How Long Do Cold Sores Last?
A lot of folks find themselves wondering how long they will have to endure their unsightly and painful cold sore. The answer to this question can vary depending on a number of different factors. The immunity of the body and the treatments that are used on the cold sore can greatly effect the length of time that a cold sore sticks around.
How Long Do Cold Sores Last With Treatment?
A cold sore can last up to eight to fourteen days with and without treatment. The time you take in treating and caring for your cold sore could cut down on the time that you have to bear the unattractive cold sore. Some treatment options speed up the time a cold sore lasts more quickly than others. If you have been treating you cold sore and it has not healed or begun to heal in two weeks, you should make an appointment to see your doctor right away.
Using Abreva, Valtrex & Zovirax
Abreva is an over the counter medication that can significantly reduce the lifespan of a cold sore. It is the only over the counter cold sore medication that is FDA approved to reduce the time a cold sore hangs around. Using Abreva can help cut down your healing time up to four days. While this may not seem like a lot to most folks, those who are suffering from a cold sore, it can feel like a lifetime.
A cold sore treated with Valtrex will heal much faster than one that is not. Valtrex only needs to be taken twice a day and can even reduce the amount of cold sores that you have. Valtrex is a prescription medication that comes in the form of a pill. It is easy to swallow.
Zovirax is an over the counter ointment treatment for cold sores than can help a cold sore disappear within ten to twelve days. It can be used as soon as you feel the tingling or burning sensation that is often associated with getting a cold sore. Zovirax should be used about five times a day for the best results possible. It does not matter what stage your cold sore is in Zovirax can still be effective in relieving your symptoms and healing the cold sore more quickly.
How Long Do Cold Sores Last in the Mouth?
Cold sores that are in the mouth tend to stick around a little bit longer than a cold sore that is located on the lip. Cold sores in the mouth are often susceptible to infection due to the fact that the mouth is one of the number one places for germs. You should be sure to use antiseptic mouth wash on a regular basis to keep your mouth a germ free place so that your cold sore can heal more quickly. Cold sores in the mouth should clear up within fourteen days.