Treating fever blisters is not an easy task to deal with, and it gets even harder considering how the herpes simplex virus tend to stay once they enter the body.

Cold sores or fever blisters are mainly a symptom of oral herpes (herpes labialis) which in turn, is caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1). Unfortunately, there seems to be no scientifically proven cure for treating oral herpes or completely eradicating the herpes simplex virus, but there are medications and remedies that have been widely used for treating fever blisters and managing its troublesome symptoms.

The remedies range from over-the-counter/doctor-prescribed medication drugs to natural home remedies which can both be equally effective for the treatment of fever blisters. Here are some of the most widely sought treatment options:

Over-the-Counter Medications

Most doctor-prescribed cold sore treatment medications are only effective in relieving the pain and symptoms of fever blisters which include itching, burning sensation and pain.

Doctor-Prescribed Drugs

Medicines that contain docosanol have been seen to have inhibitory effects on the herpes virus so that are usually prescribed by doctors to limit the severity of the viral infection. Other drugs such as antibiotics only work by providing a sterile environment to inhibit the development of more fever blisters, help promote healing and minimize further infections.

Home Remedies for Treatment of Cold Sores

There are many home remedies that people have discovered to be effective in treating cold sores or shortening their duration.

Applying Ice. Cold compress or ice application during the initial stages of a fever blister onset will lower the temperature of the affected area. This can help reduce the metabolic rate of tissues in the area and stifle the growth of the cold sore. Applying ice also helps in numbing the area to lessen the pain and itching.

Applying Tea Bags. Applying tea bags directly on the cold sore have been seen to minimize its severity and duration. The tannic acid in tea is presupposed to have antiviral properties.

Moisturizers and Lip Protectors. Applying protective lip balms and petroleum jelly work by softening the scabs and moisturizing the cold sore area so that the fever blister will not crack or bleed. Lip balms which contain sun screen protection can also prevent sunlight-induced cold sore outbreaks.

Nutritional Supplements. Taking lysine as part of the daily dietary supplement has been suggested to reduce the likeliness of fever blister outbreaks.

Natural Treatment for Cold Sores

Equally popular to home remedies are natural herbal treatment options. The herbal antiseptics sage, tea tree oil and aloe Vera have been widely used for herbal treatment of cold sores. These herbs, however, must be used with proper caution and care to achieve the desired results.

There are various treatment options that are widely available and accessible for treating fever blisters, but choosing the one that will surely work for you may require some effort and trial application on your part. Remember, though, that cold sores are highly delicate; it is best to go for effective, safe and risk-free methods.