Cold sores are extremely painful blisters that are filled with fluid that show up around your lips and mouth. They are caused by the herpes complex virus, in many cases from kissing or from sharing a drink. They are extremely painful to have and there is even cold sore medicine for kids as anyone can get them. Though they typically go away on their own, there are ways, including cold sore medicine treatment, to speed up the healing process and ease the pain:

1. Ice compress
An ice compress can reduce the inflammation that is associated with the cold sore. It can also help to alleviate the pain that comes from scabbing after the blister breaks. This may even lead to a shorter healing time if you use the compress at least a couple of times a day. If you are bothered by the ice, try a cloth that is damp with cold water.

2. Abreva cream
Abreva cream should be applied as soon as you notice that you may have a cold sore. Results when using this cream have found that many patients see cold sore relief in as little as 3 days. Some people have even shared that if they apply the Abreva super early, the cold sore is stopped in its tracks and is gone within a few hours.

3. Petroleum jelly
Petroleum jelly may not heal your cold sore as much as Abreva, but you can still apply it directly to the cold sore to get some relief. It keeps your skin protected against bacteria and irritants which may get into the sore and make it worse. This keeps the healing process going smoothly so that the scabs do not break and so that that the pain is not as severe.

4. Tea tree oil
Tea tree oil, or melaleuca alternifolia oil, can be so effective in the healing of cold sores. This oil doubles as a natural antiviral and antiinflammatory agent, which is so important with cold sores. By using a gel version directly on the cold sore, you are applying an antiviral medication that can get rid of the herpes virus which may have caused the sore to show up.

5. Zinc
Zinc is extremely beneficial for cold sores, and it is available as a topical oxide cream in a variety of brands. Traditionally, this formula has the ability to heal your cold sores faster so that they disappear sooner. You also can have pain reduction, less tingling sensations, and fewer sensations of itchiness when you apply some form of this cream on a regular basis with a cold sore.

6. Cortisone topical ointment
There are a variety of types of cortisone topical ointment available to help relieve you of the pain that comes with a cold sore. It is important to note that cortisone does not heal the cold sore, however, it does relieve many of the symptoms. Hydrocortisone, for instance, can help lessen the pain and burning that are associated with the cold sore.

A cold sore is one of the most annoying things that you can get. It is important to take necessary steps to treat your cold sore to relieve the pain and to heal it as fast as possible.