How to Get Rid of a Cold Sore in 24 Hours

If you get a cold sore, it means you have the herpes virus. While there is no cure for herpes, there are various treatments available to treat cold sore outbreaks. If you have a cold sore that you need to get rid of quickly, you can employ certain treatments to do so. While there is no guarantee that you'll be able to completely get rid of the cold sore within 24 hours, you can at least improve its appearance and get on the road to recovery within that time period.

Things You'll Need

• Prescription medication Yogurt Topical treatments Lysine Zinc Ice Cloth Water Aloe vera gel

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Instructions

• 1

  See your doctor immediately. Your doctor can prescribe antiviral medication, which will help the cold sore to disappear more quickly. Such antiviral medication is most effective when taken at the first sign of a cold sore.

• 2

  Eat plain yogurt. Natural yogurts that contain acidophilus support the immune system and aid in the body's recovery process. You can also apply this yogurt directly to your cold sore to speed recovery.

• 3

  Use over-the-counter treatments. Topical treatments that contain docosanol help cold sores to heal more quickly. Apply the cream, balm or ointment at least five times within 24 hours to effectively get rid of the cold sore. You can apply the topical treatments more often for more expedient results.

• 4

  Take Lysine supplements. Lysine is a natural amino acid that aids in the mouth's recovery process. Take 1,000 mg of Lysine at the first sign of the cold sore. This will expedite the healing process.

• 5

  Apply zinc to your cold sore. Available in cream and ointment forms, topical zinc helps your body to heal from cold sores more quickly.

• 6

  Place a cold compress on your cold sore. Wrap ice in a soft cloth or soak a washcloth in frigid water and hold it on the cold sore for two to three minutes. Do this multiple times throughout the 24-hour time period. The coldness will draw heat out from the sore, reducing pain and swelling in the area.

• 7

  Rub aloe vera gel on the cold sore. This natural treatment can prevent the cold sore from fully developing. Opt for natural aloe vera gel, which is free from added fragrances and dyes.