How To Treat Cold Sores In Your Nose Remedies Prevention

Use a mirror to check the visible surfaces of your nasal cavity. You may not be able to see much, but even detecting a cold sore can help. Recognize symptoms of cold sores in your nose including tingling and itching, burning, feeling painful bumps, and oozing from small blisters. You may also have a fever or headache if you have cold sores. [5] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source See if there is an inflamed area either on the inside or outside of your nose that might indicate cold sores. Avoid sticking your fingers or other objects deep inside your nose. Things like cotton swabs can lodge themselves in your nose, which may cause severe harm. See your doctor or leave the sore alone if you can’t locate the source of the pain.

Use this treatment option only if you feel well and may not come into contact with anyone. Remember that even a cold sore in your nose is contagious to others. [7] X Research source

Common medications for cold sores are Acyclovir (Zovirax), Famciclovir (Famvir), and Valacyclovir (Valtrex). [10] X Research source [11] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Follow dosing instructions given by your doctor for maximum efficacy. Your doctor may advise an antiviral infection if your outbreak is severe. [12] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Penciclovir (Denavir)[13] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Acyclovir cream (the antiviral treatment in topical form — may be more effective than other topical treatments)[14] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Docosanol 10% (Abreva), which you can purchase over the counter. [15] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Buy these treatments at most pharmacies and some grocery stores or large retailers. You could also order them online. Be aware, though, that these remedies may only offer minimal or short-term relief.

Take an over the counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to minimize pain. Apply ice or a cool washcloth to the outside of your nose may also help. [18] X Research source

Lysine supplements or creams Propolis, an ointment also known as synthetic beeswax Stress reduction through breathing exercises and meditation. [20] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source A sage or rhubarb cream, or a combined sage-rhubarb cream. [21] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Lip balm containing lemon extract for lesions not too deep in your nose. [22] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Abstain from oral sex and kissing, even if the blisters are only in your nose. [24] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Keep your fingers and hands away from your eyes. [25] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Wash with any type of soap, which can kill bacteria. Lather the soap on your hands for at least 20 seconds. Dry your hands completely with a clean or disposable towel.

Keep a separate set of utensils, towels, and other linens when you have an outbreak. Avoid using lip balms and personal items from other people. [28] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source

Organize your day with a flexible schedule that incorporates time to relax can reduce your stress. Avoid stressful situations if possible. Take deep breaths or try breathing exercises to help you relax. [30] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Get regular exercise, which can also help reduce stress. [31] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep per night. [32] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Don’t push yourself if you feel like you’re getting sick. Make sure you get adequate rest and take time off work or school if you need to.

Call your doctor and ask for a prescription to minimize and treat your outbreak.