More infoApproximately two out of three people under the age of 50 suffer from cold sores - and many may be unaware of how to stop them before they fully develop. To help, Doctor Eric Berg has offered his expert advice on how to "get rid of cold sores overnight" so you don't have to endure the discomfort and appearance of them. Without treatment, cold sores usually clear up within 10 days, but they are contagious and can be irritating or painful while they heal. I went from about four cold sores a year to one every two to three years." Giving other options, someone else wrote: "I have suffered from cold sores all my life and I have tried everything.