Cold Sores - Self Care
Last Updated on Tuesday, 08 September 2009 12:59
Cold Sore Self Care
You can stop a cold sore spreading to others.
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Avoid skin contact, e.g. kissing, touching or picking the cold sore, especially when it has blistered. do not break your cold sore blister.
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Be careful not to touch the cold sore and then rub your eyes. Take extra care if you wear contact lenses and when applying or removing make-up. If your eye becomes red, watery or sensitive to sunlight see you doctor immediately.
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Use you own eating and drinking utensils, towels and face cloths when you have a cold sores.
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Avoid sharing lipstick or lip balms. Wipe lipstick testers before using them, and preferably test them on your hand or wrist.
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Learn to recognise and manage your cold sore ‘triggers’
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Keep fit - it may help you manage stress and keep your immune system healthy.
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Use sunscreens with high blocking capacity (SPF30) if exposure to sun (e.g. during skiing and beach activities) cause your cold sores.
See your doctor
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If a cold sore spreads from your lips or around your mouth and nose to other parts of your face, or if cold sores appear on other parts of your body.
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If your cold sore does not heal within 3 weeks.
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You have a cold sore and your eyes become red, watery or sensitive to light.
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