What to use for a fever blister?

Home Remedies

- Apply a cold compress to the fever blister: Applying a cold compress can help reduce inflammation and relieve the discomfort caused by a fever blister. Use an ice pack covered in a cloth or use a cold, wet washcloth. Hold it against the fever blister for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times throughout the day.

- Use an over-the-counter (OTC) pain reliever: OTC pain relievers, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) or acetaminophen (Tylenol), can help relieve the pain and inflammation associated with a fever blister. Follow the dosing instructions on the medicine label.

- Apply an OTC antiviral cream: OTC antiviral creams, such as those containing docosanol or acyclovir, may be helpful in treating fever blisters. Apply the cream to the affected area as directed on the package insert.

- Try a natural remedy: Some natural remedies, such as aloe vera gel, tea tree oil, and lemon balm extract have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve the symptoms of fever blisters. Apply these natural remedies to the fever blisters several times throughout the day.

Prescription Treatments:

- Prescription antiviral medications: Prescription antiviral medications, such as valacyclovir (Valtrex) or famciclovir (Famvir) may be prescribed to treat recurrent or severe fever blisters. These medications work by slowing the replication of the herpes simplex virus (HSV), which causes fever blisters.

- Prescription pain relievers: If OTC pain relievers are not providing sufficient relief, your doctor may prescribe stronger prescription pain relievers to manage the pain associated with fever blisters.

Additional Tips

- Avoid touching or picking the fever blister: Touching or picking at the fever blister can worsen the infection and delay healing.

- Keep the area clean and dry: Always wash your hands before touching the fever blister and keep the affected area clean and dry to prevent the spread of infection.

- Get enough rest: Getting enough rest and sleep can help your immune system fight off the virus more effectively.

- If your fever blister persists for more than 10 days or if you have severe pain or new symptoms, see a doctor.