1. When Herpes Strikes
Cold sores are uncomfortable and unsightly. They're actually caused by a herpes virus that lives in the body's nerves. It's resistant to the body's internal immune system, so it never goes away. A cold sore appears, typically somewhere around the mouth, when the virus is exposed to damp, hot conditions. Stress also can bring on the herpes simplex manifestations. The cold sore is related to the sexually transmitted herpes virus, but they are two different strains. They can often be treated with anti-viral medications or topical antibiotic creams. Sometimes, people just wait out the cold sore until it disappears on its own.
2. On Pins and Needles
Many people are turning to acupuncture for relief when they get a cold sore. The ancient healing method uses tiny needles to stem the flow of energy from specific points on your body. The acupuncturist finds the source of your stress or of the physical imbalance that's causing the cold sore and gently inserts needles into that spot. She may turn the needles to stimulate or deaden the nerves. Acupuncture needles do not hurt when inserted. You barely know they are there.
3. Hit a Nerve
While no one can prove that acupuncture works, there are too many people who are living proof of its efficacy to ignore the results. Researchers believe that the needles, when properly inserted, cause the body to release endorphins, which can reduce pain and stress. Once the body is more relaxed, the needles may also release natural cortisol, an anti-inflammatory substance. The two react with the nerve energy to heal many problems, including cold sores.
4. Not Just an Alternative
While you will most likely find an acupuncturist among other alternative medicine practitioners and Eastern healers, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the United States does regulate the use of acupuncture needles. Most other alternative medicines receive no such regulatory oversight. The FDA ruled that the needles must be manufactured for single use and follow all the sterilization procedures that exist for any medical needles. They are classified with surgical instruments and hypodermic needles.
5. Safe to Use
You should look for an acupuncturist who has practiced for along time and comes with good referrals. There are typically very few risks associated with the practice; infections from poorly sterilized needles are the biggest risk. Only use an acupuncturist who disposes of used needles.
