Last Updated on Tuesday, 08 September 2009 12:59

Cold Sore Self Care

You can stop a cold sore spreading to others.

• Avoid skin contact, e.g. kissing, touching or picking the cold sore, especially when it has blistered. do not break your cold sore blister.

• 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.

• Use you own eating and drinking utensils, towels and face cloths when you have a cold sores.

• Avoid sharing lipstick or lip balms. Wipe lipstick testers before using them, and preferably test them on your hand or wrist.

• Learn to recognise and manage your cold sore ‘triggers’

• Keep fit - it may help you manage stress and keep your immune system healthy.

• 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

• 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.

• If your cold sore does not heal within 3 weeks.

• You have a cold sore and your eyes become red, watery or sensitive to light.