How To Numb Herpes Sores

During harsh weather, stress, illness or hormonal imbalances, a painful, red bump can form around your mouth or on your lips. These bumps are commonly known as cold sores, herpes simplex virus type 1 and usually subside within 8 to 10 days after the initial stage of soreness or itching around the affected area. During the life cycle of the outbreak, you may experience soreness on or around the site while your body is busy fighting the virus. Painful symptoms can be lessened by using home remedies or medication.

Things You'll Need

• Cold compress
• Lidocaine topical cream
• Benzyl alcohol

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Instructions

• 1

  First it's important to clean the area. Keeping the area clean prevents harmful bacteria from getting into the sore. Before applying medication, it is advised to wash the sore with warm water. Avoid using soap as it can irritate the sore.

• 2

  Apply topical cream to the sore. Topical lidocaine or benzyl alcohol speeds up the healing process, and provides temporary relief by numbing the sore. Most medications require you apply the cream to the sore 4 to 5 times daily. These topical creams can be purchased without a prescription at most drugstores.

• 3

  Use heat or cold therapy. A warm heating pad or cold compress can reduce pain and numb the area, according to John W. Hill, author of "Natural Treatments for Genital Herpes, Cold Sores and Shingles." Soak a washcloth in warm water, wring the excess water, and rest it on the cold sore for 10 minutes or until it is no longer warm. Cold compresses should not be left on the skin for longer than 10 minutes as skin irritation can occur, according to Hill.

• 4

  Use an oral antiseptic. Ointments that contain camphorated phenol aid in relieving cold sore pain and itching by numbing the area. The medication also prevents infection when used daily. Clean the affected area, followed by applying the antiseptic ointment onto the cold sore 1 to 3 times daily. Discontinue use if the sore worsens or remains after 7 days of consistent use.

• 5

  Visit your doctor. Your doctor may prescribe pills or potent topical medication to numb your herpes sore and reduce the risk of future outbreaks.