Posts

Three Laws to Know When Working With Cold Sores

in

Cold sores are not fun for anyone and they do concern a lot of people despite the rarity of them developing into a serious health issue. Most of the time they are nothing more than an annoyance and a potentially embarrassing blemish. However, when it comes to going to work with a visible cold sore there are things people should remember.

Respect its Contagious Nature

HSV-1 is one of the most contagious diseases spread among the human population. There are wide ranging estimates that state as much as 40-80 percent of the adults in the world already have the virus in their system. However, that means there are people that have avoided the virus and want to stay away from it. Anyone with a cold sore has a responsibility to be cautious in all work settings to do what they can to not spread the condition. This means keeping their hands off their face, frequent hand washing and not sharing anything that has touched their mouth.

Avoid Those at Risk

Daycare workers, health care providers and teachers are all examples of people that come into close contact with many young people. Babies and toddlers are extremely vulnerable to the virus and it can be deadly to them. Another group that is susceptible to serious complications from HSV-1 are the elderly and people with compromised immune systems. Home caregivers and health care workers, as well as anyone working with the elderly or the ill in any capacity, should always wear a face mask when possible. Avoid work while the sores are contagious if wearing a face mask is not possible.

Get it Under Control

Reduce the potential for spreading the virus by getting cold sore outbreaks under control. Sunlight and stress are common triggers that produce more frequent outbreaks. Learning personal triggers and managing them may cut down the number of cold sores that develop. Preventative options like taking zinc and Vitamin C may help as well. The Inhibitor is a device that has been proven to shorten outbreaks and even stop the development of the sores if used when the tingling or burning sensation first begins.

No one wants to miss out on anything in their lives because of a cold sore. Work is even more concerning than social events since it is how people earn a living. This is why understanding causes and treatment options are so important. Every case is a little different, but by paying attention to when outbreaks occur and learning more about preventative measures it is possible to have a life that is not ruled by cold sores.

If you suffer from chronic cold sore outbreaks then look into buying The Inhibitor. It’s a non-invasive and prescription-free device that helps prevent cold sores from ever breaking out.

Seven Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions About Cold Sore Outbreaks

in

Cold sore outbreaks rarely happen without people having a few questions. There always seems to be something new to discover no matter how many sores people experience or how many years the problem has existed. Here are the answers to some of the most common questions people ask.

Is this a cold sore?

Yes – if by “this” you mean a spot on the skin that was initially itching, tingling or burning and then suddenly reddened and raised. Eventually, the red spot develops into a nickel-sized or smaller cluster of blisters that become more painful, rupture and crust over. All of this will take place within a few days or up to two weeks. There may be only one spot, several spots and they typically occur near the mouth but can erupt anywhere.

Can I be cured?

Not yet. Scientists are researching different methods but no cure is available at this time. It is possible to potentially stop outbreaks from occurring with the use of The Cold Sore and Viral Inhibitor. The device is also capable of healing existing sores if caught too late to stop the outbreak. However, the HSV-1 virus will still remain in the system.

Do I have herpes?

Yes, but not the type you are probably imagining. Cold sores are caused by Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) Type 1. The STD version of herpes is caused by HSV Type 2.

Will I spread the disease?

Almost certainly. It is important to be cautious about not touching cold sores or sharing drinking containers and to wash hands frequently to prevent the spread. However, the majority of the adult population already has the virus in their bodies because it is so contagious.

Is it dangerous?

Most of the time a cold sore is nothing but a nuisance. Unfortunately, there are times when it can be dangerous. If the sore becomes infected it could lead to serious health concerns. Infants and people with weakened immune systems, like the elderly or someone undergoing cancer treatment, are at risk of becoming ill from the virus.

Why am I the only one with a cold sore?

It may seem that way but you actually are a member of a very large club. There are two reasons why this may seem untrue. The first reason is because not everyone with HSV-1 experiences outbreaks. The second reason is that the people who do develop sores will often hide away when they occur. People skip work, cancel dates and generally stay out of the public eye as much as possible to avoid being seen. Many people have also discovered methods that successfully eliminate their sores quickly so they do not have to hide away too long.

Do folk remedies work?

Some people get genuine relief using methods like milk compresses or applying vanilla to the sore and some do not. There is no reason to not try any sensible method. Avoid the remedies that require pouring caustic chemicals into the lesion, popping open the blisters or lighting anything on fire. These “cures” usually lead to infections and scars.

Five Real-life Lessons About Cold Sore Outbreaks

in

Everyone has heard the dire warnings of strange illnesses caused by seemingly minor incidents. Cold sore sufferers are no different. Most have read about or been told directly of the need to be cautious during outbreaks for the fear of contracting an infection or spreading the virus. The most severe threats are rare but genuine. Here are some real-life examples of why it is important to take cold sores seriously.

Risk of Scarring

Scars are not a life or death issue but they do cause distress. No one wants a constant reminder of past outbreaks. Luckily, there are ways to avoid them and treatments that eliminate or reduce their appearance. Avoid scarring by not picking at the sore or getting medical assistance quickly if an infection is suspected. Laser cosmetic treatments and other non-invasive methods are available for scar removal.

Embarrassment of Whitlow

Herpetic Whitlow is an odd and uncomfortable condition that includes swelling, blisters and pain in the finger or toes. The skin condition is commonly known as “Whitlow finger” because this is where it is most often seen. It is caused by HSV-1 and is a good example of why it is important to not poke and prod cold sore blisters. Approximately 2 percent of the population worldwide experiences this problem each year.

Frustration of Symptoms

In a documented medical case a 65-year-old woman repeatedly visited her doctor complaining of an unbearable burning sensation in her mouth that would go away for a while and return for no discernable reason. Test after test revealed nothing. The stumped medical professionals included her primary care physician, a dentist and an oral surgeon. Finally, it was discovered that the woman had HSV-1. Her doctor tested her saliva and despite having no lesions throughout this ordeal it was revealed that extremely high levels of the virus were in her mouth. She was given an antiviral medication to reduce the problem and eliminate the pain.

Fear of Infection

Infected cold sores are not only a concern because of the potential for scarring. In some rare cases, it has led to death or near-death experiences. An encephalitis diagnosis on a 59-year-old man involved in a vehicle accident revealed why the man blacked out and flipped his truck. The infection was determined to have come from the cold sore virus. The man has since recovered suffering now from only some memory-related issues. However, it was months of experiencing extreme fatigue and flu-like symptoms before he felt healthy again.

Anguish of Loss

The most concerning reality are the dangers of exposing the virus to infants. In one incident a premature baby received a kiss from his loving father and died weeks later of multiple organ failures. The cause of the death was the HSV-1 virus. His delicate body was unable to withstand the infection. In another case, a very healthy twelve-day-old British girl also died in a similar manner. Her case began with a little fussiness and cold-like symptoms a day before.

The most severe incidents are unusual but they happen. The fact that the risk is there means that cold sore sufferers must be careful to avoid harming themselves or others. Knowing how to reduce the risk by staying healthy and eating right are both vital steps, as is owning and using a device like “The Inhibitor” to prevent cold sore outbreaks and the worries that come with them.

Five Cliches About Cold Sore Outbreaks to Avoid

in

Everyone has plenty of advice and comments when cold sore develops. People that experience them regularly will have heard the same advice and thoughts repeatedly over the years. Most of the remarks are spoken in kindness and others are simply a matter of misinformation. However, there are beliefs and common cliches that do nothing to help and may even hinder the healing process. Here are the top statements to avoid in favor of reserving your efforts for something more helpful.

#1. That is what happens when you get a fever.

Cold sores are not caused by a fever. This belief led to the nickname, fever blisters. However, a weakened immune system may lead to the development of a cold sore. This is why they do sometimes appear during cold and flu season. There is the chance that a random fever may actually be caused by a developing cold sore and not the opposite. People vulnerable to random outbreaks should consider a fever and tender lymph nodes as a red flag to an impending cold sore appearance and should act early to prevent it from happening.

#2. So, you have herpes?

This is an offensive comment to many people because it usually suggests that the cold sore sufferer is an STD carrier. Yes, cold sores are caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus. However, it is Type 1 and not Type 2. Clear up the confusion whenever possible but do not waste time worrying about the “herpes’ label. They may not realize it but statistically, the people making these comments are more likely than not to also be infected with HSV-1.

#3. I kissed someone with a cold sore. How soon before I get one?

The virus that causes cold sores is very contagious and can spread through a simple kiss, but it is not like a cold virus. It is not caught and healed and then recaught another time. Once someone has the virus it will remain in their system for life. This is why most people will contract the disease during childhood and often through a kiss from a well-meaning adult relative. Most people with the virus will never have a single cold sore. Kissing someone will not necessarily make one appear. It is also just as likely to contract the virus and get a cold sore from someone that is infected but has no visible lesion at the time of the kiss. Stop worrying about where it was contracted and focus on preventing outbreaks instead.

#4. Stay away from salt.

That bit of advice should actually read, “stay away from salty foods”. Commercially salted foods like chips and pretzels have coarse salt on the surface that irritates cold sores and may make them red and swollen and encourage people to touch or rub at the lesion more frequently. This could further aggravate the problem. The point to remember is that salt (on its own) is and a natural disinfectant that may help to reduce some inflammation. A swish with warm salt water once or twice a day may help to help relieve the discomfort and cleanse the area.

#5. Take some lysine.

There is evidence that lysine helps to reduce the duration of cold sores and may prevent future outbreaks. The problem with popping a lysine supplement regularly is that is could lead to abdominal pain, kidney stones and regularity issues. Milk is a natural source of lysine and is a much more natural and safe way to boost the level in the body. Upping your intake of whole milk to a glass or two a day and using milk compresses when a cold sore is beginning or already developed is just as effective as a supplement but without the side effects.

The one cliche to always follow is when people say to treat the cold sore at the very first sign of development. This usually means a tingling, burning sensation somewhere around the mouth. The Inhibitor is an easy way to accomplish this task. It is a small, handheld device that is battery operated and produces a mild charge that disrupts the growth of the sore. It is useful for developing and existing lesions as well as other blemishes. In-between uses it stores easily in a handbag, backpack or cupboard.

Seven Reasons Not to Invest In Cold Sore Outbreaks

in

That familiar tingling, burning sensation has begun. When chronic cold sore sufferers notice this feeling many will instantly head to the drug store to purchase the products to cover up the impending sore and eliminate some of the discomfort. They will schedule an appointment with their doctor or make a trip to the natural foods store for some essential oils. In the end, they will have spent money and time on healing a sore that still took a week or longer to finally fade away. It is time to stop this behavior.

  • Doctors cannot offer a cure.
  • Doctors cannot prescribe something that will stop any future outbreaks.
  • Prescription medications only heal the sore a day or two sooner.
  • OTC medications are a weaker version of prescription solutions.
  • Products designed to hide the sore rarely work.
  • Some essential oils or homeopathic cures may aggravate the skin.
  • Lysine supplements are unnecessary because lysine is already in whole milk.

Continuing to waste time and money only adds to the frustration people experience in the middle of another outbreak. It is time to forget folk remedies and to stop redoing everything that did not work last time. Here, in four simple steps, is how to work on eliminating the problem effectively.

1. Get healthy. Find ways to reduce stress, eat a healthy diet and drink more milk.

2. Use sunblock. There are proven links between excessive sun exposure and cold sore development.

3. Boost your immune system. Get plenty of sleep, take a multivitamin and avoid cigarettes and alcohol.

4. Buy The Inhibitor. It is an affordable device that works painlessly to stop cold sore development and heal cold sores quickly. (Bonus buy – it also treats other skin blemishes too.)

The majority of people will discover that these four steps will do more than what the seven previous investments could not. Cold sores are not curable and the virus that causes them will never leave the body. However, that does not mean that people have to resign themselves to suffering from the sores repeatedly. A dedicated effort and the right solution may make it possible to be someone that is free from the annoyance of another a cold sore.

5 Unbelievable Facts About Cold Sores

in

There is so much to know about cold sores. It makes sense that an almost endless amount of information regarding the virus exists since the infection is experienced by nearly 4 billion people worldwide. Most chronic sufferers understand the misery of an outbreak and the basic details of the virus that causes them. However, they may not know some of these surprising facts about cold sores.

There is a potential connection between cold sores and another unusual syndrome.

Burning mouth syndrome is an uncomfortable condition where the inside of the mouth is sensitive and sore and feels like the skin has suffered a sunburn. Medical professionals often struggle to treat the condition or to provide patients with any relief. One recent medical case discovered that after numerous unsuccessful treatments one patient complaining of this issue was discovered to have numerous HSV-1 particles in her saliva despite not having a single sore. Once she received cold sore treatments the burning sensation faded away.

Research shows a link between HSV-1 and memory loss.

A small medical study revealed that people with higher levels of infection in their system were less successful than others on cognition tests. HSV-1 was one of the three infections included in the study. While the study is not enough to conclusively state that cold sores will lead to memory loss, the experts performing the study feel the results were impressive enough to encourage further testing. Many feel that learning the relationship between infections and memory could help to create more effective treatments for issues like dementia and Alzheimer’s Disease.

The lips are not the only place cold sores target.

Some people never get the sores on their lips. Instead they appear around their nose, on their eyes and on the cheeks. Having something as simple as a facial during an outbreak can easily spread the sores across the face.

Cold sores are sometimes deadly for infants.

Cold sores are usually uncomfortable and annoying, but not dangerous. This is not always the case for infants. Any infant that shows any signs of a cold sore infection including fever, lack of appetite and any rash or blisters should be seen by a doctor immediately. Anyone with an active cold sore infection should stay away infants until they are not longer contagious.

Your lip balm could be to blame.

Repeated outbreaks may not be from a weakened immune system, but from reinfection. A common source of infection is lip balm and lipstick. Throw away these tubes along with toothbrushes or any makeup brushes that come into contact with cold sores.This is also why no one should ever share makeup or lip balm with anyone.

11 Common Cold Sore Misconceptions

in

Effective cold sore management relies on understanding the difference between common myths and the truth about the virus. People are better able to make sensible choices when they know everything about the cause, behavior and treatment methods relating to cold sores. Here is the truth about 11 common myths that anyone managing chronic outbreaks should know.

Myth #1 – Cold sores are a sign of an STD.

This is probably one of the most destructive cold sore myths because it causes unwarranted embarrassment and shame. Cold sores are caused by a herpes virus (HSV-1) but it is not the same as genital herpes (HSV-2). The sores may look similar and spread in the same manner but that is the extent of the similarities.

Myth #2 – Cold sores are never dangerous.

Most outbreaks arrive and heal without any complications but this does not mean they are never dangerous. Infants and toddlers and anyone with a weak immune system are at risk to complications that could include infections, blindness and even death. The severest complications are rare but do exist. This is why people in the middle of an active outbreak need to be cautious about hygiene and personal contact with others.

Myth #3 – Cold sores only appear when people are sick.

Despite being called “cold” sores or “fever” blisters, they do not need someone to be ill to develop. Some people will experience flu-like symptoms prior to an outbreak and others may be more prone to cold sores appearing when they are ill because their immune system is weak. However, a lesion can also appear without any other symptom.

Myth #4 – New cold sores only appear when someone is reinfected.

There is no such thing as a “reinfection” of HSV-1. It is not like a cold or flu virus that is contagious and runs its course. Once it is in a body it remains forever.

Myth #5 – Doctors can cure cold sores.

Prescription medications reduce discomfort and shorten the lifespan of the cold sore. They will not prevent future outbreaks and they do not cure a current blister.

Myth #6 – It is only a cold sore if it is on the lip.

Cold sores can develop anywhere on the face or body. They can even appear on the genitals. This does not mean they are then considered an STD. The fluid in a cold sore is contagious. A new lesion may form if it is touched and the fluid accidently spread to other parts of the skin.

Myth #7 – People will not get cold sores if they practice good hygiene.

Hygiene practices have very little to do with the development of cold sore lesions. Hand washing can help to prevent the spread of the virus but cold sores can develop once the virus is in the body regardless of how careful people are about their cleanliness.

Myth #8 – People that never get a cold sore are not infected with the virus.

Only about 30 percent of the population infected with HSV-1 ever develop a cold sore. The majority of these people will only experience outbreaks sporadically.

Myth #9 – Cold sores and canker sores are the same.

Canker sores and cold sores look similar, are both painful and occur near the mouth but they are not the same. A canker sore is related to either a lip or gum injury or a reaction to something that was consumed. It is not contagious and will typically go away within a day or two without any additional care.

Myth #10 – Cold sores are only spread by kissing.

People can develop cold sores without ever getting a kiss. They can be passed to someone through a handshake, by sharing cosmetics or utensils and through many other non-intimate types of contact.

Myth #11 – If a blister opens it will immediately cause new sores.

The fluid in a cold sore blister does contain the virus and can cause the spread of the lesions. However, the blisters will often open and drain on their own as the sore ages. Washing the area regularly and keeping hands away from it as it drains will greatly reduce the risk of it spreading. Opening the blister to drain the liquid in the hope that it will disappear faster is risky because it can lead to scarring and an infection.

Seven Things Everyone Hates About Cold Sore Outbreaks

in

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.

Seven Unexpected Facts About Cold Sores

in


Long term cold sore sufferers know everything there is to know about the embarrassment, discomfort and frustration of dealing with an outbreak. That does not mean that they actually know everything about the virus, what it is capable of and its lengthy history. It is not necessary to know all of these things to manage chronic cold sores, but it never hurts to have all the facts.

#1. It is an ancient problem.

The Greek physician Hippocrates passed away nearly 2,400 years ago. He was the first person known to document the misery of cold sores. Little was understood about the lesions at that time. Herpes is a Greek word meaning “to creep or crawl” and it was chosen by Greek scholars to describe the contagious sores.

#2. Cold sores can spread to any part of the body.

Anyone with an active cold sore should be aware that they can cause their partners to develop a lesion on any spot of skin they allow to come in contact with the sore.

#3. Cosmetic procedures may lead to massive outbreaks.

Many people have heard the warning about cold sores and chemical peels. They may not realize that this warning should also include cosmetic injections, microdermabrasion and laser resurfacing. Any treatment that disturbs the skin could lead to an outbreak. This is why cold sore sufferers should always use a plastic surgeon or dermatologist for cosmetic treatments and should discuss their previous outbreaks with their doctor prior to any procedure.

#4. Flu-like symptoms often accompany a pending outbreak.

The familiar tingling pain on the lip that cold sore sufferers recognize as a sore developing is not the only potential warning signal. Flu-like symptoms like a sore throat, swollen glands or fever may also be present. These symptoms will often disappear after the sore develops.

#5. An emergency doctor visit may be necessary.

Resolving most outbreaks may require nothing more than the use of “The Inhibitor” or an anesthetic cream. Unfortunately, some lesions become infected and require an antibiotic to treat. The fluid in cold sores is normally thin and watery. If it thickens it means bacteria is present. A fever with pain or redness in the eye during an outbreak should also be taken seriously.

#6. There are pregnancy risks.

Cold sores often appear more frequently in women suffering from hormonal fluctuations. This is why women that occasionally suffer a cold sore may suddenly see them consistently popping up during their pregnancy. This is not an issue to ignore. HSV-1 has been identified as a cause of an increased risk of premature labor and miscarriages and may affect prenatal growth. The risk is small but worrisome enough that it must be discussed with an obstetrician.

#7. They go by many names.

Cold sores are frequently referred to as fever blisters. They are known to doctors as Herpes Labialis, Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 or the abbreviated version, HSV-1. Many sufferers also have a few profane names of their own that they use for the annoying blemishes. One name that is not used, or should not be, is canker sore. Many people mistakenly confuse canker sores and cold sores. These two lesions are entirely different with unique causes and treatments.

If you get cold sore outbreaks consider getting The Inhibitor, an effective device that helps prevent cold sores from breaking out.

9 Things Your Lover Wishes You Knew About Cold Sore Outbreaks

in

When casually dating it is easy to cancel when an cold sore appears, but it is not something to ignore once a relationship becomes exclusive. Explaining how you are a chronic cold sore sufferer is definitely something people dislike sharing with anyone. Even if the subject is mentioned the discussion many lack some information because of the embarrassment of the sufferer. For those dating someone with chronic cold sores who is hesitant to discuss the issue – here is the information they want you to know.

1.You probably already have the virus, but not necessarily from them.

HSV-1 is so common it is believed that anywhere from 60 to 90 percent of the adult population is infected. Most people catch the virus during childhood when kissed by a relative with the virus or while playing with a friend that has a cold sore.

2. It is contagious and a form of herpes, but it is not an STD.

Cold sores are passed to others through saliva and not through sexual contact. It is possible to spread the virus to other areas of the body, and oral to genital transmission is possible. However, it is still not an STD regardless of where the sores appear.

3. Catching the virus does not mean you will ever have a cold sore.

The reason why the statistics vary so greatly on HSV-1 infection is because of the number of people that have the virus in their body, but never experience any cold sores. Doctors will not necessarily test for the illness automatically other than during pregnancy.

4. Someone that has more outbreaks is not “sicker” than those that do not.

The virus is not stronger, more contagious or more dangerous in people who have frequent outbreaks. Medical experts still struggle to know why some people never experience outbreaks and others have constant problems. However, all of the research shows that the problem is different from one person to the next. People that catch the virus from someone that has never had a cold sore will not necessarily be as lucky.

5. During an outbreak physical affection may need to be limited.

HVS-1 can pass to others at any time, but the highest risk is during an outbreak. Avoiding contact with a cold sore may mean that kissing, and other forms of affection, have to be put on hold until the blemish goes away.

6. Sharing is great, sometimes.

It is a good idea to not share lip balm, drink containers and utensils during an outbreak. Avoid even pillows and scarves, mobile phones and anything else that come into close contact with the face during this period of time.

7. Good health matters a lot.

Preventing outbreaks means avoiding excessive stress, keeping the immune system strong and avoiding excessive amounts of the sun. While everyone will benefit from using sunblock, getting exercise and eating well, it is important to encourage cold sore sufferers to stay committed to these steps even more.

8. HSV-1 sounds scary, but it is rarely dangerous.

Very few people have serious problems with the virus that causes cold sores, but it can happen. Weakened immune systems due to illness or disease can lead to severe outbreaks. Rubbing the eyes after touching a blister could transmit the sore and lead to vision concerns. People with an active outbreak should stay away from babies and toddlers and anyone who knows they have the virus should be careful about kissing young children at any time.

9. Cold sore outbreaks are miserable, so be kind.

Cold sores burn, sting and ache. They may make it hard to eat or drink. People sometimes lose sleep. The embarrassment makes people hesitant to go to work or to social events. Please be patient and kind.