Do you know what causes cold sores? If you do, you'll be in a better position to prevent them from forming at all. Another name for cold sores is fever blisters, and they're caused by something known as herpes simplex virus type 1.
Then there's type 2, which leads to genital herpes. Both type 2 and type 1 are bad because they can easily spread the virus to other parts of your body, such as the genital area.
The one that causes cold sores, herpes simplex virus type 1, is highly contagious. You can easily spread the virus through physical contact, and even through indirect contact.
You can get the virus just by sharing a drinking glass with someone who is already infected, an example of indirect contact.
This virus never really goes away once you get it. It just lies dormant within your cells, waiting to be stirred by some trigger.
Since each person is unique, cold sores don't affect everyone in quite the same way. What triggers cold sores in you may not trigger it in someone else. It's a very good idea to recognize what triggers cold sores in you so that you can keep the virus under wraps.
Some of the most common triggers of cold sore outbreaks include: overexposure to the sun, wind, and cold; stress; illness; certain foods; and sharing personal hygiene items.
To avoid some of these circumstances you can stay out of the sun for long periods of time. You can also learn how to effectively deal with stress and learn to relax.
To give your immune system a boost, try taking a vitamin C supplement. Avoid eating foods that contain arginine.
If your spouse gets cold sores, don't share personal items such as towels, toothbrushes, drinking glasses, or lip balm. If you get cold sores, change out your toothbrush as soon as you recover from one. That toothbrush is probably harboring the virus and it could re-awaken the virus.
When you think about what causes cold sores, you should be aware of what triggers your outbreaks. That way you will be able to reduce the frequency of your outbreaks and the severity of them.
Once you know how to avoid the things that trigger your cold sores, you will be able to control how this virus affects your life.
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