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Home Remedies How to Prevent Cold Sores

How to Prevent Cold Sores Outbreaks


Can you really prevent cold sores outbreaks particularly when you are already infected with it? There is no research evidence that proves that the cold sores outbreak can be stopped in such cases. This is because it is not yet clear as to what really causes the outbreaks.

One catalyst that may cause the outbreak may not cause the outbreak next time. This inconsistent behavior makes it difficult to predict and prevent cold sores outbreaks.

Cold Sores Causes and Symptoms


Cold sores are painful blisters usually on the lips that are caused by the infection of Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV1). It also affects areas of nose and chin. The sores may drip fluid or remain dry.

Cold Sore is contagious in nature. Therefore, it becomes your responsibility to ensure that you are cautious about your relationships and maintain proper hygiene. If you are already infected with cold sores then be kind to your partner by informing him/her and take other precautions so that your partner doesn’t get it.

Preventing Cold Sores Outbreaks


The best prevention against cold sores is to maintain the immunity levels high. This means eat healthy food; have good night sleep and no stress. In modern day living all the above are a luxury and almost impossible to have a balance all the time.

Unfortunately if you have got infected once then you are more prone to get the outbreaks. There is no absolute cure for it. However some home remedies for cold sores do work and provide long term relief.

A diet high in Lysine and low in Arginine generally helps in preventing cold sore outbreaks in most cases. Increasing you Lysine intake by consuming mild and foods like potatoes and beans and some fish helps to increase immunization against cold sores.

In addition to this completely giving up foods that contain Arginine such as chocolates and nuts will help a lot. Add vitamin c containing fruits and vegetables to you diet to stop any cold sore outbreak.

Cold and flu have been found to be the main triggers for cold sores outbreak. Make sure that you get properly treated of these conditions in their very early stages.  Other triggers are lack of sleep and excessive exposure to the sun. Avoid hem.

Zinc also increases body’s immune mechanism. Take zinc supplements under doctor’s advice.

Though it may not be possible to prevent cold sores completely in most cases,  it certainly is possible to reduce the healing time of existing outbreaks.

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