Is there a cure for cold sores?

What are cold sores?

Cold sores are little blisters that can appear on your lips or around your mouth. They are caused by a virus.

Here is how you can tell if you have a cold sore:

• You might see small blisters.
• Your lip might tingle, burn, or itch before the sore appears.

Here are some things you can do if you have a cold sore:

• Use a cold sore cream from the pharmacy.
• Try not to touch the sore. If you do, wash your hands.

You can ask an adult for help if you're not sure what to do.

Can cold sores be fixed?

How can I make cold sores better?

Cold sores are small blisters that can hurt. Here is how you can help them heal:

• Use a special cream from the pharmacy. Ask an adult to help you.
• Don't touch the cold sore. It can spread to other parts of your body.
• Wash your hands often.
• Put a soft cloth with cold water on the sore to feel better.
• Tell a grown-up if it doesn't get better.

Some tools that might help you are:

• Pictures of what you need to do.
• Videos that show you how to use the cream.

How can I stop cold sores from coming back?

What makes cold sores happen?

Can you catch cold sores from someone?

How long do cold sores last?

Cold sores are like little sores on your mouth. They usually last for about 1 to 2 weeks.

To help with cold sores, you can:

• Use special cold sore creams.
• Try ice to make it feel better.
• Ask a grown-up for medicine from a doctor if it's bad.

Remember to wash your hands often to stop it from spreading!

Can cold sores move to other parts of the body?

Do I need to visit a doctor for cold sores?

Cold sores are small, painful spots on your lips or around your mouth. They are caused by a virus.

Here’s when you might need to see a doctor:

• If the cold sore is very painful.
• If it does not get better in 2 weeks.
• If you get cold sores often.
• If the sore is near your eyes.

Some things that might help:

• Use a cold sore cream from the pharmacy.
• Put a cold, damp cloth on the sore.
• Avoid touching the sore, so it doesn't spread.

If you find reading hard, here are some things that might help:

• Ask a friend or family member to read it with you.
• Use audiobooks or apps that read text out loud.
• Highlight words you don’t understand and ask for help.

Can you use things from nature to help cold sores?

Do cold sores mean you might be sick with something else?

How can I make cold sores hurt less?

If you have a cold sore, it might hurt or feel itchy. Here are some simple tips to help you feel better:

• Keep it clean: Wash the sore gently with water and mild soap to keep it clean.
• Use a cold cloth: Place a cool, wet cloth on the sore for a few minutes. It can help reduce pain and swelling.
• Don’t touch: Try not to touch or pick at the sore as it can make it worse.
• Lip balm: Use a lip balm to keep your lips from getting too dry.
• Avoid spicy food: Don't eat spicy or salty foods, as they can make the sore hurt more.

You can also ask an adult to help you. They can talk to a drugstore pharmacist or doctor to recommend a cream or medicine. Remember, cold sores usually go away on their own after a little while.

Are cold sores and canker sores different?

Yes, they are different.

• Cold sores usually form around the lips. They are caused by a virus.
• Canker sores happen inside the mouth. They are not caused by a virus.

To learn more and get extra help, you can:

• Use picture books.
• Watch simple videos about cold sores and canker sores.
• Ask a trusted adult for help.

Can children have cold sores?

Yes, children can get cold sores. Cold sores are small blisters that can show up on the lips or around the mouth.

Here is how to help:

• Tell children not to touch the sore.
• Make sure they wash their hands a lot.
• Use a clean cloth or tissue to clean the sore.
• If it hurts, tell an adult. They might give you special cream.

Remember, cold sores can spread, so it's important to keep them clean and not touch them.

What should I stay away from when I have a cold sore?

A cold sore is a small blister on your lip or around your mouth. It can be itchy or sore.

Here are some things to stay away from when you have a cold sore:

• Do not touch the cold sore. It can spread germs.
• Stay away from kissing. You could spread the cold sore to others.
• Do not share things like cups, towels, or lipstick. These can carry germs.
• Stay away from foods that might hurt your mouth, like spicy or acidic foods (like oranges).

Try these helpful tips:

• Put ice or a cold cloth on the sore to help with pain.
• Use lip balm to keep your lips soft.
• Try to rest so your body can heal.
• Wash your hands often to stay clean.

These ideas can help you feel better and keep others safe.

Does being worried make cold sores show up?

Can cold sores show up inside the mouth?

When can you spread cold sores the most?

Can I give the virus to someone if I don't have any cold sores?

Yes, you can still pass the virus to others even if you don't see any cold sores on your mouth.

You can use pictures or apps to help understand and remember this information.

What if I touch a cold sore by mistake?

If you touch a cold sore by accident, here is what you can do:

• Wash your hands with soap and water right away.
• Try not to touch your face or other people.
• Use a tissue to cover the cold sore.
• If you have any questions, ask an adult for help.