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Cold sores

Tingling lips? Time for soothing.


Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are small, painful blisters caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). They typically appear on the lips, around the mouth, and sometimes on the face or inside the mouth. Cold sores are highly contagious and can be triggered by factors such as stress, sun exposure, fever, and changes in the immune system. While there is no cure for HSV, the symptoms of cold sores can be managed with antiviral medications, pain relief, and topical treatments to reduce discomfort and speed up healing. 


Mahalo offers a convenient way to consult with healthcare providers about cold sores. Through virtual appointments, you can discuss your symptoms, receive a diagnosis, and explore treatment options, including prescriptions for antiviral medications, to manage outbreaks and reduce the frequency of future occurrences, all from the privacy and convenience of your home.


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Precautions


  • Apply a cold compress to the sore to reduce swelling and discomfort. You can use a clean, damp cloth cooled with ice or cold water for this purpose.
  • Use over-the-counter (OTC) creams or ointments that contain docosanol or other antiviral ingredients. These can help reduce the duration of an outbreak if applied as soon as symptoms appear.
  • Avoid acidic or spicy foods that can irritate the sore. Instead, opt for soft, bland foods to minimize discomfort while eating.
 

Common Medications


  • Antivirals such as Acyclovir (Zovirax), Valacyclovir, (Valtrex), or Famciclovir (Famvir)
  • Topical antiviral creams such as Acyclovir cream (Zovirax cream), Penciclovir cream (Denavir), or Docosanol cream (Abreva)


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