Cold Sores

Cold sores can be quite inconvenient, not to mention painful, for those who suffer outbreaks of these fluid filled blisters that form on the mouth. It is the HSV-1 virus that causes colds sores, something that approximately 95% of the population has been exposed to somewhere in their lifetime. Many never have to seek out cold sore treatment. However, for some people the virus lies dormant until triggered by such things as illness or even stress. Breakouts can be utterly unpredictable. It is not uncommon for long periods of dormancy to be followed by a series of breakouts while some only experience one or two breakouts in an entire lifetime.

It should be understood that cold sores and fever blisters are the same thing; therefore, treatments for one will work on the other. A cold sore can cause a burning or itching hours or days before developing into a blister-like eruption on the mouth. In some cold sore pictures, it shows that smaller blisters can form into a larger eruption. Any time that a cold sore is accompanied by fever, eye irritation or the inability to swallow and there is also a known immune suppression problem, a doctor should be contacted right away as these symptoms can indicate underlying health issues.

There are many types of cold sore remedies on the market. Because there is no way to cure a virus, treating a cold sore can consist of both prescribed medications or over the counter remedies. In extreme cases, doctors can give a prescription of acyclovir. Many use products such as Anbesol for Cold Sore Pain. These products work to do away with the burning and itching of a cold sore. A stronger cold sore medicine that contains docosanol will actually interfere with the virus’ ability to form a cold sore. Because sufferers can infect others, it is important that those experiencing an outbreak not share any cups or utensils with others.

Those who prefer a more gentle and natural cold sore remedy have found great relief in adding vitamin B12 to their diet. There is a definite link to a deficiency of vitamin B12 and cold sores. When using remedies that include the vitamin B12, cold sores are known to improve rapidly. Cold sore home remedies that contain ingredients such as coconut oil, witch hazel or aloe vera are also known to be effective as well as cost effective.