Cold Sore Outbreak

Cold Sore outbreak? Find relief at last.

A cold sore outbreak is very common. In fact, in excess of 80 to 90 percent of adults have probably been exposed to the virus that causes cold sores. The herpes simplex virus is usually dormant inside the body until it is triggered by certain factors, usually related to the body's lowered natural immunity.

However only ten percent of those infected with the herpes simplex virus will actually develop cold sores. When you first contract the virus, a cold sore outbreak will appear about two to twenty days thereafter. Not everybody has symptoms and may never have a cold sore outbreak, despite being infected by the virus.

Even if you do have the virus in your body, your immune system might be able to keep it in check indefinitely. Others will experience a cold sore outbreak each time they become ill, go in the sun or become tired or stressed. Some people might have attacks as often as once every few weeks. The subsequent infections are often much milder than the first infection.

If you have a severe cold sore outbreak you can use a drug like acyclovir HCl. This may help the sores to heal faster. Left untreated a cold sore attack can take from seven to ten days to heal. The side-effects of this drug may include headache, nausea and diarrhea. You can also apply a cream directly to the skin but these are not as effective as drugs taken by mouth.

A cold sore outbreak will start with an itching, burning or tingling sensation on the lips, gums and mouth. This is followed by small red bumps that burst and release a clear, yellowish serum. This fluid dries to a yellowish crust which eventually falls off to reveal new skin. Small blisters may unite to form one large cold sore.

A cold sore outbreak is very contagious and you must take steps to avoid infecting others and other areas of your own body. During an attack of cold sores you should avoid kissing and oral sex as well as touching your own genitals, eyes or nose. After applying a cold sore treatment always wash your hands well in warm, soapy water. Avoid sharing lipstick, drinking and eating utensils and wash cloths.

So be sure to check out our pages about How To Get Rid Of Cold Sores, Cold Sore Treatment, Cold Sore Remedies, Cold Sore Relief, and Cold Sore Symptoms elsewhere on this site.