Cold sore that keeps healing then spreading

Hi, I've had a cold sore that started and went away breifly then spread to all over my lips. It's been over a month and it still won't go away. I have tried everything. I took Valtrex the 2nd day of the cold sore and it did not get better. I got the Danivir cream and continously use it, and the affected area heals but then a new area becomes infected the next day. I am now on acyclovir and prednisone, but it does not seem to be getting better. This cold sore has lasted over a month, with no end in sight. Every day I wake up with a new spot that has a sore. What do I do??

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Topical and oral antivirals are the treatment of choice for cold sores caused by herpes simplex virus. In addition to these zinc oxide has proved beneficial in getting rid of cold sores on mouth. You should also eat plenty of yoghurt and curd as it can halt a cold sore from growing if taken right when the sore begins to develop.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.