Other Cold Sore Home Remedies
If you have a cold sore, its important to treat it promptly. This will help stop it from spreading to other parts of your body, and to other people. The fastest way to do this may be by seeing a doctor, such as a dermatologist.
If you have a healthy immune system and dont have atopic dermatitis, consider giving these other at-home remedies a try:
- the American Academy of Dermatology recommends using an over-the-counter cold sore medication with benzyl alcohol or docosanol
- eat foods high in lysine
- use organic, unprocessed coconut oil, both topically and orally
- apply diluted oregano oil directly to the cold sore
- apply witch hazel directly to the cold sore
- make a paste with the contents of licorice capsules and coconut oil, and apply it to the cold sore
Prevalence Of Herpes Simplex Labialis
Herpes simplex labialis is not a reportable disease, so exact numbers of persons affected are not available. However, the incidence is thought to be 1.6 per thousand people annually, and the prevalence is estimated to be 2.5 patients per thousand, up to as many as 20% to 40% of adults.1,2 Once it is contracted, the virus cannot be eliminated, so the percentage of those carrying it rises as the average age of the group being sampled increases. The National Institutes of Health states that the majority of residents of the United States are infected with the virus by the age of 20 years.3
What Are Some Side Effects That I Need To Call My Doctor About Right Away
WARNING/CAUTION: Even though it may be rare, some people may have very bad and sometimes deadly side effects when taking a drug. Tell your doctor or get medical help right away if you have any of the following signs or symptoms that may be related to a very bad side effect:
- Signs of an allergic reaction, like rash hives itching red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever wheezing tightness in the chest or throat trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking unusual hoarseness or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Read Also: What To Do If Partner Has Herpes
Episodic Therapy For Recurrences
For a recurrent episode, treatment takes 1 to 5 days, depending on the type of medication and dosage. You should begin the medication as soon as you notice any signs or symptoms of herpes, preferably during the prodrome stage that precedes the outbreak of lesions.
In order for episodic therapy to be effective, it must be taken no later than 1 day after a lesion appears. If taken during prodrome, episodic therapy may help prevent an outbreak from occurring or reduce its severity. If taken at the first sign of a lesion, it can help speed healing.
What Are Some Other Side Effects Of Campho
All drugs may cause side effects. However, many people have no side effects or only have minor side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away.
These are not all of the side effects that may occur. If you have questions about side effects, call your doctor. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You may also report side effects at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
You May Like: Can You Use Vagisil For Herpes
Nonprescription Products For Hsv
The patient who wishes to self-treat HSV-1 has several options.5 The pharmacist can recommend protectants to keep the area moist. These include petrolatum, zinc oxide, allantoin, calamine, and cocoa butter. Some products also contain external analgesics/local anesthetics to decrease the discomfort, such as benzocaine, benzyl alcohol, camphor, dyclonine, menthol, phenol, or pramoxine. Products containing these two groups of ingredients are safe and effective for patients down to the age of 2 years.5 One such product is Blistex Medicated Lip Ointment, which promises to relieve cold sores.7 It contains phenol, allantoin, camphor, and menthol. Another is Campho-Phenique Cold Sore Treatment, containing camphor and phenol.8 These interventions provide some palliative relief, but they are unable to reduce the time to healing.9
Docosanol 10% is a radically different nonprescription cold sore therapy, available as the trade-named product Abreva. Docosanol, a fatty alcohol, acts through a mechanism that is unique among all prescription and OTC products currently avail-able: inhibition of viral fusion.2,8,10 This novel mechanism does not lead to emergence of resistant HSV-1.2 Patients are best served by a product that can shorten the duration of discomfort and minimize the disfigurement.11 Research has confirmed that docosanol can achieve these goals patients who apply it within 12 hours of onset of symptoms will experience a reduced time to healing compared to controls.9,12
Herpes Pregnancy And Newborn Infants
Herpes can pose serious risks for a pregnant woman and her baby. The risk is greatest for mothers with a first-time infection because the virus can be transmitted to the infant during childbirth. Guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend using specific diagnostic tests for women in labor to determine the risk of transmission. Babies born to mothers infected with genital herpes are often treated with the antiviral drug acyclovir, which can help suppress the virus.
You May Like: How To Test For Herpes Simplex 2
Recurrence Course Triggers And Timing
Course of Recurrence
Most cases of herpes simplex recur. The site on the body and the type of virus influence how often it comes back. Recurrences of genital herpes are more likely with HSV-2 infection than with HSV-1 infection.
The virus usually takes the following course:
- Prodrome. The outbreak of infection is often preceded by a prodrome, an early group of symptoms that may include itchy skin, pain, or an abnormal tingling sensation at the site of infection. Headache, enlarged lymph glands, and flu-like symptoms may occur. The prodrome, which may last from 2 hours to 2 days, stops when the blisters develop. About 25% of the time, recurrence does not go beyond the prodrome stage.
- Outbreak. Recurrent outbreaks feature most of the same symptoms at the same sites as the primary attack, but they tend to be milder and briefer. After blisters erupt, they typically heal in 6 to 10 days. Occasionally, the symptoms may not resemble those of the primary episode, but appear as fissures and scrapes in the skin or as general inflammation around the affected area.
Triggers of Recurrence
Herpes outbreaks can be triggered by different factors. They include sunlight, wind, fever, physical injury, surgery, menstruation, suppression of the immune system, and emotional stress. Oral herpes can be triggered within about 3 days of intense dental work, particularly root canal or tooth extraction.
Timing of Recurrences
Prescription Medicines For Cold Sores
If you get recurring cold sore outbreaks, or youre going through a particularly serious cold sore outbreak, its generally best to talk to your doctor about switching from an over-the-counter cold sore treatment to a prescription antiviral medicine.
Oral antiviral drugs work by inhibiting the HSV-1 virus replicating within the body. Once you start taking the medication, the virus is blocked from spreading within your cells. This speeds up recovery and makes it easier for your immune system to fight back against the virus.
There are three prescription antiviral medications used to treat herpes, all of which work using a similar mechanism of action. These drugs are valacyclovir, acyclovir and famciclovir.
You May Like: Is Apple Cider Vinegar Good For Herpes
Can You Use Campho Phenique Inside Your Mouth
Can I take advantage of CamphoPhenique inside my mouthCamphoPheniqueuse
Consequently, is it protected to place campho Phenique in your mouth?
Dont take CamphoPhenique by mouth. Use on your pores and skin solely. Preserve out of your mouth, nostril, and eyes . Wash your arms earlier than and after use.
Additionally, can you utilize campho Phenique for toothache? Apply an over-the-counter oral treatment to the affected space with a clear Q-tip similar to CamphoPhenique, Blistex, or Orabase. Please notice that dental ache attributable to a tooth will unlikely subside or get higher by itself.
Then, is campho Phenique toxic?
Toxic IngredientCamphoPhenique comprises each camphor and phenol. For info on merchandise containing camphor alone, see camphor overdose.
Can I take advantage of Vaseline inside my mouth?
Apply petroleum jelly, similar to Vaseline, to ease the cracking and dryness of a lip sore. Use a lip protector, similar to Blistex or Campho-Phenique, to ease the ache. Do not share your lip protector with others, as a result of chilly sores are contagious.
Treatment Of An Initial Outbreak
The first outbreak of genital herpes is usually much worse than recurrent outbreaks. Symptoms tend to be more severe and to last longer. Your provider will prescribe one of the three antiviral medications, which you will take for 7 to 10 days. If your symptoms persist, treatment may be extended. An acyclovir ointment may also be prescribed for topical treatment of initial genital herpes.
Read Also: How Do You Know You Have Herpes
What Is Campho Phenique Used For
UsesCamphoPheniqueusedusedused
In this manner, can you use campho Phenique in your mouth?
Campho–Phenique is for external use only.
Secondly, can you use too much campho Phenique? Campho–Phenique overdose occurs when someone applies more than the normal or recommended amount of this medicine or takes it by mouth. This can be by accident or on purpose. Inhaling a large amount of Campho–Phenique fumes may also cause symptoms.
Similarly, what is campho Phenique made of?
I am not sure what you mean by Campho–Phenique is still available at my drugstore in its pure form.Campho–Phenique is a prepared product. The active ingredients are camphor and phenol. Inactive ingredients include colloidal silicon dioxide, eucalyptus, glycerin and light mineral oil.
Does campho Phenique help heal cold sores?
Campho–Phenique®Cold Sore Treatment dries out the cold sore without causing cracking. Used in the early stage of a cold sore, before it scabs over from popping, Campho–Phenique’s maximum strength formula relieves pain and itching on contact.
How Do You Eliminate A Chilly Sore In 24 Hours
Life-style and residential treatments
Don’t Miss: Will Herpes Clear Up On Its Own
Can I Use Abreva On Genital Herpes
- Asked
- 30 Oct 2011 by Rachel_Marie22
Official Answer
Abreva is indicated for the treatment of cold sores around the mouth caused by Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1. Abreva is not to be used on genital herpes which is most commonly caused by Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2
There is no medication to cure your body of the genital herpes virus. Treatment is aimed at easing symptoms, reducing the frequency of recurrences and reducing transmission.
Symptoms can be improved by:
salt bathsice packs to the affected areapain-relieving medication such as acetaminophenantiviral medication such as acyclovir, famciclovir and valacyclovir. These can reduce the severity of an episode if taken early enough .
Topical antivirals like Abreva usually used for cold sores on the lips or face are not appropriate for use on the genitals.
For more information see:
+0Sapphyreopal5
If you have HSV-1 genitally, I don’t see why not. Of course as with anything you put on the skin, test it somewhere else beforehand. For those who are saying no you can’t because HSV-2 causes genital herpes and HSV-1 causes cold sores, they are not 100% correct . While most cases of oral herpes is HSV-1, it’s possible for them to be caused by HSV-2. There are also more cases of HSV-1 being found in the genital region, possibly due to the decreased number of people having HSV-1 orally say in childhood. HSV is NOT a site-specific virus .
+0dixie12488CAMPOSPAULAK
Apple Cider Vinegar For Cold Sore Side Effects And Precautions
Even though it has alkaline properties, apple cider vinegar is an acid. It should never be used full strength on skin, especially on open sores, or in sensitive areas like around the eyes, mouth, or lips. It can cause serious burns, stinging, and irritation. It can also dry out skin, causing discomfort.
You May Like: Can Herpes Break Out Anywhere On The Body
Manifestations Of Herpes Simplex Labialis
Herpes simplex labialis outbreaks generally proceed in several predictable stages.5 For a large number of patients, the first stage is the prodrome. In this stage, the patient experiences a set of problems that precede the actual appearance of the lesion. Prodromal symptoms include any or all of the following: 1) pruritus of the lips or of the skin around the mouth 2) a tingling sensation near the lips and/or mouth area 3) burning near the lips or the perioral region 4) inflammation or erythema and 5) hypersensitivity of the area.3,5 The prodromal symptoms are often located at the exact spot where the lesion is shortly due to erupt.
The most common site for herpes simplex labialis is found in the namelabialis, referring to the lip. More specifically, the area is the mucocutaneous junction where intraoral tissues abut the upper and lower lips, an area also referred to as the vermilion border.3,6 Patients with recurrent herpes simplex labialis usually report that the prodrome and lesion occur at the same site from episode to episode. Occasionally, they break out on the skin surrounding the nose or cheek, and intraoral tissues such as the gingiva may be affected.3
The prodromal stage of herpes simplex labialis may also include general symptoms, such as sore throat, fever, swollen lymph nodes, malaise, and odynophagia .3,5 The prodrome can last for as long as 1 to 2 days.
What Are Some Things I Need To Know Or Do While I Take Campho
- Tell all of your health care providers that you take Campho-Phenique . This includes your doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists.
- Check with the doctor before putting Campho-Phenique on open or deep wounds, animal bites, or very bad burns or cuts.
- If you get Campho-Phenique in the eyes, flush right away with cool water and get medical help.
- This medicine may cause harm if swallowed. If Campho-Phenique is swallowed, call a doctor or poison control center right away.
- Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant. You will need to talk about the benefits and risks of using Campho-Phenique while you are pregnant.
- Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding. You will need to talk about any risks to your baby.
You May Like: Can You Blood Test For Herpes
Transmission And Prevention Of Herpes Simplex Labialis
When pharmacists counsel patients with HSV-1 infection, it is helpful to explain how the infection was contracted. An explanation of the transmission process can help patients and their families avoid further spread. Patients must understand that HSV-1 is highly contagious. The greatest point of risk is when blisters appear, as blister exudate contains millions of viral particles. But there is a risk of transferring the virus to others during other stages, and those affected must take great care to guard others from the prodromal stage until full healing is clearly achieved.
Patients with an outbreak must avoid touching the lesions, since virus on the hands can transfer to towels, dishes, or any other item shared with others. They must ensure that others do not drink from a glass they have used. They must completely avoid kissing and oral/genital sexual activity, and they must always ensure that anything that touches their lips is disinfected or immediately discarded, including eating utensils. Sharing lip balms is absolutely prohibited. Parents can transfer the virus to their children during routine child care, as the virus may be on the hands.
Advising Patients About Cold Sores
W. Steven Pray, PhD, DPhBernhardt Professor, Nonprescription Products and DevicesCollege of Pharmacy
Watonga, Oklahoma
US Pharm
After 27 years with U.S. Pharmacist, Dr. Steve Pray is retiring from this column. Over the years, he has covered everything in the nonprescription market, from Rx-to-OTC switches to the emergence of behind-the-counter products to pain relievers, allergy medications, and beyond. His contributions will be greatly missed.
Pharmacists counsel patients about a host of oral conditions, such as xerostomia, sore mouth, teething, toothache, canker sores, and herpes simplex labialis. The latter condition, also known as fever blisters or cold sores, is particularly painful, and several nonprescription products may provide relief.
Read Also: Can You Get Herpes If You Wear Protection
How You Got Herpes
Close physical contact spreads herpes. You cant catch it through the air, like the cold virus. Most people pass oral herpes by sharing personal objects, such as toothbrushes, forks or razors, or by kissingeven a nonsexual greeting between friends or family.
Genital herpes transmits through sexual activity. A key fact: you can become infected even if your partner shows no symptoms.
Safe sex using barrier methods like condoms is the best prevention for anything that is passed through mucous membranes, Dr. Brayer says. But its really important to note that you cant tell where you got genital herpes, because it lies dormant. Its not like other venereal diseases where you can say, Oh, I didnt have it and now I have it, so I got it from you. You could have been exposed a long time agoso you cant really point fingers.
How Do You Buy The Best Campho Phenique Herpes Genital
- Is it worth buying an Campho Phenique Herpes Genital?
- What benefits are there with buying an Campho Phenique Herpes Genital?
- What factors deserve consideration when shopping for an effective Campho Phenique Herpes Genital?
- Why is it crucial to invest in any Campho Phenique Herpes Genital, much less the best one?
- Which Campho Phenique Herpes Genital are good in the current market?
- Where can you find information like this about Campho Phenique Herpes Genital?
buying guides for Campho Phenique Herpes Genital
You May Like: Can You Buy Herpes Medication Over The Counter