What Causes Cold Sores? I Am Sick and Tired of Them
Do you know what causes cold sores? If you do, you'll be in a better position to prevent them from forming at all. Another name for cold sores is fever blisters, and they're caused by something known as herpes simplex virus type 1.
Genital herpes is caused by type 2. Type 1 and type 2 can both spread the virus to any other part of the body, and that includes the genitals.
But let's focus on the first, herpes simplex virus type 1: This is what causes cold sores, and it is very contagious. You can spread this virus through physical and indirect contact.
For example, an infected person can give you cold sores if you drink from the same glass they're using.
The bad news is that one you've contracted the virus, it never goes away. It sleeps, laying dormant in your body's cells until something triggers it.
Whatever causes cold sores for you may not work the same for somebody else, because all people are unique. To prevent the virus from awakening and becoming active, you need to understand what your unique triggers are.
There are many common triggers to outbreaks of cold sores. Some of them include certain foods, sharing toothbrushes or other personal items, too much exposure to sun and wind or cold, stress, and illness.
If sunlight is one of your triggers, you can try staying out of the sun for an extended period each day. If it's stress, learn how to get a handle on stress and find ways to relax.
You could also strengthen your immune system by getting enough rest and taking a supplement of vitamin C. You can also eat less foods that contain arginine.
Don't share any of your toothbrushes, towels, lip balm, or cups with your spouse if they are prone to getting cold sore. You should also change out your toothbrush once you've recovered from a cold sore because the virus could be inhabiting the toothbrush right now-- waiting to trigger another outbreak.
Think about what causes cold sores and always be aware of what triggers your own cold sore outbreaks. Once you know the patterns, you'll be able to reduce both the severity and frequency of your outbreaks.
Once you know how to treat your cold sores and what triggers them, you will finally be in control of your life instead of being at the virus' mercy all the time.