According to the Center for Young Women's Health, nearly 90 percent of Americans have the herpes simplex 1 virus (HSV-1)--the virus that causes the common cold sore. Once you get infected, via kissing or casual contact, you may experience the occasional blister when stressed, fatigued or overexposed to the sun. These mouth sores begin as a tingle before growing into a painful sore that can last an average of two weeks.
Avoid Contact with Infected Individuals
For most people, HSV-1 lies dormant, not erupting until periods of stress, fever or extreme climate changes. However, if you are with anyone who complains of tingling lips or exhibits any signs of cold sores, you should disengage in sharing eating utensils, towels, drinks or food. Also, do not kiss or exchange casual contact with the individual. Although you may already have the virus, you might not want to risk an additional breakout.
Avoid Triggers
Cold sores are more prevalent for people with lower immune systems. Stress, sleeplessness, illness, colds and fevers can heighten the chances of an outbreak. Additionally, long periods in the sun without proper lip balm, and even menstruation can trigger cold sore development. Although some of these causes may be difficult, even impossible to prevent, you can always apply sunblock, wash your hands and get enough sleep to reduce your risks.
Consume Foods High in Lysine
Chicken breast, turkey meat and most fish, which are high in the amino acid, lysine, have been shown in some studies to stop the outbreak of cold sores, according to research at the University of Maryland Medical Center. In order to be effective, lysine must be part of a regular dietary routine. While not every study has supported the claim, it still should be worth your effort to make lysine part of your daily diet, especially since most forms of lysine are readily available.
Allow Your Cold Sores to Heal
Most drugstores carry non-prescription pain relievers, including lip ointments, which help to reduce the pain of blistering. When a cold sore appears, the Mayo Clinic warns that you should not attempt to pop, pick or squeeze it as this will slow down the healing process and may result in scarring. Furthermore, the application of cold and hot presses of ice and a warm cloth may temporarily relieve discomfort. Once cold sores heal, which generally takes two weeks, continue maintaining good health and using lip balms to prevent re-occurrence.
