The Best Way To Get Rid Of Your Cold Sores Now
Cold sores are small blisters that can be found around the mouth and other mucous membranes. They are also known as fever blisters. Caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV), they are very contagious, and can be spread to other parts of the body. Because cold sores are a virus, they cannot be cured; they can only be treated. It is estimated that approximately 80% of the population suffers from herpes simplex.
HSV comes in two forms. HSV-1 is known best to be the cause of fever blisters. HSV-2 is more commonly known to cause genital herpes infections. Though each type primarily has its own zone, either one can be spread to any part of the body through skin sores, contact with the mouth or genitalia, or in touching mucous membranes infected.
There are five common stages that a cold sore sufferer goes through, each a distinct phase. The tingle stage, as it commonly known, when there is no visible sore and the area burns or itches. The blister stage when small blisters form.
The weeping stage is when the blisters open and weep. The crusting stage is when the blisters first start to crust over. Then there is the final healing stage, which can generally last a few days to a week or more.
There are several treatments, both over the counter and prescribed, that can treat the burning, itching, and general discomfort. There are even a few home remedies that have been tried during the ‘tingle’ stage such as applying ice for intervals or a damp tea bag to the area.
Practicing safe methods, such as keeping hands clean and not touching other parts of the body after touching a sore is important through the entire outbreak, especially once ulcers form. Blindness has even occurred after scarring of the corneas when cold sores have been spread to the eyes. Kissing and oral sex, or sex if blisters are present in the genital area, should be refrained from during this time as well to prevent passing on herpes simplex.
The author has been in the field of cold sore removal for a long time and maintains a website about how to remove cold sores where you can get answers to the rest of your questions.
Salt solution as well as the well-known diphenhydramine and Maalox mixture has both showed commendable results in reducing the symptoms of canker sores. Naturopathic treatments using herbal concoctions from Rhadiola Rosea or the Spilanthes acmella flower are also prescribed by some providers. However, no intensive medical studies have been done to scrutinize contra indication properties and possible adverse side effects of these natural compounds.