Cold Sore: Have You Been Naughty?!

Some people live with the recurrent frustration of having cold sore on their lips. Besides causing pain and discomfort, these blisters sometimes invite the judgement of being inflicted with sexually transmitted disease. While that is partially correct, there are still more to learn about cold sores.

What is Cold Sore?

Cold sore is a painful blister that commonly appears on the mouth and lips though it can also be found on other parts of the body such as the nose, cheeks or fingers. These blisters are caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) infection, which is transmitted through contact between pus from cold sores and an open wound during activities including kissing, sharing of utensils and oral sex.

A cold sore begins with tingling, itching or burning sensations around the affected area. A small, fluid-filled blister will usually appear within the next 48 hours. As it bursts, it crusts into a scab and healing takes place. Under normal circumstances, a cold sore should heal within two weeks.

Not everyone with HSV-1 virus will develop cold sores. The virus can remain dormant without causing any physical discomfort until it is triggered. Factors leading to the trigger include sunlight, stress or lowered immunity. Although there are medications to treat cold sores, the HSV-1 infection currently has no cure, which explains the recurring nature of cold sores.

How to Prevent Recurrent Cold Sore?

1. Consume Diet Rich in Lysine

Lysine and arginine are amino acids that interfere with the growth of the virus. These virus thrive and multiply in arginine-rich environments and cease to multiply in lysine-rich environments. Thus, increasing lysine intake would result in reduced cold sore episodes.  Food high in lysine-to-arginine ratio include apples, apricots, fish, poultry and meat.

2. Boost Immune System

Having a strong immune system helps to combat recurring cold sores. Simple actions like managing stress and sleeping enough can lower the production of hormones that suppress our immune system. Taking vitamin C supplements can also strengthen the immune system while also obtaining the extra benefits of improving our skin conditions and healing the skin more quickly.

3. Gear Up for Sun Protection

Prolonged exposure to the sun can damage the skin due to the removal of moisture from the lips, causing the emergence of cold sores. Dried, chapped lips also provide an easy entry point for the virus, which can lead to cold sores on a later date. Hence, minimal sun exposure and having protective gear such as hats and lip balm containing sunscreen should be advised to shield the lips against harsh sunlight.

Conclusion:

Although the symptoms of cold sores are generally mild and manageable, an appointment with your doctor is warranted if you have a weakened immune system or frequent cold sore outbreaks. Other conditions related to cold sores include blisters that do not heal within two weeks or irritation of the eyes. If you would like to see a doctor, book your appointment with GetDoc today.

References:

1. What are cold sores? 
2. Cold sores 
3. The guide to never getting cold sores: Foods to eat, foods to avoid, and supplements to take 
4. 10 simple and natural ways to boost your immune system 
5. Cold sores due to sun exposure — Why it happens and staying safe
6. Treating and preventing cold sores — When you should see a doctor? 

Tags

• Boost immune
• Cold sores
• Herpes Simplex Virus
• Lysine
• Sun protection