You may be wondering what the term cold sores means. Basically, they are a viral infection that appears on the lips. They are caused by a virus known as herpes simplex 1. If you have had a cold sore in the past, then you know about the pain and discomfort that it causes. Cold sores are very contagious, and can easily spread from person to person. However, some people who get cold sores do not show any signs of discomfort or pain.
It is important to know how to avoid spreading coldsores. There are a variety of treatments for them, but some of them can cause complications. If you are prone to them, then you may want to use antiviral medication on a regular basis. However, it is important to note that these medications cannot always prevent the occurrence of blisters.
One type of cold sore treatment that you may find helpful is an antiviral cream. There are both medications and lotions available over the counter. These creams help prevent the cold sores from breaking out and scaring. You should talk to your doctor if you are on medication for herpes because there are specific cold sore medications that prevent the herpes virus from replicating. Most cold sores will disappear in a few days to a week, so you do not have to worry about the symptoms showing up right away.
Some people who have long dormant herpes simplex virus do not have outbreaks until they are triggered. This makes it possible for someone who is naturally immune to cold sores to have them and not show any signs of discomfort or pain. Unfortunately, this also makes it possible for someone to catch the herpes virus through contact with open wounds or open cuts.
If you notice blisters forming around your mouth, throat, or nose, then you could be contagious. However, these blisters should not be swollen or feel heavy, and they may not feel painful at all. If you do have active cold sores or fever blisters, it is important to see your doctor as soon as you can so that you can start treatment to stop active herpes simplex virus from spreading to other parts of your body. Your doctor can perform a pap smear or skin scrape to see if you have genital warts. You will need to go for special medication to make sure that you don’t pass this infection on to your partner.
To prevent future outbreaks of cold sores, it is important to stick to a healthy diet that is low in fat and sugar. You should also keep your immune system healthy by getting plenty of exercise. You can get special immunity through supplements that contain probiotics and anti-fungal herbs. You can buy some at a health food store or online. Cold sore treatment options are very limited so you need to decide how bad your cold sore is and what type you want to treat yourself with. If you choose to use an ice pack or a piece of foil wrapped in a tissue paper to cover your mouth, then you have several options to get immediate relief.