 Generally signs and symptoms of cold sores are seen after twenty days of exposure to the virus.
Small, painful and fluid-filled red or brown blisters could be seen on the skin. Blisters may burst and ooze. Tingling precedes blisters after one or two days. Once infected by the virus you may experience head ache, irritability and fever. There may be problem in swallowing any food stuff or liquid. Itching and swelling of lips are common. Lymph nodes on the neck may swell. Drooling may be seen among small children. Symptoms may last from seven to ten days.
HSV 1 AND HSV2 Virus Herpes virus that causes cold sores is of two types – HSV 1 and HSV 2. In most of the cases HSV 1 is the cause. Generally HSV 1 causes oral herpes and HSV 2 causes genital herpes, but not necessary, both can infect any area of the body. As these viruses are contagious, cold sores can be caused by close contact like hugging and kissing with the infected person. It may spread among children by playing with the infected child. It may be that a person has recovered from cold sore and the symptoms are not visible but still his saliva may contain virus.
Reoccurence of Cold Sores Some triggers like pregnancy, lips or gum injury, dental treatment, cosmetic surgery, fatigue, stress, hormonal changes etc may cause cold sore to reoccur.
Use Ice Ice is a very good home remedy for cold sores. Rub ice on the infected skin for few minutes, repeat this every hour.
Use Tea Bag Apply a tea bag for few minutes on the blisters, repeat this every hour. One can also consider pressing a warm tea bag on the blisters for approximately 30 minutes.
Other Remedies Applying Witch Hazel on sores will give you some relief. Dip your moist index finger in powdered common salt and press the sore for 30 seconds using this index finger. Gently rub aloe vera gel or oil on the sores. Lemon balm extract helps to reduce symptoms and speeds up healing. Those having weak immune system will take more time to recover and may face more severe consequences.
Cold Sores Diet Avoid acidic and salty foods. Foods such as chocolates, peanuts, grains, peas, seeds, oatmeal and whole-wheat are high in arginine, therefore they should be restricted. Avoid tea and coffee. Eat vitamin rich diet. Your diet must include vitamin A, C and E. Zinc and iron are also necessary. Include garlic in your diet. Eat fresh food with high antioxidants and high complex carbohydrates. Avoid processed food. Eat lots of fruits and green leafy vegetables.
Other Suggestions for Cold Sores Always wash your hand after touching your fingers or genitals. Always avoid direct contact with the blisters due to cold sores. Apply sunscreen cream on the susceptible areas. Never share your personal belongings like tooth brush with the infected person.
Home Remedies
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