Cold sores, which is caused by the herpes simplex virus, can be cured in several ways. This type of virus initially remains hidden inside the nerve cells of the body. Certain things trigger it off that result in flare ups. Some of them are exposure to UV rays, cold, wind, excessive stress, and anxiety. This problem should be immediately treated so that you can prevent any future flare ups.
After you begin a treatment on cold sores, it continues to be there for about a week or so. The area where you have developed a sore should be covered with some petroleum-based product. Prevention is better than cure as we all know. If you are a bit conscious, try avoiding any contact with a person who is infected with this virus. Never use his/her utensils, towel, cups, razor, etc. Also, make sure you don’t kiss an infected person as cold sores are contagious.
When you have coldsore, avoid having citrus fruits and also salty and acidic foods. It is very important that you wash your hands properly after you have touched the sores. Care should be taken that you are not touching your eyes after touching the infected part as that can in the worst case damage your eyes. To reduce the pain, over-the-counter painkillers can help.
As the sores flares up when it gets exposed to sunlight, so it is always recommended to apply sunscreen before going outside. You can also use a lipstick with sunscreen for protecting your lips. Lysine supplements, lemon balm, and Vitamin C are a few complimentary medicines for treating cold sores. Oral antiviral medications really help. One of them is acyclovir that is often prescribed by the doctor. In order to reduce the unbearable pain, you can even use ointments having benzocaine in them.
There are several home treatments for cold sores. You can apply a pinch of salt to the infected part, which will though give pain, but will help in healing the problem faster. The compound known as Kyolic that is present in garlic works in an excellent way in healing up the problem.
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