Cold Sores home remedies and natural cures, Questions and Answers
The Herpes Simplex virus causes cold sores, which are sometimes called fever blisters. Cold sores are very contagious and sometimes mistaken for canker sores. Generally, cold sores occur on the area around the lips but can occur on the nostrils, chin, genitals, and fingers. The medical term herpes labialis is used by doctors for cold sores/fever blisters.
Symptoms of Cold Sores
Exposure to Virus
Twenty days after being exposed to the virus signs and symptoms may appear. Red or brown fluid filled blisters may appear that are small yet quite painful. The blisters may ooze or burst open. A slight tingling sensation is usually felt before the blister actually appears. Once infected the virus may make you feel irritable, have a headache and fever. Some people experience problems swallowing liquids or foods. It is common for the lips to swell and itch and the neck lymph nodes may swell as well. Small children may drool and symptoms usually last from 7-10 days.
Causes of Cold Sores
HSV 1 AND HSV2 Virus
There are two types of viruses that cause cold sores. They are the HSV 1 and HSV 2 viruses. Most of the time HSV1 is the cause of cold sores and HSV 2 cause genital herpes. However both can infect either area of the body. Since these viruses are very contagious hugging and kissing should be avoided when someone has an outbreak. Small children may spread the disease by playing with one another.
Reoccurrence of Cold Sores
There are some reoccurrences of cold sores such as cosmetic surgery, pregnancy, dental treatment, injury to the gum or lips, fatigue, hormonal changes, stress, and others.
Remedies for Cold Sores
Use Ice
A good home remedy is ice. Simply rub the infected skin with ice every hour.
Use Tea Bag
Applying tea bags to the blisters every hour can help.
Other Remedies
Some individuals find relief from applying Witch Hazel to the sores. You could also use salt on the sore as well as aloe Vera gel, lemon balm extract, and the like. Those with weakened immune systems will take longer to heal.