Seven Things Everyone Hates About Cold Sore Outbreaks
Cold sores do not discriminate. They appear on all colors of skin, affect people of all ages and strike the affluent as easily as those struggling to get by. They are also disliked by all of these people equally. Anyone that repeatedly struggles with the nasty blisters will instantly understand how someone else is feeling when they spot them with the obvious blemish forming on their face. Here is a sample of the seven things people despise about suffering through an outbreak.
#1. Feeling ill for a few days before they begin.
It is not uncommon for people to experience flu-like symptoms prior to an outbreak. This can include a sore throat, swollen glands and a feeling of malaise. Chronic cold sore sufferers that notice these feelings outside of flu season or are unaware of having contact with anyone that is ill should consider this an early warning. Begin preventative treatments immediately for the best chance of avoiding an outbreak.
#2. The embarrassment of being seen with a cold sore.
There really is no way to avoid this other than hiding at home until it is gone. Since this is usually impossible it is important for sufferers to remember that they are not alone. An estimated 50 – 80 percent of all Americans are infected with HSV-1 and 90 percent of the U.S. population have the virus in their body by age 50.
#3. The reactions of other people.
This is another uncontrollable situation that requires self-confidence. The best way to manage this issue is to be educated. Understand the condition, how common it is and how it works in the body. It is a herpes virus, but not the one most people believe. Having the facts allows people to talk intelligently and honestly about a condition that should never cause shame.
#4. The long days of constant discomfort.
Cold sores do not have to be suffered in silence. There are ways to reduce the discomfort and eliminate the sore sooner. For pain, use an OTC medication to numb the skin and use ice packs to dull the heat and stinging sensation. To reduce the length of the outbreak invest in The Inhibitor. It is a handy device that is not only a preventative. It is also useful for helping to heal cold sore lesions.
#5. Not being able to kiss anyone.
Again, this is another reality that cannot be changed. Kissing a loved one is a very easy way to pass on the sore to them. Keeping some distance is the best option. However, as long as people are careful with their hygiene it is still possible to hold hands and hug.
#6. The risk of developing scars.
Cold sores that are allowed to heal on their own will rarely leave any mark behind. Help this to happen by ignoring the urge to pick at or pop the blisters. Keep crusted sores soft with a gentle lip balm (toss out after the sore has healed) and keep the skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water. This will reduce itching and help the sore to heal faster.
#7. Worrying about when the next cold sore will appear.
Be proactive about preventing cold sores. Practice stress reduction methods, avoid excessive amounts of sunlight and eat a healthy diet that includes whole milk. Purchase The Inhibitor and read all of the information that comes with the device. Women need to be particularly aware just prior to their menstrual cycle because hormonal fluctuations are known to trigger outbreaks.
Sadly, there is no way to promise anyone that they will be free from the risk of ever developing a cold sore again. That does not mean that understanding common triggers and using preventative devices and other tips are not worth the effort. Many people find long term relief when they are proactive about addressing their cold sores. It is possible to reduce the length and severity of an outbreak and, in many cases, to stop it in its tracks.
