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5 Unbelievable Facts About Cold Sores

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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.

The 5 Signs People Need Help With Their Cold Sores

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Type 1 Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV-1) may sound frightening but this contagious viral disease is better known as the virus that causes cold sores. This type of the virus is not considered an STD and it is incredibly common. The majority of people that carry the virus do not even realize they have it because they never develop cold sores. Others experience only a mild cold sore outbreak every few years. A percentage of people, for unknown reasons, have severe and frequent outbreaks. The appearance of a cold sore is not necessarily a sign that a doctor appointment is needed, but there are some signs that indicate additional help is necessary.

#1 – During the first outbreak.

Other skin problems can mimic the look of a cold sore. If someone has never had one before it is not uncommon for them to be unaware of what to expect. A diagnosis will determine if it is a cold sore. If so, the sufferer needs to be cautious to prevent spreading the disease to others. This is especially important for anyone that is frequently in close contact with infants because it can be life-threatening for anyone a few months old, or younger.

#2 – If outbreaks are frequent.

Take action when there are consistent outbreaks and outbreaks that include multiple sores at the same time. Investing in a tool like The Inhibitor is sensible because studies show that it helps to treat existing sores faster than any other method and it often prevents sores from developing when they are caught early.

#3 – If the immune system is compromised.

A weakened immune system puts the body more at risk for severe outbreaks and infection. Talk to a doctor about nutrition and skin care techniques to reduce the chance of additional outbreaks and watch the sores closely for any signs of infection.

#4 – If they spread to other areas of the face or body.

The fluid inside the cold sore blister contains the contagion that spreads the disease to others. It may also cause sores to appear on other parts of the body. The most serious is around the eye. This could lead to vision damage if not treated properly. Avoid touching cold sores and, if they are touched, wash the hands thoroughly before touching any other part of the skin. Herpetic Whitlow occurs when there is a cut on the finger and it becomes infected from touching the sore.

#5 – When a cold sore becomes infected.

Cold sores are caused by a virus and cannot be treated with antibiotics. This does not mean they will not also develop a bacterial infection. It could be infected if the skin around the sore is red, warm and swollen or if the sore seems unusually painful. Cold sore treatments, even prescription medication, will not cure an infection.

Cold sores are so common it is easy to underestimate how uncomfortable they can be. In rare cases, if the condition is left untreated it could lead to a potentially deadly brain infection known as encephalitis. Even sores that are only mild to moderate in severity are problematic because they are embarrassing and unattractive. Anyone with this condition should take the concern seriously and learn more about identifying potential problems and halting the outbreak.

9 Surprising Fever Blister Facts Many People Do Not Know

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Fever blisters or cold sores are a common problem that everyone has seen at some point in their life. It is an annoying and unsightly cluster of blisters that is usually seen on or around the lips. Most people think they know all about these annoying blemishes, but there are many facts that may surprise them.

1. They are not caused by a fever or an illness.

They do not only appear when people are sick despite being commonly known as fever blisters or cold sores. They arrive more frequently during cold and flu season because a damaged immune system is not able to fight them off as easily as a healthy system.

2. They are very contagious.

Fever blisters are highly contagious unlike traditional blisters or a pimple. Something as simple as handling a towel previously used by someone with a cold sore could lead to contracting HSV-1, the virus responsible for the lesions.

3. Fever blisters and canker sores are unrelated.

The two lesions are completely different even though they often occur in the same area, look similar and feel similar. Canker sores only appear inside the mouth and are usually related to diet or an injury to the mouth. They are also not contagious.

4. Cold sores can spread to other parts of the body.

It is possible for a cold sore to appear on the face or anywhere on the body. Touching the sore and then another part of the skin could lead to this uncomfortable condition.

5. It is one of the most common infectious viruses in the world.

An estimated 4 billion people under the age of 50 currently test positive for HSV-1 around the world.

6. Cosmetic procedures like chemical peels could cause cold sore outbreaks.

Some cosmetic procedures can cause an outbreak even if the skin appears clear at the time of the treatment. Discuss the issue prior to the appointment with a doctor so they can prescribe an anti-viral medication as a precaution to reduce the risk.

7. Fever blisters can be deadly.

Most people will suffer no severe side effects from fever blisters. They can become life-threatening to infants, people with weakened immune systems and when an infected cold sore is ignored.

8. Medical treatments are not cures.

Doctors provide their patients with medication that will numb the pain and dry out the fluid faster. It only eliminates the sore a day or two earlier than it would go away on its own and it will not prevent future outbreaks.

9. It is possible to prevent some fever blisters from forming.

Fever blisters announce their impending arrival with a small tingle or burning sensation. During this period of time, it is possible to stop the blister from developing. Milk, ice and tea bag compresses may help. Reduce stress, stay out of the sun and eat a healthy diet. Purchase and use “The Inhibitor”. This is a device that uses a small electric charge to stop the blister in its tracks.

Think You’re Cut Out For Fixing Your Fever Blisters?
Take This Quiz

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Whether they are called fever blisters or cold sores anyone that has ever experienced one understands the discomfort and embarrassment that goes hand-in-hand with these unpleasant blemishes. The misery of them is easy to understand, but managing them is a little more difficult. Take this short quiz to see if you are ready to control your next potential outbreak.

True or False

  1. Fever blisters are not a concern if you avoid catching the flu or a cold.
  2. Kissing someone with a fever blister is the only way to catch one.
  3. Fever blisters can spread to any part of the body.
  4. Prescription medications cure cold sores.
  5. There are ways to prevent an outbreak.

Answers

  1. False.
    Despite being referred to as “fever blisters”, it is not necessary to have a fever or be ill to have an outbreak occur. The blemishes do appear more frequently when people are sick due to their weakened immune system, but avoiding illness will not guarantee a lesion-free face.
  2. False.
    Direct, skin-on-skin contact is the easiest transmission method, but not the only one. HSV-1 is a very contagious virus and it is passed through hand shaking, sharing drinking glasses and many other methods of indirect contact.
  3. True.
    It is very important to not touch a fever blister and to be certain to wash your hands thoroughly if you do. The fluid in the blisters contains the virus and if it is spread to other parts of the skin it is possible for another sore to develop at that location.
  4. False.
    Prescription medications help to relieve the discomfort of a cold sore and reduce the length of the outbreak by a few days. There is no cure for the virus and no way to become immune to future outbreaks.
  5. True.
    Preventing an outbreak is possible, but not guaranteed. Some individuals are able to control outbreaks by adding more milk to their diet because the l-lysine reduces the risk. Applying ice to the skin when the first tingle is felt may also prevent the sore from appearing. The Cold Sore Inhibitor, a device that uses a low voltage zap of electricity, has helped many to avoid outbreaks.

What Not to do if a Cold Sore Breaks Out

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A cold sore outbreak requires a calm and measured approach to healing the sore effectively. Stress is a known cause of outbreaks, so panicking will only make things worse. There are ways to shorten the length and severity of an outbreak and to prevent any scarring of the skin. Here are several examples of what not to do if properly managing the blemish from the start is the goal.

Share With Others
This is one time when sharing is a bad idea. Never share cosmetics, hand towels or facecloths with someone else during an outbreak. It is, of course, never a good idea to share a toothbrush or allow someone to drink from the same bottle or use the same silverware. During an outbreak, this is even less advisable. Mothers with small children need to remember this and use a separate spoon or fork when temperature testing their child’s food.

Neglect Good Hygiene
Keep the skin around the sore clean without scrubbing the sore directly. Wash hands frequently during the day. This does not only apply to when using the restroom or before meals. Cold sore sufferers need to become chronic hand-washers during a breakout to prevent any spread of the lesions to others or on their own skin. Absentmindedly touching the sore and then shaking hands or grasping a doorknob could be enough to pass on the virus.

Eat Spicy Food
Spicy foods can both cause an outbreak and make an existing sore worse. Spicy food can irritate sores and causes discomfort and increased redness and swelling. It is advisable to avoid all of these foods during the entire outbreak (from the initial tingle as it develops) and to restrict consumption of them the remainder of the time.

Get a Tan
The sunshine will not “dry out” the sore faster or help to camouflage it. Exposure to the sun is another common cold sore trigger. Too many UV rays are believed to slow down the immune system and allow the body to be susceptible to problems like cold sores. Spending 10-15 minutes a day in the sun helps to boost moods and provide Vitamin D. More than that could lead to skin damage.

Attack the Sore
Popping the blisters, pouring alcohol or other drying agents over the blemish and picking at the scabs could cause infection and scarring. In almost every case it will result in a swollen, red and angry looking sore that will take longer to become unnoticeable. Instead, use cold compresses, eat healthily and use The Inhibitor to shrink the blemish faster. OTC medications to numb the pain can also help to keep hands away from the sore.

Knowing what not to do is often more important than any other tip. It is the best way to avoid lengthening an outbreak, causing new sores to appear or sharing the misery with someone else. Avoiding sunlight, stress and spicy foods at the first tingle may help to prevent the development of the sore, and The Inhibitor is also useful in these early stages as well.

Seven Unexpected Facts About Cold Sores

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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.

24 Hours to Improving Fever Blisters

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An important business meeting is coming up, a wedding is only days away or an interview for a dream job is scheduled to begin in 24 hours. What happens? A cold sore develops, of course. Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, do not need people to be sick to arrive. They thrive when stress levels increase and that, unfortunately, tends to be when a big event is planned. No one feels confident when they are sporting a sore on their face. That is why acting fast to eliminate the blemish before the big day is important. Luckily, it is possible to eliminate a cold sore in a few hours or block one from developing at all.

Step One: Buy Some Supplies

Purchase some genuine vanilla, some tea tree oil and a gallon of whole milk. Order The Inhibitor in advance. This device works for a variety of skin blemishes in addition to cold sores, so it is a handy appliance to keep in the home.

Step Two: Prepare the Body

Practice some stress relieving techniques like meditation or Yoga. Stay out of the sun because sun exposure encourages cold sore development and growth. Increase the consumption of whole milk, berries and foods rich in Vitamin C and E. Eat foods rich in zinc like red meat and oysters and avoid spicy foods. Use The Inhibitor every two or three hours on the spot where the sore is developing or on the actual lesion.

Step Three: Treat the Area

Continue to use The Inhibitor as directed. Alternate applying ice packs and cold milk compresses every couple of hours for sessions lasting about 10-15 minutes each. Between compresses add a few drops of tea tree oil or vanilla directly to the spot. Avoid applying vinegar, alcohol and other drying agents on lesions. These products can cause discomfort and will cause the skin to scab, become too dry and begin itching. Essential oils and vanilla are more comfortable and heal the skin without causing scarring or discomfort.

The worry is over if the cold sore is prevented from developing. Launder all hand towels and replace toothbrushes if the cold sore has developed before the effort begins. Doing this will help to prevent additional outbreaks. Devoting a day to treating a fever blister may seem overzealous, but it is the only way to eradicate the problem quickly.

9 Things Your Lover Wishes You Knew About Cold Sore Outbreaks

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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.

Understand Cold Sores Better Before There are Regrets

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Maybe it started in childhood following a severe cold or later in life during a period of stress. The first cold sore often comes as a surprise, is miserable for a few days and gradually heals. These events are uncomplicated and manageable. It becomes a problem when suddenly they appear more often. They interrupt date night, become an embarrassment before a big meeting or just never seem to entirely disappear. This is when it is important to become educated about the reality of cold sores and how those that suffer from them can learn to protect themselves and prepare for the next outbreak.

Realize cold sores are contagious and can spread.

One of the most important facts people need to remember is how easy it is to spread cold sores. This includes spreading them to others and causing new outbreaks from one lesion. Avoid sharing towels, utensils or personal care items with anyone during an outbreak. Hand washing is more important than ever and do not touch any other part of the skin after touching a cold sore.

Cold sores are very dangerous to the young.

Anyone with an active cold sore should refrain from kissing infants. Always wash hands thoroughly before holding an infant. Babies are very susceptible to cold sore infections and the virus can spread through their systems rapidly. The infection can spread to the brain, the eyes and other organs and potentially cause permanent damage. There have been cases of infants dying from the infection.

Cold sore “cures” can lead to scarring.

Be cautious of the advice offered for curing a cold sore. Popping the blisters and applying a caustic material in an attempt to dry up the liquid faster could cause infection and scarring. Do not pick at the blisters or the scabs after they begin to heal. Ice packs, milk compresses and a thin layer of aloe vera can safely soothe and relieve the discomfort of a cold sore. These remedies and prescription and OTC medications may also help the sore to heal faster.

Infection is possible with cold sores.

Get medical help if the skin is red and warm beyond the lesion or if there is more pain than expected. Infection is possible and if it is not addressed quickly it could lead to serious health concerns, like any untreated infection. An antibiotic will help to heal the infection but it will not treat the cold sore.

It is possible to stop some cold sores from forming.

Chronic cold sore sufferers should not expect to never experience a cold sore again. A complete and total cure has not yet been discovered. That does not mean that people cannot find ways to stop the majority of their outbreaks and shorten the lifespan of cold sores that do emerge. Drink more whole milk, add Vitamin C to the diet and avoid acidic and spicy foods. Practice stress management techniques and wear sunblock. Purchase a device known as “The Inhibitor“. It is useful for a variety of skin blemishes and is safe to use on existing cold sores and areas where a sore seems to be forming.

Five Real-Life Lessons About Cold Sore Outbreaks

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Cold sores are painful, embarrassing and frustrating but they are usually nothing more than a temporary complication. Understanding more about why they happen and what may stop them is the only way to manage a chronic condition. Nearly everyone has the virus that causes the blemishes but only a minority of that group actually experiences regular outbreaks. Here are some valuable lessons for those unfortunate souls as well as the occasional sufferers.

Cold sores are not actually out to get certain people.

It will seem that way. First date? Cold sore. Important business meeting? Cold sore. Getting married? Cold sore. Every important moment can seem marred by the appearance of the stinging blisters. So, while it may seem as if this is a plague sent by an angry God – it is not. Think about what all of these types of events have in common. It is stress. One of the most common cold sore triggers is stress. Learning to identify triggers like this can help to avoid future outbreaks.

There is nothing wrong with people that get cold sores or with their hygiene.

Perfectly normal, healthy and clean people still get cold sores. This is more important for the people that never get the lesions to remember more than the actual sufferers. Cold sores are something that anyone is at risk of getting and it is really just a lottery pick about who actually does. Unfortunately, the prize in this lottery is a weeping sore and not a lifetime of soup.

They did not kiss the wrong person.

People love to use this as a way to shame people for their “naughty” behavior when a cold sore appears. No, they did not lock lips with the wrong person. Okay, they probably did at some point in their lives, but that is totally unrelated to the cold sore. The majority of people actually catch the virus in early childhood. So, maybe they did get it through a kiss from their mom and it is always right to let your mom give you a kiss.

Doctors help but there may be a better solution.

Prescription medications numb the pain and shave a couple days off the life of the cold sore. Some preventative treatments that are available without a prescription may stop the lesion from forming at all. The Inhibitor is a device that uses a small electrical charge to interrupt blemish growth and it has been an effective tool for many long term sufferers. In addition, balancing the diet, reducing stress and cutting sun exposure may also reduce the frequency of outbreaks.

Cold sores are contagious and people need to be cautious around infants during an outbreak.

Cold sores are contagious to everyone but babies are the most likely to become seriously ill from the virus. Holding the child (with clean hands only) is acceptable. Giving them a peck on the cheek is not. This same guideline is also true with people that do not have a healthy immune system.