Cold sores form on the outside of the skin, usually near the mouth and are caused by the herpes simplex 1 virus which is activated in childhood. They look at first like a tiny group of white blisters that swell, itch, burst and form red sores which goes through scabbing and slowly heal. As the herpes simplex virus, it lies dormant and tends to pop out in times of stress or when the body is run down. It is not the same as "canker sores" which are bacterial infections inside the mouth. Cold sores are also called fever blisters and can last a week or two if left untreated.
Significance
Cold sores are contagious (canker sores are not). The sooner the cold sores are past the "working" phase of seepage and blistering and into the drying, dormant stage, the less infectious they become. While there is no known complete cure for cold sores, there are ways of getting through the active stage as quickly as possible and preventive ways to lessen their impact.
Features
Since the herpes simplex lies below the skin surface in the nerves, it rests until called out by stressors or illness. Fever, infection, colds, sunburn, stress, tiredness, food allergies and dental work can all bring out the difficulty. Bodily weakness as during menstruation or with changes in your immune system can also bring on an attack.
Treatment
Covering the sore with a petroleum-based product like petroleum jelly helps promote healing and prevents infection to others. (Makeup may cover it up temporarily, but the chemicals in makeup tend to keep the sore active and growing.)
Applications
Change toothbrushes so the infection is not carried on, with the virus hiding out in the bristles. Take symptomatic relief, such as aspirin or acetaminophen, which will both make you feel better and lesson your stress. Place ice on the sore to slow the sore down and numb the area.
Herbal Approaches
Licorice, which contains glycyrrhizic acid, has been linked to slowing the activation of the virus cells. Be sure it is real licorice (with "licorice mass" in the ingredients) and not just candy flavored with anise. Put some herbal juice on the sore like St. John's Wart or lemon balm. These are known as natural antiviral remedies. Another that can be used is Oregon grape. Also, drink a tea made from fresh lemon balm, which is also known as a strong anti-viral.
