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Cold sores can be a nightmare, but here you will find examples
of an effective remedy for cold sore outbreaks (also known
as fever blisters). Cold sores can often be prevented, and
they can be healed if they still occur.
What Is A Cold Sore?
A cold sore or fever blister appears around the outside
of the mouth in people who have contracted the herpes simplex
virus. This is related to but not exactly the same as the
virus that causes genital herpes.
There is currently no cure for the virus. If you
have it, you will have it for the rest of your life, unless
medical research comes up with a cure in the future. It
is highly contagious and you should not kiss anybody, share
toothbrushes or pass somebody a cup that you have drunk
from if you have a cold sore.
The first sign of a cold sore is usually a tingling,
itching or burning sensation. Once formed, the sore is painful
and unsightly. It may weep a clear liquid. After a few days
a scab will form and it will slowly heal.
Cold sores should not be confused with impetigo which forms
between the nose and lips and contains a cloudy, honey-colored
liquid, rather than clear.
Cause Of A Cold Sore
A cold sore will usually appear when your immune system
is low. That's why they are associated with colds and fevers.
They are more likely during any type of illness, including
chronic conditions and cancer,
or if you are run down, or have a poor diet.
A cold sore may also occur at other times, especially after
exposure to the sun, during menstruation
or when you are stressed. Sometimes it is hard to pinpoint
the reason.
Healing The Sore
One of the best remedies for cold sores is gel from the
aloe vera plant. You can buy this, or even better, keep
aloe vera plants and simply take a leaf when you need it.
Break the leaf open and rub the gel onto the sore.
If you use aloe gel as soon as you feel the tingling sensation,
you may be able to stop the cold sore from appearing. If
not, keep using the gel. It can keep the sore small and
help it to heal fast, often without forming a full blister.
If the blister still forms, you can pop it so that it will
drain and begin to heal. Use a tissue to absorb the liquid,
and always wash your hands after touching the sore.
Zinc is also an effective treatment. Apply zinc cream to
the sore to help it to heal more quickly.
It can also help if you change your toothbrush as soon
as you feel the first tingling signs of an approaching cold
sore. Change it again after the blister pops, and again
when the sore is gone.
Native Americans used a herb called Chapparal to treat
viruses and cold sores. There is now a commercial product
called Larreastat based on this herb which can be taken
as capsules or used as a spray. The spray is very good for
relieving the pain of a cold sore.
How To Prevent A Cold Sore
Diet
is often a factor in cold sore outbreaks. Sufferers are
often low in zinc, calcium or vitamin B. The balance of
these vitamins and minerals is important, so before going
ahead with supplementation you may want to take a test to
check which supplements you need.
Eat a little natural live yogurt every day. Be sure to
buy yogurt that is marked live or bioactive. This contains
acidophilus which appears to be very effective in stimulating
the immune system and preventing cold sores.
Foods high in arginine should be reduced or eliminated
from the diet where possible. This includes chocolate, nuts,
seeds, peas, wheat and other grains. If you are vegan, or
cannot reduce these foods for other reasons, you can take
a L-lysine supplement to counterbalance the arginine as
a short term measure. Amino acids should not be taken for
long periods, or if you are pregnant.
When exposed to the sun,
use sun protection factor 15 or higher all over and around
your lips.
Consult a qualified health practitioner before using any
home remedy for cold sore outbreaks, to check that it is
suitable for you.
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Home Remedies ....
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