Fever blisters, also known as cold sores, are common, fluid-filled lesions that often appear on or around the lips. They are a widespread condition that can cause discomfort and self-consciousness. When one appears, a common question arises regarding the best course of action to manage it.
What Causes Fever Blisters
Fever blisters are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), a highly contagious virus transmitted through direct contact, such as kissing or sharing utensils. Most people contract HSV-1 during childhood, and the virus then lies dormant within nerve cells for life. While inactive, various triggers can reactivate it, leading to an outbreak.
Common triggers for these outbreaks include stress, exposure to sunlight or cold wind, fever from other illnesses, hormonal changes (such as during menstruation), and a weakened immune system. Fatigue and physical injury can also provoke a recurrence. Once reactivated, the virus travels along nerve pathways to the skin’s surface, resulting in the characteristic fluid-filled blisters.
Why Draining is Harmful
Attempting to drain or “pop” a fever blister is not recommended due to several potential negative consequences. The fluid inside these blisters is highly contagious, containing active herpes simplex virus particles. Physically rupturing the blister can release this viral fluid, leading to autoinoculation, which means spreading the virus to other parts of your own body, such as the eyes or genitals. This action also increases the risk of transmitting the virus to other individuals through direct contact.
Opening the blister creates a direct entry point for bacteria, significantly increasing the likelihood of a secondary bacterial infection. These bacterial infections can be more severe, painful, and prolong the healing process. Furthermore, the physical trauma from squeezing or pricking the delicate skin tissue can damage it, increasing the chances of permanent scarring. Interfering with the natural healing process by draining the blister can also delay its resolution, making the outbreak last longer than it would if left undisturbed.
Treatments and Self-Care
While there is no cure for the herpes simplex virus, various treatments and self-care measures can help manage symptoms and shorten the duration of a fever blister outbreak. Over-the-counter (OTC) topical creams are available, with active ingredients like docosanol and benzyl alcohol. Docosanol (Abreva) is most effective when applied at the first sign of tingling. Benzyl alcohol can provide temporary pain relief, act as an antiseptic, and help dry out the lesion.
Home remedies can also offer symptomatic relief; applying a cold compress can help reduce pain and swelling. Keeping the area clean and moisturized with petroleum jelly can prevent cracking and bleeding, which aids in healing and protects against secondary infections. For more frequent or severe outbreaks, a healthcare provider may prescribe oral antiviral medications, such as acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir. These prescription drugs are most effective when taken at the very first sign of an outbreak, potentially shortening its duration and severity.
Maintaining good hygiene is important during an outbreak to prevent spreading the virus; this includes frequent handwashing, especially after touching the blister, and avoiding sharing personal items like utensils or towels. It is advisable to consult a doctor if the cold sore does not begin to heal within 10 days, if it is very large or painful, if symptoms include a high fever or swollen glands, or if the outbreak spreads to the eyes. Individuals with a weakened immune system should also seek medical attention for fever blisters.
Preventing Future Outbreaks
Preventing future fever blister outbreaks involves identifying and managing personal triggers, along with proactive health measures. Specific factors, such as sun exposure, stress, or certain foods, can reactivate the virus. Using lip balm with SPF protection when outdoors can help prevent sun-induced outbreaks. Practicing stress management techniques like meditation or yoga, and ensuring adequate sleep, can support the immune system and potentially reduce recurrence frequency.
General health practices, including a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, also contribute to a strong immune system, which is better equipped to keep the virus dormant. For individuals experiencing very frequent or severe outbreaks, a healthcare professional might recommend daily antiviral medication as a suppressive therapy. Consistent hygiene practices, such as avoiding sharing personal items like razors, towels, or eating utensils, remain important to minimize the risk of viral transmission and potential self-inoculation, even when no active blisters are present.