subject: Effective Treatments for Cold Sores [print this page] Effective Treatments for Cold Sores
Cold sores, sometimes known as fever blisters, are caused by the Herpes Virus. Cold sores are a result of Herpes Simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), which though related to Herpes Simplex II, the Sexually Transmitted Infection, is different. The cold sore virus can last in the body for anywhere up to three weeks at a time but live permanently in a dormant state in the body for carriers.
The virus can be triggered by a host of things including, stress, lowered immune system response, exposure to sun or wind, sickness, menstruation and even high levels of the amino acid Arginine. The sores are highly contagious and research has shown that between thirty and sixty percent of children already are carrying the virus by age ten.
There are a number of different prescription treatments that can help with cold sores once they have already arrived, although as usual, these are most effective when caught at the beginning. Both pills and creams are available, as well as a variety of over the counter aids, which though won't kill the virus can relieve the symptoms of discomfort.
The best remedy against cold sores however is to prevent an outbreak either by protecting yourself from infection if you don't have the virus already, or by keeping your immune system strong and avoiding triggers if you are already a carrier.
Some of the best herbs and vitamins for fighting off a cold sore attack include, L-Lysine, Vitamin B complex, Zinc lozenges, Garlic, Vitamin C, Acidophilus, Calcium and Magnesium and Vitamins E and A. There are a variety of supplements that combine some of these ingredients and can be crucial in preventing an outbreak.
Taking a supplement with some or all of these ingredients is therefore often your best bet against an outbreak. Some are to be taken for up to a few months in order to boost immunity. Echinacea is also great if you feel yourself getting run down and feel a little in danger of having a breakout.
Keeping up a healthy diet and lifestyle is the most fundamental component to fighting cold sore outbreaks. Eating well and taking good supplements
can help prevent the worst infections, viruses and bacteria from gaining a foothold in your system.
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