Cold Sores Treatment in Midland, TX

What are Cold Sores?

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters or herpes simplex labialis, have the appearance of a small blister or a group of blisters that typically develop on the lip or around the mouth. Cold sores are extremely common and caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). It is important to note that the virus stays in the body even after the cold sores go away, which may cause the sores to reappear later in a person’s lifetime.

Since the virus is so contagious, many people catch the virus that causes these sores in childhood. If you have a cold sore, you are contagious until all the sores have scabbed over.

Reduce the Spread of Cold Sores

It is important to take preventive measures to reduce your risk of spreading the virus to other people, such as:

• Don’t share food or drinks
• Avoid intimate contact
• Don’t kiss other people, especially children and newborn babies
• Don’t share personal items, like lip balm, towels or razors
• Avoid contact with people who have weakened immune systems
• Avoid touching your cold sores. If you touch a cold sore or apply medicine to it, wash your hands immediately after
• Wash your hands frequently throughout the day

Treatment for Cold Sores

Although cold sores are typically not serious and clear on their own within two weeks for people who are healthy, there are some actions you can take to help manage your symptoms. To treat cold sores at home, you may try these tips:

• Reduce pain by taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Avoid food that contains acid, such as citrus fruit or tomatoes, which may irritate the skin further.
• If you have burning, itching or tingling, this may be the first sign that a cold sore is coming. When cold sores appear, an over-the-counter antiviral cream or ointment may help relieve symptoms.
• Place a cool, wet towel on the cold sores for about 5-10 minutes to cool down the sores. This may help reduce redness and irritation.

Prescription oral antiviral medications may be helpful for shortening the viral cold sore episode if taken within the first 72 hours of the first sign of symptoms.

Schedule an Appointment

If you’re looking for treatment for cold sores in Midland, Texas, we would love to see you at Midland Dermatology! Our board-certified dermatologists and certified physician assistants can help diagnose and treat your cold sore.

For more information or to schedule an appointment at Midland Dermatology, call 432-689-2512.

*The content provided in this post is for informational purposes and does not diagnose or treat any medical conditions or diseases. Always seek guidance from a physician regarding any medical concerns you may have.