It’s a common viral infection but getting a cold sore can still feel like the end of the world. These pesky sores, also known as fever blisters, are crusty, noticeable and embarrassing. Ultimately, anyone who has ever suffered from this problem wants the same thing: To get rid of the cold sore as quickly as possible and to prevent it from ever happening again. Thankfully, there are many ways to do just that. Read on to find out the best ways to treat cold sores.

1. Know the symptoms and causes. Caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), cold sores can are highly contagious (even when no sore is present) and affect the mouth and genitals. Cold sores are most contagious when the blisters are oozing fluid. Some people have the virus and never develop symptoms. Others have outbreaks, which can be triggered by many things, including stress, fatigue, sunlight and changes in the hormonal or immune systems. Kissing, sharing eating utensils and using another person’s razor can spread the virus. Unfortunately, there is no cure for cold sores or the HSV-1 virus, but antiviral medications can help heal the problem quickly and prevent repeated future outbreaks.

   Not sure if you have a cold sore? The symptoms tend to be obvious and most doctors will be able to diagnose a cold sore on sight. One thing to look out for is tingling or itching near the mouth. These sensations are typically followed by a hard, painful spot. The spot then develops into fluid-filled blisters, sometimes in a small cluster. These blisters will eventually burst, opening and oozing before the fluid crusts over the spot. Some people experience other symptoms during an outbreak, including fever, headaches and swollen lymph nodes. Cold sores can last for several days, taking anywhere from two to four weeks to heal completely.

2. Know how to prevent it. While those who suffer from frequent outbreaks should see a doctor who can prescribe an antiviral medication to take on a regular basis, there are other precautions that can be taken to limit the spread of the virus to other parts of the body and to other people. For people who get cold sores when exposed to sunlight, sunscreen can help. Simply apply it to the area where the cold sore normally appears. Avoiding skin-to-skin contact with others when blisters are present can limit transmission. Be sure to wash your hands frequently and also minimize sharing lip balm, towels, cutlery and other similar items.
3. Know how to treat it. Antiviral medications can speed up the cold sore healing process. The Mayo Clinic recommends the following options:

• Acyclovir (Xerese, Zovirax)
• Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
• Famciclovir (Famvir)
• Penciclovir (Denavir)

Treatments usually come in pill or cream form (although severe cold sores can be treated by antiviral injections), but the pills tend to be the more effective option. The Mayo Clinic also lists some at-home remedies that may help shorten the healing time. The over-the-counter cold sore ointment docosanol (Abreva), for example, can help with this. Other recommendations include using a cool compress on the area, applying pain relieving creams and using lip balms and facial creams to moisturize the area.

There are also alternative medicine remedies. The Mayo Clinic says study results have been mixed on the effectiveness of these treatments, but it does include the following list:

• Lysine. An amino acid, lysine is available as an oral supplement and as a cream.
• Propolis. Also known as synthetic beeswax, this is available as a 3 percent ointment. When applied early and often, it may shorten the duration of the breakout.
• Rhubarb and sage. A cream combining rhubarb and sage may be about as effective as acyclovir (Zovirax) cream.
• Stress reduction. If your cold sores are triggered by stress, you might want to try relaxation techniques, such as deep-breathing exercises and meditation.

While cold sores won’t necessarily cause gum pain or other oral problems, some people do experience these side effects. It’s worth seeing your dentist if you are having these issues. Also keep in mind that regular dental checkups and cleanings are the best way to supplement good dental habits. For the latest and best information about your specific needs, talk to your dentist. A professional can help you determine what procedures to schedule and how to maintain good oral health outside the office.