Cindy's Health Tips:

Cold Sores
Health Tip #11, 7 November1996


What are cold sores?
Cold sores, or herpes simplex, are eruptions of very small, painful blisters usually found on the lips or around the mouth. They are caused by the herpes virus type 1. The virus can stay inactive for months or years before active inflammation erupts. Cold sores may last about 7-10 days. Canker sores last for about 1-2 weeks.

How do I get this virus?
The herpes virus type 1 is transmitted by person-to-person contact or by contact with saliva, stools, urine or discharge from an infected eye. The blisters and sores of herpes complex are contagious until they heal.

What are some causes of active inflammation?
Attacks may be set off by certain factors such as sunlight, allergies, fatigue, or physical or emotional stress. For women, another high risk time is the time around and during menstrual periods.

What can I do to prevent cold sores?

  • Avoid physical contact with other who have active lesions.
  • Wash your hands often during a flare-up to avoid spreading the virus.
  • Avoid factors that tend to set off reactions. In other words, maintain healthy nutrition, get enough rest, etc.

    What do I do to treat my cold sore?

  • Avoid spicy and acidic foods
  • Apply ice to relieve the pain
  • Apply prescription antiviral medication in ointment or tablet form



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