Cold Sore Remedies: a Simple Guide to Alleviate the Pain
Cold sores are common in the winter season and several people suffer
from them. But what causes cold sores and what can be done to treat
them? What causes cold sores?
The Herpes Simplex virus is a common virus that infects children
during childhood causing the same cold sores. But after the disease and
its symptoms have subsided, there are chances that the virus travels up
the pathway of a nerve and goes into hibernation there. In the shelter
of the nerve and its coverings, the herpes virus can survive in a
dormant stage for a very long time. But when the immune system is
compromised or when the patient is feeling weak and sick; the virus can
replicate rapidly and attack the body causing the cold sores.
 One typical sign is that the cold sores follow the path of nerve that
they are hiding along. So you may get linearly arranged cold sores or a
single cold sore on the facial areas. The problem starts with severe
tingling and pain in the affected area, followed by blisters which then
break open into an ulcer.
The entire process is accompanied by severe pain and takes about two
weeks to subside completely. In the entire period, the cold sore is
contagious and patients should refrain from direct contact with other
people to prevent spreading the virus.
Any treatment possible? There is no permanent treatment for
the cold sores but you can try to control the symptoms and the results
of the condition as much as possible. Common home remedies to deal with
the pain and cold sores are
- Proper sterilization of cups and utensils to prevent the spread
of the virus into other people in the family. Use over the counter
medications like topical creams and ointments to control the pain.
Most ointments contain 2-4% of anaesthetic gels to reduce pain,
burning and itching.
-
 Lysine is a common supplement that seems to be able to reduce
the frequency and severeness of the cold sores. Researchers from the
Southern California University have proved that the supplements do
work. The recommended dose is about 2000 to 3000 mg per day but do
check with a certified naturopathic physician before you take any
supplements.
- Try applying ice on the blister as soon as it comes up. This
helps quite a lot and several people say that the ice reduces the
swelling and the appearance of the blister when it comes up. But
ensure that you have kept the area dry and free of water. There are
chances that the blister may get pussy. If that happens do get in
touch with a doctor immediately.
- Replace your toothbrush after infection. The virus is secreted
in saliva and you might be reinfecting yourself with it every time
you brush. Try to change your tooth brush at least once in three
months and immediately after every attack. Also ensure that you do
not store your tooth brush in the bathroom as the humidity causes
the virus to remain hale and hearty for a longer period of time.
- In the same way replace your tooth paste too regularly after
every attack. When you secrete out toothpaste from the tube you are
always touching the wet toothbrush to the tube opening which can
cause the virus to spread. Replace toothpaste regularly or use
smaller tubes.
- Water based zinc solutions seem to work really well to clean the
wound and reduce the inflammation. Apply the solution repeatedly
every 30-60 minutes for best effects. Two percent water based zinc
gluconate solutions seem to work best as they sterilise the wound
and prevent the virus from replicating. They are also softer on skin
and prevent dryness.
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