A cold sore is a crusty, open sore caused by the herpes simplex virus. Cold sores are very contagious and can be spread from one person to another. In most cases, cold sores are not serious and do not require the attention of a doctor. In some cases, cold sores can spread to the eye area. If this occurs, see a doctor as soon as possible.
Change Your Toothbrush
If you are infected with the herpes simplex type 1 virus, you may notice cold sores popping up again and again. To prevent a new cold sore from forming, change your toothbrush every time a cold sore disappears, recommends the Mayo Clinic. If you brush your teeth with the same toothbrush you used while infected with a cold sore, the bacteria from the sore can get onto the brush, causing more sores to appear. Store your toothbrush out of the bathroom to prevent bacteria from collecting on the brush.
Heat and Cold
To reduce the pain and irritation of cold sores, apply a hot or cold compress. Apply a warm compress to the area, like a washcloth rinsed in warm water. A few hours later, when pain returns, place a cold compress, like an ice cube, over the cold sore to help soothe it. Continue to alternate heat and cold throughout the day. Drinking and eating cold and warm beverages may also help reduce the pain of a cold sore.
Lysine
Add 2,000 milligrams of amino acid lysine to your diet, recommends Mark A. McCune, M.D., chief of dermatology at Humana Hospital. You can purchase lysine as a supplement at health food stores and drugstores, or you can eat foods that are high in lysine, such as potatoes, dairy products and brewer's yeast. Consult a doctor before adding lysine to your diet, recommends McCune. Do not use the supplement if you are pregnant or taking any medications that may cause an interaction.
