How To Treat Cold Sores

Cold Compress For Pain

If you are suffering from a particularly painful or irritating cold sore, in addition to using a topical medication, use a cold compress for pain. A common way to alleviate symptoms is to soak a sterile cloth in ice water and to gently dab the cold sore with the wet compress for twenty-minute intervals throughout the day. Do not directly apply ice to the cold sore as this could irritate the skin.

Some individuals even use cold tea bags to treat cold sores, which can help to further numb the area and prevent swelling. Another way to increase the soothing effects of a cold compress is to take an over-the-counter pain medication like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce pain associated with inflammation and swelling.

Keep going to learn about yet another way to protect against cold sores.