(HealthDayNews) -- Cold sores or fever blisters are more than unsightly -- they are often painful. They usually clear up in seven to 10 days, but until then there are steps you can take to feel better.
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology offers these tips:
- Apply ice for 5-10 minutes to reduce the pain.
- Apply topical agents such as Herpecin-L or Camphophenique.
- Use moisturizers like Blistex to hasten healing.
- Take a pain reliever.
- Be cautious. Cold sores may be due to herpes simplex virus and may be contagious.
If the pain prevents you from eating or drinking, or if you have severe or frequently recurring sores, see your doctor.
