Cold sores are pretty unsightly reminders that someone is under the weather. Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are a common viral infection usually grouped near the mouth. They’re small, fluid-filled blisters that form in and around the lips. Once the blisters break, they leave scabs for a few days, which heal and can leave no scars.
Cold sores are caused by herpes simplex virus type (HSV-1) and the less known herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Cold sores can spread quickly, especially through close contact, such as kissing and oral sex. Cold sores can also manifest in the genital area and may prove discomforting and painful to a certain point. They’re quite contagious even if the sores aren’t visible.
Doctors warn against the symptoms of cold sores, stating that the condition goes through three stages. First, people infected with cold sores experience tingling, burning sensation, and itching around the lips a day or two before the sores manifest. These sores are pretty painful and can also be hard. The blisters usually appear around the lips, cheek, and nose area, but they can also manifest inside the mouth. Once the blisters break, they ooze and crust over. Without medication, they can heal within two to three weeks.
Here are some home remedies for cold sores:
Taking Vitamin C and E Supplements
Among the things that can prevent and treat cold sores are vitamin C and E supplements, but only if the person takes them regularly. Vitamin C is a naturally occurring water-soluble vitamin commonly found in citrus and other types of vegetables and fruits. It is essential in tissue repair, collagen formation, and the enzyme production of certain neurotransmitters. Meanwhile, Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin with several forms, of which alpha-tocopherol is the main one used by the body. It acts as an antioxidant, scavenging and fighting free radicals that cause damage to the cells.
Studies have shown that Vitamin C can inactivate the herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores. While people believe that a myriad of reasons causes cold sores, research states that HSV-1 and HSV-2 are primarily the culprits. Doctors believe that increasing the intake of food rich in Vitamin C, flavonoids, and antioxidants may help treat cold sores faster. Studies have shown that the combination of such substances positively decreases the number of days for recovery.
Meanwhile, Vitamin E has been shown to combat free radicals. In addition, doctors say that food rich in Vitamin E can also soothe symptoms and speed up the healing process.
