Prevent cold sore

Cold sores can be very annoying, embarrassing, and socially incapacitating .It affects millions of adults here in the U.S. and around the world. If you have suffered from these painful sores then you know about them all to well. Cold sores are infections that can occur around or in the mouth. Also referred to herpes simplex, there are 2 strains known as type 1 and type 2. Cold sores are most often caused by type 1 or HSV-1. Type 2 or HSV-2 is most often related to genital herpes where blisters form in the genital area. The biggest key to cold sore prevention is building up your immunity. Doctors agree that when your body's immunity system is low, cold sores can easily form. A strong immunity system means a lower risk of any outbreak.

There are some practical things you can do to protect yourself from contacting the cold sore virus, or at least keep cold sores from recurring if you already have them. Here are some tips:

Reduce your stress:

The best prevention is to keep your stress level down as much as possible. Be conscious of the stress in your everyday life. Don't allow yourself to get into stressful situations if at all possible . So always get enough sleep and eat a balance diet. Engage in activities that let you get a physical workout, and avoid stressing about little things.

Safe sex:

The best prevention for herpes simplex type 2 is for you to wear a latex condom if you are the male or insist your partner wears one if you are the female. Using condoms is rated as the top method to prevent the transmission of herpes simplex infection. Though condoms effectively prevent spreading of HSV and other sexually transmit diseases. The best way is still to either not engage in sexual activities at all, or at least defer engaging in sexual activities until your cold sore heals. Also, avoid kissing anyone who has one!

Wear sunscreen:

Wear sunscreen when spending time outside. Even if it's cloudy, UV levels can still be a major issue in bringing on a cold sore.

Lip balms:

Make sure to use a strong SPF sunscreen lip balm when outdoors. Studies show that using lip balm helps prevent facial infection. There are also specialty lip balms designed to prevent dryness, prevent triggers and inhibit viral replication in people who have already suffered from cold sores. These lip balms claim to dramatically reduce recurrence. Make sure to use a strong SPF sunscreen lip balm when outdoors.

Hygiene:

All infected objects must be washed in hot water; boiling water is the most protective. Stay away from the personal belongings of a person who has cold sores. Do not share utensils, towels, clothes, and other items with an infected person. Also be sure to wash your hands regularly either with soap or cleansing hand gels. About five to eight times per day is enough. Wash more often if you accidentally touch the affected area. Replace your toothbrush when you feel the tingling sensation at the outbreak of an attack

Overall fitness:

A strong immunity system means a lower risk of any outbreak. So always get enough sleep and eat a balance diet. Eat healthy meals, more vitamin C to your diet and other immune-boosting vitamins. Whether you eat more fruits containing vitamin C or take a vitamin supplement, increased levels of vitamin C can help build up your body's immunity system. Several studies suggest that the dietary supplement lysine may reduce cold sore outbreaks . The optimal dose is not known, but side effects seem rare. Aloe Vera is a very effective remedy for many skin ailments. It will help to reduce the pain and irritation of cold sores.

As part of a preventive program for people who get cold sores frequently it is a good idea to boost your immune system. Try taking the herbs echinacea and goldenseal to boost immune system.