Fever blisters or cold sores typically appear with a cold. They are small, red, fluid-filled blisters that appear around the lips, nose and the outer mouth. Fever blisters are caused by the herpes simplex virus 1 and 2. Although they appear after a cold, flu or some kind of stress, they are a reactivation of an existing virus, rather than a fresh attack.
Although there is no cure, there are many ways in which you can get relief. First we will speak about prevention:- Don't kiss someone with cold sores
- Do not engage in any sexual activity with someone who has genital herpes
- Don't touch other parts of your body immediately after touching the sores. Wash your hands every time you touch the sores.
- Do not share your cup, fork, razor and other personal items with anyone else
- Replace your toothbrush after a fever blister attack
- Do not share towels or other garments with someone who has cold sores
- Keep away from direct sunlight or wear a sunscreen of minimum SPF 20
And here is a list of home remedies to ameliorate the pain:
- Apply a warm teabag to the area for about 20 minutes or so every day
- Make a tea of sage leaves and ginger and drink it 2-3 times a day
- Apply ice to the area for five minutes every hour or so
- Take probiotics such as acidophilus
- Apply aloe gel or juice on the sores
- Apply a paste made with corn flour
- Take a B complex supplement containing B12 and folic acid
- Apply some petroleum jelly to the area.
The primary thing to do is to boost your immune system and this can only be done by getting a healthy balanced diet and exercise. Read an article on how to boost immunity.
answered by S E