March 10th, 2012 
Sores on Lip A cold sore is alternatively known has Herpes Simplex or fever blisters and the virus responsible is the Herpes Simplex virus (HSV1). It is usually not the same type as the one that causes genital Herpes. A cold sore is a fluid-filled blister which will later ulcerate and then crusting occurs, forming a scab. If left untreated this should heal in about 8-10 days.
The lesions caused are usually recurrent. Herpes blisters are often mistaken for canker sores which are present in the mouth but not contagious. It can usually be found on a person’s face, most commonly the mouth and membrane areas where the skin tissue is very soft such as the nose, the chin, and the nostrils.
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It can easily be passed on from one person to another through skin contact even during the Prodromal symptoms stage when there is a tingling or itching sensation on the skin. Infecting others can also occur during Herpes Viral Shedding whether it is with or without visible symptoms. If a person becomes infected, the incubation period is about 2-12 days. The primary outbreak for most people usually occurs at a very young age and remains in a latent state until it is activated.
Outbreaks highly depend on the immune system of the person. To date, there is currently no cure for Herpes but those with very strong immune system who have been exposed to the virus can suppress the outbreak and in some cases the virus ‘disappears’ after a few years.
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Causes of cold sore outbreaks include high stress levels, a generally weak immune system, menstruation and hormonal changes, some forms of birth control, for example the morning after pill. It is also caused by skin irritation, exposure to high temperatures and strong sunlight, injury and some foods such as gelatin, peanuts, cereals, etc. as well as alcohol.
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Cold sores can be treated both naturally and by the use of clinical medication. Those who prefer home remedies can consider using ice over the sores. Mud masks also works great because it helps to dry up the area. Lip balm or Petroleum jelly can also be applied using cotton swabs which should be used carefully and with plenty of caution to avoid breaking the blisters which will eventually result in scabbing. Additionally, rubbing alcohol and diluted tea tree oil aids in soothing the skin right before an outbreak. Other natural products contain antiviral properties, such as Manuka honey and black tea as it contains tannins (alternatively tannic acid when using warm tea bags).
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For those who prefer doses of modern-day medicines, Penciclovir, Acyclovir, Famciclovir, Valtrex, Abreva, Zovirax and Dynamiclear are well-known in the treatment and relief of cold sores. They effectively reduce the spread of blisters, and also assist in quick healing. A Herpes outbreak usually accompanies other symptoms such as fever. If fever accompanied with a lot of pain is present, it is important to treat it separately, with more common analgesic medications such as aspirin and acetaminophen. Ibuprofen is also a recommended painkiller.
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It is important to choose to live a healthy lifestyle to prevent or dramatically reduce the recurrence of a cold sore outbreak. Moisturize as often as possible; ensure that foods with plenty of vitamins such as B, C with bioflavonoid, E, as well as zinc, and plenty of calcium are consumed. Natural herbs such as Echinacea and goldenseal can be used to successfully boost your immune system. Foods high in Lysine which is an amino acid effectively combats the occurrence of an outbreak. Integrate gelatin-free yoghurt that consists of live-cultures into the diet. Most importantly, avoid stress!
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