The most common fever blister treatment is to use topical antiviral ointment, directly applied to the sore. Fever blisters and cold sores are believed to be caused by the herpes simplex virus, for which there is no known cure. Antiseptic mouthwashes can help promote healing, but have no measurable effect on the virus itself.
There are several over-the-counter medications for fever blister treatment, but sometimes a higher dose prescription drug is necessary. Doctors typically prescribe antiviral drugs such as acyclovir to help promote faster healing. Acyclovir is believed to be especially effective for people who suffer from repeated outbreaks of fever blisters. Studies indicate that it can make a big difference in the duration and severity of the outbreak.
Some people prefer to take a holistic or herbal approach to fever blister treatment. Some natural remedies include olive leaf tincture and lysine. Lysine is a type of amino acid that may help repair damaged tissue. It is found in foods such as red meats and dairy products. Olive leaf tincture is made from the leaves from olive trees and is available at most health food stores.
Each year, millions of people suffer outbreaks of fever blisters and cold sores, yet science still has little understanding of the virus that causes them. Herpes simplex virus can lead to two different types of illnesses. Type 1 causes fever blisters, and type 2 typically causes similar skin eruptions but on the genital area instead of the mouth. Though both types come from the same virus, through mutation, they have become quite different.
People who have type 1 herpes simplex virus may be infected for many years before they ever experience a fever blister, and it is believed that most of these people were likely infected with the virus when they were children. The tendency toward fever blisters seems to run in families, and science is trying to discover whether there may be a genetic or hereditary factor. Finding a link between heredity and herpes simplex virus would be an important breakthrough toward discovering a cure.
Medical research has led to the development of several drugs that work to prevent outbreaks. Most of these drugs are not yet approved for use, but studies show they may be especially helpful for those seeking fever blister treatment on a recurrent basis. The drug therapy involves taking the medication on a regular daily basis, as a preventive measure. People interested in trying this type of drug therapy should consult their doctor, as this new fever blister treatment is sometimes available with supervised use.
