5 Cold Sore Causes and Remedies
Cold sores appear in small clusters of highly contagious, fluid-filled blisters around the mouth and under the nose, which eventually burst and become dry scabs. They are often referred to as fever blisters. The exact cause of cold sores is herpes simplex virus 1, which spreads via skin to skin contact (i.e., sharing straws, eating utensils, or kissing). Once infected by the herpes simplex virus, it remains dormant in the body, and may cause another cold sore when triggered by factors like fever, stress, hormones, skin injury, and exposure to wind or sunlight. There is no proven cure for cold sores, but there are several ways to manage them. Below are some of the best cold sore relief products that have been used to reduce the severity of cold sores: 1. Abreva cream This cream shortens the healing time of cold sores. It reduces the duration of tingling, itching, burning, and pain. A cold sore can be healed by Abreva cream in 4-5 days. Normally the sore can take 8-10 days if left untreated. The cream forms a layer to protect the skin cells from the virus. However, it is important to read the instructions on the label before using the cream.