Cold sore is an infection caused by Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1
(HSV-1) and it is a contagious disease. It can be transmitted through
direct contact or exposure of the virus like kissing and oral sex. Using
toothbrush, silverware and sharing drinks with an infected person will
also spread the virus. Getting the virus is not only annoying but it is
also unsightly and not to mention really embarrassing because people
might avoid you including possible dates. There are medications to
relieve cold sore and there are also cold sore home treatment that you can do. The most important thing is to find a treatment that will work for you to get rid of the infection for good.
The symptoms of the infection starts with the appearance of fluid
filled blisters on the lips area and sometimes also on the nose. You
will also feel itching or burning sensation around the infected areas.
You are prone to the infection when you have weakened immune system,
under stress or fatigue, when you have colds and flu, during menstrual
cycle and prolong exposure under the sun.
It is best to seek professional help or consult your doctor once you
had the symptoms to get immediate treatment. Once infected the virus
lies dormant in your system waiting for the right triggers for another
outbreak. Cold sore home treatment is also gaining popularity because
some people are embarrassed to talk about cold sores to other people.
But it is important that you get the proper treatment to avoid the
infection from becoming chronic.
Aside from professional help, here are some cold sore home treatments to help you get rid of cold sore:
Keep it clean and dry. One cold sore home treatment is to
keep the infected area clean and dry. Dirt and moisture will worsen the
swelling and will invite more bacteria. Wash the area and keep it clean
and dry.
Contain the virus. It is important that you control the virus from
spreading and causing more infections. Replace your toothbrush because
it is a good breeding area for the virus. If you keep using the
toothbrush, there is a high possibility that an outbreak will happen
again after you are healed.
Improve your immune system. You are prone to the virus if you have
weak anti-bodies. Boost your immune system by getting enough sleep,
eating a well balanced meal, regular exercise and taking vitamin
supplements.
Cold tea bag treatment. This is one cold sore home treatment
that some people find effective. Tea bag has tannic acid which has
anti-viral properties. Dip the tea bag on cold water until it is
thoroughly wet then hold the tea bag in place on the affected area as
long as you can.
Ice treatment. Ice is another cold sore home treatment that
stops the virus from flourishing. Put an ice cube in a clean
handkerchief and hold it in place on the affected area for a few seconds
and repeat it after a few minutes. Just be careful not to hurt your
skin. This treatment will prevent the swelling and forming of blisters.
Yogurt treatment. Yes, eating plain yogurt is also a cold sore home treatment.
The acidophilus bacteria in yogurt are known to fight the virus causing
cold sores. Just be sure that you will get plain yogurt with active
acidophilus bacteria.
Cold sores outbreak is a very annoying and frustrating experience. If
you have tried almost everything and still suffering from an outbreak,
natural treatment is another option. Get rid of cold sore naturally and
permanently in just 3 days, visit Cold Sore Free Forever
