Viral infections are extremely contagious and very common. Some viral infections come in the form of a small cold sore, or small fever blister, around the mouth. Such viral infections are caused by herpes simplex. Over exposure to sunlight can easily bring one on. It is very important to wear lip protection when outdoors to help prevent them. Although there is no cure, there are steps and precautions you can take to cut down on the length of time you have a cold sore.
A cold sore can be a painful, awkward red or purplish blister or cluster of blisters. Most times, they are filled with a white or clear liquid. The sore can last as long as two weeks and is usually only located on one side of the mouth. Right before the healing process starts they will become crusty and then scab over as they heal. Most cold sores do not require any type of special medicine.
Even though they are called cold sores and fever blisters, you do not in fact, have to have a fever or a cold to have one. Cold sores are similar to canker sores but they are found inside of the mouth and are tiny white sores.
The viral infection that causes these sores is called herpes. The most common form of herpes is HSV 1 or Herpes Simplex Virus 1, although there are two types of herpes that can cause the sores. Children are more susceptible to reoccurring sores throughout life, when infected with cold sores when they are young. This is due to the virus remaining in the body, even after the sore dries up and heals. The sore will frequently, come back in the same spot over and over again.
Be careful not to drink or eat after someone that you know has a sore on his or her mouth. Also, avoid kissing him or her or sharing towels, washcloths or napkins as all of these can quickly make the virus spread.
There are a number of factors that can cause a flare-up or a mouth sore. For many people, stress and over exposure to sun will cause cold sores. The best ways to avoid mouth sores it to learn how to cope with daily stress, make sure you get enough sleep and eat well. These are all keys to helping people avoid mouth sores.
There are treatments even though there is no cure. Time and again, they will go away with no type of special treatments or medicines. Occasionally the sore can may make the person sick. When this happens the doctor will prescribe a medication to help fight off the virus. Otherwise, frozen items such as ice or Popsicles are great for temporary relief. You can use Motrin or Tylenol if the pain does get too severe.
Summary:
Having a cold sore is never fun. But there are actions that can be taken to help avoid them. Try to stay out of direct sunlight and avoid stress. No matter how much preventative measures one takes to avoid getting a cold sore, he or she can still get one. Fortunately there is short-term respite on hand.
Author Resource:-
Brooke Hayles
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