Tips and Tricks For Curing Cold Sores

By David Paule

Cold sores are pretty common, but that doesn't make them any less uncomfortable or unattractive. However, there's no need to be upset because you have a cold sore - there are things you can do to reduce the length of time you have it. If you feel one coming on, you can even try to prevent it.

Typically, a cold sore will go away on its own in 2 to 3 weeks or so. But if you happen to have a cold sore, you would probably like it to go away a lot faster than that. If you get cold sores, you know how they have a habit of showing up at the most inopportune times. To get rid of cold sores faster, you can do a few things to help. It all begins with an understanding of how cold sores work.

You can cure cold sores. The infection cannot be treated with antibiotics; but you can treat the symptoms and make your cold sores go away faster, even prevent them.

You can prevent outbreaks even though you cannot actually get rid of the virus. Outbreaks can be healed quickly; sometimes as fast as 3 days.

There are around 90 million people who have a cold sore outbreak each year. Cold sores tend to appear on or near the mouth. There are many factors which can increase the likelihood of an outbreak, however, all of these factors have to do with a weakened immune system. Stress, lack of sleep, a poor diet and an immune system compromised by fighting off another disease (the common cold, for instance) can all lead to an outbreak.

Cold sores start with feelings of itching or tingling. Then the area will redden and swell, resulting in the eruption of the sore itself. The sore usually goes through an oozing stage, then dries up and forms a thin scab. Of course, if you bite the sore, break through it, or are prone to scratching, you could do more damage and cause it to take longer to heal.

Most people would rather not have to use prescription medications for their Cold Sores. They?re costly and in many cases are no more effective than are non-prescription remedies; and of course, they require a trip to your physician. There are some home remedies which can make a cold sore's stay a much shorter one.

Vitamin C can boost your immune system, and topical creams like aloe vera, lip balm, and salve can reduce the chance that your cold sore will dry out and split painfully. If it does, try an analgesic. To make your cold sore go away faster, consider taking L-Lysine. This substance promotes the healing of tissue and occurs naturally in the body.

You can also prevent cold sores by eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of sleep and generally staying in good health. Cold sores will tend to come up when you're tired, sick or stressed out. With a proper Cold Sore Treatment Plan, you can prevent these horrible sores.