Cold sores are fever blisters that appear on your lips and around your mouth. They are tiny fluid-filled pockets and may break open or ooze. These blisters are often grouped in patches and caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1). They go away on their own within two to four weeks. Cold sores can easily spread from one person to another by close contact such as kissing and sharing utensils, towels, and razors.
Read on to learn more about the causes, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of cold sores with natural remedies...
What is the Main Cause of Cold Sores?
A cold sore is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus. The Herpes Virus can remain inactive in your body for years before causing a cold sore. In addition to the mouth and lips, cold sores can also occur on your eyes, tongue, cheeks, and nose.
How Do Cold Sores Develop?
The main cause of cold sores is the Herpes Simplex Virus.Once you are exposed to the virus, the following factors can trigger the reoccurence of cold sores:
- Exposure to sunlight and wind
- Fever or viral infection
- Changes in the immune system
- Hormonal changes during menstruation or pregnancy
- Fatigue
- Stress
What Are the Symptoms of Cold Sores?
Symptoms of cold sores include:
- Itching, burning, or tingling sensation on or around the lips
- Lip swelling
- Nausea
- Difficulty swallowing
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Blisters, lesions, or ulcers on the mouth or tongue
- Dehydration
- Fever
- Painful gums
- Muscle aches
Treatment of Cold Sores
Cold sores usually go away on their own after a few days. If you experience outbreaks of blisters, medications can help reduce the healing time.
Ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce the pain associated with the cold sore. Zinc oxide cream can kill the virus cells released by the cold sore. Hydrogen peroxide and alcohol can be applied to keep the sore clean and limit the infection.
How to Get Rid of a Cold Sore Fast with Natural Remedies
There are several natural remedies to get rid of a cold sore. However, you should always consult with your doctor to choose the most suitable natural remedy for your condition.
Here are some natural remedies that will help you treat or prevent cold sores:
1. Ice
Ice can ease the inflammation and discomfort of cold sores. Cold food and drinks may also soothe the area affected by a cold sore. Apply an ice pack to the sores for quick relief.
2. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm contains antiviral properties, which can reduce swelling and redness caused by cold sores. Use a lip balm or you can directly put one or two drops of lemon balm oil on the infected area.
3. Aloe vera
A research conducted in 2016 reveals that antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties of aloe vera have inhibitory effects against cold sores. Aloe vera gel is widely available for purchase, and you can also grow it as a houseplant.
4. Sunscreen
Lips are vulnerable to UV rays because they don’t have melanin. Sunscreen protects your lips from UV rays when the cold sore is healing and reduces future outbreaks when worn daily on the lips.
5. Reduce Stress
Stress can cause cold sores. Stress is an inducing factor that awakens the dormant Herpes Simplex Virus. Meditation, simple exercises, and yoga are found to reduce stress. Also, stay away from the factors that trigger stress.
Related Article: What Your Tongue Tells You About Your Overall Health
Call us today to learn more about cold sores or schedule an appointment with our dentist in West Des Moines.
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