How To Get Rid Of Cold Sores

Where do cold sores come from?

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, come from the Type 1 herpes simplex virus, or HSV-1. Cold sores can be quite embarrassing and painful, as well. They spread from one person to another through close contact such as touching, kissing and oral sex.

This form of the herpes virus typically appears when people are stressed for one reason or another. This is because, when people are under stress, their immune systems do not function properly. Cold sores can last for several weeks, but if people treat them early enough, they can shorten their healing time. Following are a few tips to help people get rid of cold sores quickly and easily.

Keep the affected area clean.

Since the herpes virus thrives in moist, unsanitary environments, people need to keep the affected area clean and dry. This will help the sores heal quickly.

Replace toothbrushes regularly.

When people have active cold sores, the virus can often settle into their toothbrushes. It is for this reason that people should replace their toothbrushes on a regular basis. They should also use disposable bathroom cups to rinse their mouths and fresh towels each time they wipe their mouths.

Foods and supplements with antiviral properties

When people have active forms of the virus, they can try eating foods that have the amino acid, lysine such as potatoes or dairy products. They may also use supplements of lysine that conveniently come in powder or pill form. They should not, however, use this supplement if they are pregnant or if they are nursing mothers.

There are many ways that people can help get rid of cold sores

by Kimberly Thompson, Medical writer