Cold Sore Prevention And Protection

Cold Sore Prevention And Protection
April 4, 2007
Medical News Today

Most people contract the cold sore virus, caused by the herpes simplex one virus, when they are young and it is spread in saliva or mucus that comes from the nose and mouth.

If you already have cold sores, you can protect others by following these simple precautions:

-- Change your toothbrush and towels regularly, and don't let anyone else use them. By the same token, do not use those belonging to other people either.

-- Don't share eating utensils or cups and glasses.

-- Avoid kissing anyone - particularly babies and small children who are so vulnerable.

-- Wash your hands frequently and take care to avoid rubbing your eyes or having contact with the genital area in order to stop the virus spreading.

The life cycle of a cold sore takes about ten days but the good news is that if you feel a cold sore coming, it is possible to treat the cold sore immediately thereby preventing it from taking a hold. However, if a cold sore does make an appearance before treatment can be commenced, the following tips can help in making the cold sore better:

-- Use a natural healing formula made from essential oils as soon as possible as such a product has been found to be very helpful.

-- Take a non prescriptive pain killer.

-- Resist the temptation to lick or touch the area, while keeping it as dry and clean as possible. An alcohol solution can help.

-- Wrap some ice in a damp, clean cloth and apply this to the cold sore every 5 to 10 minutes.

-- Try a moistened tea bag pressed on the cold sore every few minutes - the tannic acid in the tea has anti-viral properties.

-- Powdered common salt and spirit of camphor may also be helpful in shortening the appearance of the cold sores.

-- Avoid eating acidic food - for example lemons, grapefruit.

-- Make sure to protect the area from the sun and wind.

In the long run, however, strengthening the immune system while adopting a healthy lifestyle with good eating habits and avoiding too much stress can only help to reduce recurrences. It is also wise not to expose the face to too much sun.