Treatment FAQ

cold sores treatment cure how many years away

by Rollin Auer Published 3 years ago Updated 2 years ago
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It takes 1–2 weeks for cold sores to heal completely. However, according to Harvard Health Publishing, the virus that causes cold sores remains in the person's body throughout their life. HSV may lie dormant for years and cause no symptoms. In some people, the virus will reactivate and cause cold sores.

Medication

Self-care

Nutrition

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Do cold sores stay in your body forever?

Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex. Once you have the virus, it stays in your skin for the rest of your life.

Why do cold sores come back after years?

ANSWER: Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Once you're exposed to the virus, which is typically passed from skin-to-skin contact, it's present in your body for life. After the initial infection, the virus will travel to your nerves, where it remains dormant but may awaken periodically.

What vitamins prevent cold sores?

Vitamin C plus flavonoids may help speed cold sore healing. Vitamin C has been shown to inactivate herpes viruses in the test tube. In one study, people with herpes infections received either a placebo or 200 mg of vitamin C plus 200 mg of flavonoids, each taken three to five times per day.

How do I not get cold sores again?

Taking antiviral medications can help prevent outbreaks of cold sores. Lysine supplements can also help prevent future cold sores from developing. A person should speak to a doctor or pharmacist about dosage and use. Lysine supplements are available in health food stores, pharmacies, and online.

Diagnosis

Treatment

Lifestyle and Home Remedies

Alternative Medicine

Medically reviewed by
Dr. Aakash Gupta
Your provider will work with you to develop a care plan that may include one or more of these treatment options.
Cold sores generally resolve within few weeks. Antiviral drugs may be prescribed for faster healing.
Medication

Antivirals: Either in the form of oral pills or creams to be applied on the sores; drugs in injection forms are recommended in severe cases.

Acyclovir . Valacyclovir . Famciclovir


Analgesics: To relieve pain.

Ibuprofen . Acetaminophen

Self-care

Always talk to your provider before starting anything.

  • Avoid touching, rubbing, or scratching the blisters or sores.
  • Do not kiss others.
  • Take or apply the medications as prescribed.
  • Use moisturizing creams, lip balms or creams to prevent lips from drying.
  • Apply cold compresses to reduce redness and crusting.

Nutrition

Foods to eat:

  • Foods rich in Vitamin C like kiwis, broccoli, berries, oranges and tomatoes
  • Foods rich in Vitamin E like almonds, spinach and sweet potato
  • Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids like canola oil, cod liver oil, flaxseed oil and mustard oil

Food to avoid:

  • Dried fruits like dried apricot
  • Alcoholic drinks like wine or beer
  • Frozen or prepared shrimp
  • Food with high amount of sulphites and preservatives like pickles
  • Food that is allergic to your body

Specialist to consult

Dermatologist
Specializes in the study of the skin and its disorders.
What are the causes?
What are some prevention tips?
How is this diagnosed?

Preparing For Your Appointment

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