.

Stick to Home Remedies
Following cold sore home remedies is aimed 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.

Consume Healthy Diet
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.

Precaution is the Key
Taking precautions to prevent cold sore outbreaks is advisable, instead of taking hassles for treating painful sores. Because, even if you follow cold sore treatments that work fastest, 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 cloths 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, cold sore treatments that work fast are based on avoiding these favorable conditions. Whether you refer to cold sore treatments that work for women or men, antiviral drugs are the solution. 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.