For what length of time do cold sores usually last and is there anything i can do?

Tx: Usually 7 to 10 days without treatment. Melissa officinalis or lemon balm (cream) expedites healing of cold sores. It can reduce healing time by half. Studies also show that regular use can help v recurrences. Brief supplementation with lysine 1, 000mg orally three times a day at the onset, can also hasten healing. Your physician can prescribe oral valtrex (valacyclovir).

Time & Comfort: Comfortable - anything that makes you comfortable. It takes about 2 weeks to go away no matter what you seem to do. However check with your pharmacy for a few items that may make you more comfortable - remember that they generally do not shorten the 2 week time.

Treat early.: At the first sign of pressure or tingling, an antiviral such as Zovirax or Valtrex (valacyclovir) may successfully abort the development of the lesion and will certainly shorten its course. The same can be said for heat. I was involved in a clinical study that proved the effectiveness and safety of heat application, 3-6 degrees above body temperature. You can purchase a device online for this purpose.