Cold Sore Remedies

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Are you looking for more information on cold sore remedies? Cold sores can be annoying and incredibly embarrassing. Finding an effective treatment to prevent and treat cold sores quickly is the ideal for any sufferer.

Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus type 1. They are blisters or open sores that appear around the mouth and can be unsightly and painful. Cold sores are contagious and most people who have cold sores usually know when they are going to have a breakout. There is usually a stinging or tingling sensation at the location on the face where the cold sore will appear.

Cold sores cannot be treated permanently as they are caused by a virus but you can notice what triggers a cold sore and try to alleviate the stressor. Some cold sore triggers include stress, colds, menstrual cycles in women and even allergies just to name a few.

Although cold sires cannot be cured, there are effective cold sore remedies that can be used to quicken the healing process. There are a variety of cold sore remedies both prescription, over the counter and natural that can assist in relieving this condition. Many people use prescription medications to suppress and reduce cold sore outbreaks. These anti-viral drugs are best taken on a regular basis or once symptoms of an outbreak are evident to reduce the time you will have a cold sore. There are also prescription based creams that can be used along with the oral medications to reduce appearance and the length of cold sore infection. There are also a number of over the counter treatments for cold sores.

Most of the over the counter products are cream or gel based and are applied to the site of the cold sore. These products work best when used at the onset of pain or symptoms associated with a cold sore. Many of them claim to reduce the amount of time the cold sore is apparent and to reduce the pain and itching associated with them. There are some natural treatments for cold sores which include using aspirin to reduce the pain of a cold sore and Vaseline or lip balm with sunscreen to protect the cold sore from infection. Swabbing your cold sore with milk also helps to reduce the healing time.

Taking the necessary steps to avoid irritating the cold sore will ensure that the cold sore remedies used are effective. Using new personal items such as cups, washcloths and toothbrushes while treating a cold sore outbreak will ensure that you don't spread the virus. Avoiding eating spicy, acidic or salty foods as this can irritate an already painful cold sore increasing the amount of time needed to heal thus negating the effects of any cold sore treatments you are currently using. Use ice packs to reduce the redness and irritation that is common with a cold sore break out.

Most importantly cold sores are contagious. Don't share personal items with anyone while you are recovering from a cold sore outbreak. Make sure to wash your hands thoroughly after handling your cold sore. Using a combination of many different Cold Sore Remedies will ensure that the unpleasantness associated with having a cold sore is kept to a minimum.