The red blisters that are full of fluid and occur near the mouth or on other areas of the face are known as cold sores. They can last for two weeks or more and are caused by a virus known as herpes simplex. Listed below are some options that can be used in the treatment for cold sores.

1. Creams and Ointments
One of the most common options that are used in the treatment for cold sores is the use of creams and antiviral ointments. These ointments contain penciclovir and can help to manage pain and promote healing. They are very effective if used as soon as the first signs of a cold sore are visible and need to be applied four or five times a day for four to five days. Over-the-counter creams that contain docosanol can also be used to treat cold sores. They need to be applied a few times a day.

2. Medications
Another option that can be used in the treatment for cold sores is oral antiviral medications. This includes those with acyclovir, valacyclovir and famiciclovir. You would need to contact your doctor for these as they are available with a prescription only. Also, your doctor needs to advise you on the dosage. If you experience regular outbreaks of cold sores or if you have complications due to cold sores such as difficulty breathing or swallowing, red irritated eyes with or without a discharge or a persistent high fever, you should check with your doctor if you need to take antiviral medications regularly.

3. Home Remedies
The symptoms of cold sores can also be relieved by a few easy home remedies. These options of treatment for cold sores include applying a washcloth soaked in cold water or ice on the sore to get relief from the pain. You can also use a lip balm containing lemon extract or aloe vera or apply petroleum jelly to the area to ease the discomfort. Due to their oily texture, these products also help to prevent the sore from cracking and work as a barrier against irritants. This prevents any further infections from occurring. Applying natural astringents such as witch hazel can help to hasten the process of recovery by drying out the sore. The antiviral properties of witch hazel can also prevent cold sores from spreading. However, when using these options of treatment for cold sores, ensure that you wash your hands and use a clean cotton ball or swab. This would reduce your risk of infection.

It should be noted that this contagious health condition cannot be cured and even though the cold sores may heal, the virus would remain dormant in your body. Hence, there is a chance that they will recur.