Debate on exactly how to treat fever blisters has been around for some time since the variant of the herpes simplex virus has been known for several centuries. But exactly what are fever blisters? First off Fever Blisters are more commonly known these days as Cold Sores or Oral Herpes (herpes simplex virus which is a sexually transmitted disease). The most common location on the body for fever blisters is on the lips or around the mouth area.
Fever blisters are highly contagious and when in the blistering state, be sure to stay well away from anyone that doesn’t have it or does have it. And it is also a good idea not to share any eating utensils or food while you or the person has a outbreak.
Since there is currently no known cure for fever blisters the best prevention is abstinence while an outbreak is occurring. A outbreak can last from 2 to 12 days but it can be controlled.
What are the symptoms?
Some experience a tingling sensation around the mouth area. Some people experience an itching where the blister is going to appear. This is the time to react and take action. Cleaning the area and preparing it can often reduce the cold sore in its blistering stage.
What can you do?
Firstly do not scratch the blister, you can use a hot face cloth and soap to clean the area but be sure not to leave the cloth laying around. Throw it directly into the washer. Afterward you should apply some petroleum jelly or lip balm to stop the spread of the blister. Make sure it is not a stick lip balm as you will have to throw it out. Because this can keep re-infecting you.
Some common cold sore home remedies that have been used are using salt pressed on to the affected area to burn the blister. But all that does really is dries out the blister and can cause cracking plus it causes a lot of pain.
Placing a tea bag on the area, leaving it there for several minutes in hopes of having it heal the blister. You have to have the tea bag steaming hot for it to work. So to endure that much extreme heat for several minutes to stop the further outbreak could be too much for you. Proceed with caution!
Using witch hazel on a cotton swab, this stings a bit but has some healing qualities. This is the same as using benzyl alcohol to clean and clear the blister. The only problem would be finding witch hazel as it is not commonly found in most pharmacies.
Over the counter medications such as Abreva for cold sores have some results but also can have some side effects. Since every person is different you should seek advice from your doctor!