Cold sores present as blisters beneath the surface of the skin around someone’s mouth or the lips. These blisters can break open with time, ooze or crust over. They typically last for around 7 to 10 days, and during this time, they can cause a high level of discomfort. According to research, about two-thirds of adults under 50 worldwide test positive for the virus that causes these sores. Most people won’t show any symptoms, but some will experience recurring outbreaks from time to time.
What Causes the Sores?
Cold sores are a symptom of the Herpes Simplex virus. If you contract this virus, you will experience a breakout of the sores within a few days. The first breakout is usually the worst, often leading to a sore throat, fever, headache, and body pains.
You can catch the virus from sharing a cup with someone carrying the virus, sharing makeup, and any oral contact, including kissing. So, you don’t have to be sexually active to contract the virus. Although the cold sores might disappear with time, the virus doesn’t leave the body. It just remains dormant in your nervous system, and with time, you might have another breakout. The flare-ups can be triggered by so many things like hormonal fluctuations, stress, fevers, sun exposure, surgery, or illnesses.
Cold Sore Treatment
Cold sores can be pretty uncomfortable, and you’ll probably want to get rid of them. Unfortunately, there isn’t a cure for cold sores. However, you can try a few home remedies to alleviate the pain and discomfort if OTC treatments are unavailable. Here are the top remedies for cold sores:
- Ice Pack
Ice packs are easily accessible and very economical. To calm the pain arising from the cold sore, you can grab an ice pack, wrap it in a hand towel and place it over the affected area. Place the pack there for a couple of minutes at a time and repeat the process after a few hours. This will help reduce inflammation, thus reducing the size of the cold sore.
- Milk Compress
A tablespoon of cold milk on a piece of cloth pressed against the cold sore will give you a cooling effect. In addition, it will alleviate any pain and the itching sensation. It’s believed that milk has lactic virus-fighting antibodies known as immunoglobulin, which help fight against the virus. Although this hasn’t been proven scientifically, it helps some people, and it’s worth a try.
- Licorice Root Paste
Licorice has anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties which may stop the cold sore virus from spreading, although further research is required. For a cold sore, you can make some licorice root paste or powder and apply it topically over the affected area. To hasten the process, you can mix the powder with one teaspoon of petroleum jelly, apply it topically and leave it on for some hours.
- Increase your Vitamin Intake
Cold sores appear whenever your immune system is compromised or overwhelmed by the virus. So, you have to keep your immune system strong, and the best way to do this is by eating foods that are rich in vitamins C and K. These vitamins have antioxidant powers. So, you should consume more citrus fruits, berries, kiwis, and melons. You can also try eating other foods like beans, shellfish, and whole grains.
- Aloe vera Gel
Aloe vera is usually recommended for dry skin or for soothing sore or broken skin. It also works wonderfully in clearing up cold sores. Aloe vera is a natural antifungal and antibacterial agent, and it might help with the virus. You can make a cold sore patch, apply some aloe vera gel on it and place it over the cold sore.
Summary
Lastly, you should consider tossing your toothbrush. Cold sore viruses are highly contagious and spread easily. So to avoid infecting another part of your mouth, you should ditch your old toothbrush and replace it. Also, consider disposing of other products such as lip balms or lipsticks.
Although there isn’t a cure for cold sores, the tips explained in this article will help you overcome the pain and possibly hasten the healing process. So, the next time you have a flare-up, consider using any of the tips mentioned above for relief.
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