Many people know the signs of an oncoming cold sore. The skin feels tender and appears slightly red or swollen. We all know what comes next. A painful blister that will take weeks to go away and is an embarrassing sight. Individuals who suffer from these sores want to know how to get rid of cold sores in one day. While it is not possible to do so all the time, if caught early a cold sore can be stopped before it erupts into a blister.
Cold sores are caused by the herpes virus. It is important to note that this is not the same as the virus associated with genital herpes. However, it can spread to the genital areas if direct contact is made with the sore. Cold sores are very common. They usually appear on the lips, chin, cheek, nose, or even fingers. It is possible for them to occur in the mouth, though it is usually on hard surfaces like the gums or hard palette. Usually these sores will appear in the same location for each outbreak. Once an infection has been made the virus will lie dormant for a period of time. At some point a trigger will occur, and the virus will become active.
Avoiding triggers is a great way to stop this virus before it becomes active. The most common trigger is stress and that feeling of being run-down. Utilizing coping methods for stressful situations can reduce these outbreaks. Fatigue and other illnesses can also act as a trigger. Avoiding strong exposure to sunlight can also help prevent cold sores. Sunlight and irritation from sunburn are common cold sore triggers. This is especially true if the infected area of the body is exposed. Alcohol and other specific foods can bring on an outbreak. It can help to keep a log of all the foods you have consumed if you are experiencing regular outbreaks. This will help determine the culprit. Some triggers cannot be avoided, but preventive steps can still be taken. Medicines that contain steroids can bring on an outbreak, as well as hormonal changes like menstruation and pregnancy. A compromised immune system is another cause for cold sores.
Timing is very important when it comes to treating cold sores. As soon as you feel an outbreak coming on, immediate action must be taken. Tea tree oil is a natural anti-viral. It is a great way to treat cold sores. It is very potent, and people with sensitive skin should dilute the oil with water before using it. Use a cotton swab to apply the oil to the affected area. Three applications a day is usually sufficient. Another option is L-Lysine. This can be taken daily for people who have continuous outbreaks. For those who have less frequent cold sores, L-Lysine tablets can be taken as soon as the first symptoms appear. This supplement can prevent cold sores from ever occurring, and it will dry up erupted blisters quickly. Camphor is not as strong as tea tree oil, but it will help with the pain. It also acts as a drying agent, and can help the cold sore dry up and heal. Many people have success using tea tree oil and camphor together.
Knowing how to get rid of cold sores in one day is mostly about prevention. Determining your personal triggers will help. Should an outbreak occur, catching it early is vitally important. Tea tree oil, L-Lysine, and camphor are powerful tools that can help stop a blister from appearing. There is no reason to suffer from these disturbing blisters. Take the steps to keep this virus in check!
