Cold sores are usually outbreaks of the herpes simplex virus that fully half of the population carries around in their bodies. Some people are more prone to developing cold sores than others, and trying to get rid of cold sores, both immediately or longer-term, can be somewhat of a challenge for them.
Cold sores present themselves initially as a small red blister that can become a cluster of smaller blisters within a few days. The sore may weep a clear-colored liquid, with a scab forming later. During the early stages of sore formation one may feel a tingling sensation on the lip, later followed by itching or burning. Many cold sore sufferers also experience other kinds of body sensations during an outbreak, such as a low grade fever, minor body aches and pains, swollen lymph nodes, and fatigue.
Cold sores can last as little as a couple of days, or up to as long as two weeks for the more severe cases. The herpes virus can be very contagious, so you may want to refrain from sharing cups, food, or kisses with anyone during an outbreak.
It’s not all that unusual for a big cold sore to erupt on your lip at exactly the wrong time, like before a party, date, graduation, or other big event where you may be feeling some extra stress. Other hormone changes can also trigger for cold sores. Research shows that there can be other causes for cold sores, including a compromised immune system, menstruation, and too much exposure to the sun.
When a cold sore strikes, the goal is to intervene in the infection process as early as possible and try to keep the virus from replicating. As with most conditions that manifest themselves externally, a balanced, inside-outside approach to dealing with them is usually the most effective long-term strategy.
Acyclovir and penciclovir are FDA-approved medications for topical application on cold sores, but the jury is still out on whether or not they’re any more effective in treating herpes simplex than organic agents and oral supplements. It’s now commonly thought that, for an adult, consumption of at least 60 grams of protein daily is the minimum amount required to help ward off cold sores. Other nutritional steps can also be taken to maintain an environment hostile to cold sore development.
Other things you can do to lessen your chances of developing cold sores include staying out of the sun and reducing stress. Your blood’s calcium levels drop when you’re exposed to the sun, and lower calcium levels tend to stimulate the herpes virus. To reduce your stress levels, many people resort to exercise, listening to music, doing creative things, praying, meditating, and enjoying their favorite hobby.
If you follow these simple guidelines and some others that combat cold sore formation from a more holistic perspective, you, too, can find relief from those irritating outbreaks that only cause pain and embarrassment.
A research associate at GetRidOf.biz, Monica Limpasas regularly checks out and evaluates the latest health-related information products that help people get rid of cold sores and other conditions. To read Monica’s candid and unbiased reviews of 3 products that help people get rid of cold sores, click here!