How to Treat Cold Sores?
Medical Treatment:
- Eat cool, soft foods and avoid salty or acidic foods
- Drink plenty of fluids
- If it hurts to brush your teeth, use an antiseptic mouthwash
- Wash your hands before and after applying the cream with soap and water
- Do not touch the cold sore
- If sunshine is the trigger, use sunblock lip balm (SPF 15 or above)
- Take painkillers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen
- Do not give aspirin to children under the age of 16
- Do not share anything with other people - like cold sore creams, cutlery or lipstick
- Do not rub cream into the cold sore
- Do not have oral sex until the cold sore is completely cured
- If your cold sores are very large, painful, or keep coming back, GP may prescribe antiviral tablets
- Newborn babies, pregnant women and people with a weakened immune system may be referred to hospital for treatment
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