Cold sores
Remedy Solution on 1st, 2007 Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are small, fluid-filled blisters caused by herpes simplex virus (HSV). They are not contagious, although they are often mistaken for canker sores, which is a non-contagious mouth ulcer. Herpes labialis are cold sores found on the lips and mouth. It can also appear on the chin, nostrils, fingers or the genital area.
Symptoms
Direct contact with the herpes simplex virus will trigger the onset of the disease within 20 days. The skin will grow small, fluid-filled blisters that can either be color red or brown. These blisters may be painful for some people and it may threaten to burst. After 1-2 days, a tingling sensation may occur. Fever, headache, itching, quick temper and swelling of the lips and lymph nodes may follow.
The patient might have trouble swallowing foods or any forms of liquids. Drooling is apparent for small children before a cold sore appears.
Symptoms may last from 7-10 days.
Causes
The herpes simplex virus (HSV) is classified into 2 types: HSV 1, which causes oral herpes, and HSV 2, which causes genital herpes. These viruses are highly contagious and are easily acquired by direct contact. It can easily be transferred when interacting with an infected patient. A person who recently recovered from cold sores may still carry the virus in their saliva although the symptoms are already undetectable.
Cosmetic surgery, unhygienic dental treatments, overdue fatigue, lip or gum injury, hormonal changes, and pregnancy may threaten the cold sores to come back.
Home Remedies
Ice: Rub ice on the infected skin for few minutes. Repeat the procedure every hour.
Tea bags: Put a used tea bag on the blisters for a few minutes. Repeat the procedure every hour. You can also try pressing a warm tea bag on the blisters for about half an hour.
Witch Hazel: Applying witch hazel astringent on the sores will provide immediate relief.
Salt: Press some table salt on the sores for 30 seconds using your moist index finger.
Aloe Vera: Rub aloe Vera in gel or oil form on the sores as gentle as possible.
Lemons: Lemon balm extract helps reduce the appearance of symptoms and helps speed up recovery. This remedy should be taken especially for patients with weak immune system.
Diets
Eat lots of fresh fruits and green leafy vegetables; foods that rich in antioxidants and high complex carbohydrates; include garlic in your diet. Avoid processed foods.
Eat foods that are rich in vitamin A, C and E, iron and zinc.
Foods that are high in A-amino acid L-arginine such as chocolates, peanuts, grains, peas, seeds, oatmeal and whole-wheats should be avoided for they help cultivate the herpes virus.
Avoid tea and coffee, and acidic and salty foods.
Other Treatments
Wash your hands regularly to prevent the spread of the virus coming from your hand’s fingers.
Avoid contact with blisters caused by cold sores.
Use sunscreen on areas that are vulnerable to the disease.
Observe proper hygiene and never share personal items with an infected person.
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