What Is a Fever Blister?
10. Treatment
Cold sores are not usually a serious condition. In most cases, the symptoms will clear up without medication within 4 weeks or so. Medication is available that can help to accelerate the healing process, although these tend to be used sparingly to help prevent the virus from evolving a resistance to treatment.
When medication is prescribed, it tends to be in the form of lotions or pills, and the pills tend to be the most effective. In particularly severe cases, stronger antiviral medications may be administered intravenously. Other medications like lip balms can help to prevent cracking, while a cold compress can help to reduce swelling and pain.
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