Check your temperature regularly to monitor your fever. Talk to your doctor if it persists for more than a few days or if your temperature continues to rise. [3] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Additional methods you can take to fight your fever include lukewarm baths, cold compresses on the inner thighs, feet, arms, and neck, warm tea, popsicles, and lots of sleep. Children should not take aspirin due to the risk of developing Reye’s syndrome. [4] X Research source
Creams containing lidocaine, acyclovir, and benzocaine can provide additional pain relief.
If you have a compromised immune system or an outbreak that lasts longer than 2 weeks, your doctor may prescribe additional medication. Some outbreaks can be pretty serious and need additional medical care to be treated. [8] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Herpes infections in the eyes can be severe. If your infection spreads to your eyes, see your doctor immediately to get the care you need. [9] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source People with already weakened immune systems are at particular risk of long-term complications from a herpes outbreak. [10] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source These complications include herpes meningoencephalitis, a condition in which the herpes virus spreads to the brain. [11] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source
Wash your hands frequently and don’t touch the sore to prevent spread. [13] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Don’t touch your eyes or genitals after touching the sore. This could spread the virus to other parts of your body.
You should also make sure you practice safe oral sex to avoid spreading the virus to your genitals. Use a dental dam[15] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source or condom to be safe. [16] X Trustworthy Source Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Main public health institute for the US, run by the Dept. of Health and Human Services Go to source Wash towels and linens after each use to avoid spreading the infection.
If you use a rag, remember to wash it as soon as you’re done. Use a new, clean rag each time you ice the cold sore.
Lip balm can also work to moisturize your cold sore. Do not share lip balm if you have herpes simplex.
You can also try finding the cream at your local health food store!
Only take lysine supplements when you’re experiencing an outbreak. Long-term use can cause side effects like kidney problems. Follow the dosage instructions on the bottle. Taking too much can result in diarrhea and stomach pains.
Talk to a therapist or counselor if stress gets in the way of your day-to-day life. [26] X Trustworthy Source Cleveland Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
