Cold sores, also known as cold sores, are a viral infection that affects many people. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and are contagious even if you can't see them. They usually appear on the mouth or other parts of the face, but in rare cases they can also develop in the nose. There is no cure for the virus that causes cold sores, but you can treat the blisters in your nose and control the virus by taking medication and preventing new attacks.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Treating cold sores in your nose
Step 1. Find out if you have cold sores in your nose
Because it's hard to see inside your nose, you may need to check for a cold sore or other medical problem like an ingrown hair or pimple. By checking the spots in and around your nose, you can find out if you have cold sores in your nose.
- Use a mirror to check the visible surfaces in your nasal cavity. You may not be able to see much, but seeing just one cold sore can help.
- Recognize the symptoms of cold sores in your nose, such as tingling, itching, burning, feeling painful bumps, and pus coming from small blisters. You may also have a fever and headache.
- See if your nose is inflamed anywhere on the inside or outside. This may indicate that you have cold sores.
- Do not put fingers or other objects deep into your nose. Objects like cotton swabs can get stuck in your nose and cause serious injuries.
- See your doctor or leave the blister alone if you can't pinpoint the cause of the pain.
Step 2. Let the blisters heal on their own
Let the cold sores in your nose heal without treating them if they are not too big. In many cases, the blisters heal within one to two weeks if left untreated.
Only opt for this treatment if you are feeling well and are not in contact with other people. Remember that even a cold sore in your nose is contagious to others
Step 3. Wash the cold sores gently
Wash any cold sores in your nose when you notice them. Cleaning the area gently may help prevent the infection from spreading and help the blisters heal.
- Use a washcloth moistened with warm, soapy water if the blisters are not very deep in your nasal cavity. Wash the washcloth in the washing machine with hot water and detergent before using it again.
- Heat a glass of water to a comfortable temperature. Make sure the water is warm but doesn't burn your skin. Then add a little bacterial soap. Dip a cotton swab in the water and gently hold it over the cold sore in your nose, if it's not too deep in your nose. Repeat the process two to three times a day.
Step 4. Use prescription antiviral drugs
Ask your doctor for a prescription for an antiviral drug and use it. This can help treat attacks more quickly, make the attacks less severe, and reduce the chances of passing the virus on to others.
- Medications commonly prescribed for cold sores include aciclovir (Zovirax), famciclovir (unbranded), and valacyclovir (Zelitrex).
- Follow the instructions your doctor has given you regarding the dose. The medicine will therefore work as well as possible.
- Your doctor may recommend antiviral treatment for a severe attack.
Step 5. Apply a topical cream
Because the cold sores are in your nose, this may not be the easiest to apply. Consider using a topical cream if you want to shorten the duration of your attack, relieve your discomfort, or reduce the chance of infecting someone else. Ask your doctor about the best way to apply the following creams:
- Penciclovir (Fenistil)
- Aciclovir cream (the topical form of this antiviral - this may work better than other topical products)
- Docosanol 10% (Erazaban), which you can get without a prescription
Step 6. Soothe itching and irritation with ointment
Your cold sores can be itchy and irritated. To reduce your symptoms, you can consider applying a gel or cream with lidocaine or benzocaine. Know that these remedies only provide minimal relief for a short period of time.
- You can get such products at most pharmacies, as well as some supermarkets and drug stores.
- Apply these remedies with a clean finger or a cotton swab if the cold sores are not too deep in your nasal cavity.
Step 7. Soothe the pain caused by the cold sores
Blisters and cold sores caused by the herpes simplex virus can be very painful. In addition to using topical ointments, there are several ways you can reduce the pain and discomfort.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease the pain.
- Putting a cold washcloth or ice on your nose can also help.
Step 8. Consider alternative means
Studies show that treating cold sores with alternative remedies produces varying results. Consider using these if you don't want to use chemicals or as an adjunct to medical treatment. However, ask your doctor for advice first. Some alternative remedies that might work include:
- Supplements and creams with lysine.
- Propolis, or an ointment with synthetic beeswax.
- Reducing stress through breathing exercises and meditation.
- A cream with sage and/or rhubarb.
- Lip balm with lemon extract for blisters that are not too deep in your nose.
Part 2 of 2: Preventing new cold sores
Step 1. Avoid or limit skin-to-skin contact
The fluid that flows from the blisters contains the virus and can infect others. By avoiding or limiting skin-to-skin contact, you can prevent infecting others with the blisters or making yours worse.
- Stop oral sex and kissing, even if the blisters are only in your nose.
- Keep your fingers and hands away from your eyes.
Step 2. Wash your hands often
Whenever you have a cold sore, wash your hands before touching yourself or anyone else, even if the blister is in your nose. This way you can prevent transferring the virus to your skin or to someone else.
- Wash your hands with a soap that kills bacteria.
- Soak your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds.
- Dry your hands completely on a clean towel or paper towel.
Step 3. Only use your own stuff
When you have cold sores, it is important not to share things with other people. This reduces the chance that you will transmit the virus to others, as well as to other parts of your skin.
- Use a different set of cutlery, towels, and linen when you have cold sores.
- Do not use lip balms and personal items belonging to other people.
Step 4. Control stress, illness and fatigue
Stress, illness and fatigue can make you more susceptible to a cold sore attack. Keep stressful situations under control as much as possible and make sure you get enough sleep, especially when you're sick.
- You can reduce stress by organizing your day according to a flexible schedule that includes time to relax.
- Avoid stressful situations, if possible.
- Take a deep breath or try breathing exercises to help you relax.
- Exercise regularly. This can also help to reduce stress.
- Try to get seven to nine hours of sleep at night.
- Don't force yourself to do certain things if you find yourself getting sick. Make sure you get enough sleep and call in sick at work or school if necessary.
Step 5. Watch for the symptoms of a seizure
If you notice the symptoms of an attack, treat them right away. This will allow you to shorten the duration of the attack and reduce its severity. If you get that distinct tingling or itching sensation that often occurs at the beginning of an attack, it's a good idea to start treatment right away.