Prevention and Treatment of Cold Sores and Fever Blisters

Cold sores and fever blisters are caused by the HSV-1 virus. Most people will be exposed at some time to this virus, which is passed through saliva and close contact. While total prevention of exposure is probably not possible, avoiding close contact with people, especially if they show symptoms of cold sores or fever blisters, may help prevent exposure. There are vaccines that prevent HSV-1 infection, but these seem to have effect only when given prior to the first exposure to the virus, and as most people are unaware of infection until they have the sores, the efficacy of the vaccine is limited.

When a person is exposed, the initial outbreak is usually the worst. Symptoms can last for two weeks, and can often be very painful, especially if located inside the mouth. However, subsequent outbreaks, triggered by illness or stress, are usually not as painful. If you have an outbreak, our Torrance dentist can examine your mouth and determine if the sores are caused by HSV-1.

Because cold sores and fever blisters are caused by a virus, antibiotics will not affect them. There are antivirals available to help treat the sores topically or when taken in pill form, but these have mixed effects, often depending on when treatment is started. If you already know that you will be exposed to sun, for example, and sunlight seems to trigger an outbreak, a topical antiviral or sunscreen applied prior to exposure may limit the attack.

Our Torrance cosmetic dentist can prescribe medications that will limit or reduce the severity of an attack. Several topical creams are available that will reduce pain and hasten healing.

Source: Dentist Torrance

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