Effective Cold Sore Treatments
Missed parties, canceled dates, and layers of makeup—these are just some of the realities for those managing the herpes simplex virus. Navigating conversations with partners can also feel challenging. But cold sores do not have to be a barrier to living fully. At Ganger Dermatology in Ann Arbor, Plymouth, and Wixom, MI, we offer treatments to help you manage outbreaks and heal faster, so you can get back to enjoying life with confidence.
Cold Sore Management & Medication
Painful blisters can be frustrating wherever they occur, but when they appear near your lips, they take on a whole new dimension. Living with cold sores can feel like an exercise in managing shame, but we want to help you manage the blisters instead. At the end of the day, the cold sores are the problem—not you.
Cold sores are a common issue, and several prescription medications are available to help reduce the frequency of outbreaks and speed up healing. Antiviral medications have been shown to reduce breakouts and limit their duration. With fewer cold sores, you can live your life with fewer canceled dates, missed parties, and less embarrassment.
Benefits of Cold Sore Medications
Cold Sore FAQs
When speaking about cold sores specifically (rather than pimples, acne, or other common bumps), the most common cause is the herpes simplex virus. This sexually transmitted disease is extremely common. In fact, the CDC estimates that upwards of 48% of the US population has HSV-1. Many of us have it without ever realizing it.
Unfortunately, there is no known cure for either form of the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1, HSV-2). There are, however, many common and time-tested antiviral medications that can effectively manage and treat HSV-1 symptoms, such as cold sores.
The HSV-1 strain of the herpes simplex virus is extremely contagious and transfers easily from person to person. Common activities such as kissing, sharing drinks, and oral sex may all transmit the virus. The herpes simplex virus can even be inherited by newborns during vaginal birth.
Kick Cold Sores to the Curb!
Ultimately, the herpes simplex virus is so common that you’re more likely to have it and not know it than you are to not have it all. But not everyone with HSV-1 develops frequent and painful cold sore outbreaks. If you find yourself delaying plans, putting off meetings, and sheltering at home during common cold sore outbreaks, it’s time to take action with Ganger Dermatology.
During your appointment, we’ll speak with you about your medical history and symptoms. Afterward, we’ll develop a plan of action to make meaningful changes in the frequency and duration of outbreaks. You don’t have to hide your face from the world each time a cold sore grows. With Ganger Derm on your side, you can get back to life as you know and love it.
