Cold Sore Triggers: 5 Things to Watch Out For

Cold sores are unpleasant, unwanted, and painful blisters caused by certain strains of the herpes simplex virus (HSV). Coming into contact with someone who is carrying the virus can cause infection. Kissing someone, sharing a drink, or using common towels or razors can transmit the virus. While cold sores are most contagious during the oozing and crusting phase, the virus can be passed along at any time from the first tingle through the end of the healing process. Nearly everyone has HSV in their system. Some people who are infected may never see an outbreak, others may experience only one episode, and others get cold sores that come back again and again by experiencing their cold sore triggers.

There are many causes, and they may vary between different people.  Most cold sore triggers are tied to a weakened immune system.  Some common cold sore causes include a viral infection or fever, hormonal changes, injury to the skin or dental work, stress and fatigue, and exposure to the sun, wind, or cold.  Pay attention to what is going on in your life when suffering from a cold sore outbreak. Identifying your cold sore triggers can help keep these pesky blisters at bay.

Viral Infection or Fever

When your immune system is working on fighting off an infection or fever, it becomes less able to suppress the virus.  Be prepared for the cold and flu season and try to keep your body healthy.  Get a flu shot, wash your hands often, and avoid feeling worn down by giving your body plenty of time to rest.  

Hormonal Changes

Hormones rise and fall during the menstrual cycle, and some women frequently experience cold sores at certain points in their cycle. This happens most often during your period or just before it begins. Pregnancy can also trigger outbreaks. Track your menstrual cycle so you can be aware of when an outbreak is most likely to occur. Do your best to get plenty of rest and reduce stress during this time of your cycle.

Injury to the Skin or Dental Work

Pressure or injury to the mouth or lips can result in a cold sore.  For some, feeling stressed about going to the dentist makes things even worse. Talk to your dentist if you suffer from cold sores and be sure to cancel your appointment if you have an active blister. Apply a cool compress to your lips after any injury to the area or visit to the dentist.

Stress and Fatigue

Ever get a cold sore before a big test or presentation at work? You are not alone. Our immune systems get run down when we are dealing with mental stress or not getting enough rest. When the immune system suffers, it is more difficult to fight off viruses such as HSV. Relax and reduce your stress by getting more exercise, meditating, performing breathing exercises, reading, or spending time outdoors.

Rest is also important! Be sure to keep your energy high by getting to bed early, creating a relaxing sleeping environment, avoiding screens after 8 p.m., and eating healthy foods that promote sleep such as beans, vegetables, and lean proteins.  

Exposure to the Sun, Wind, or Cold

When your lips dry out, they become more susceptible to cold sore blisters. This can be from sunburn or too much time in the cold or wind. Try to keep your lips moist and use lip sunscreen. Drink plenty of water, protect your face from the elements, and stay indoors if possible when the weather is too extreme.

Other Cold Sore Triggers

Depending on who you talk to, you may hear dozens of theories as to what triggers cold sores. There is some evidence that certain foods, particularly those that contain large amounts of arginine, cause cold sores. Allergies are also frequently blamed as cold sore triggers. No matter which causes pertain to you, paying attention to your body and pinpointing your most common triggers can help you to keep cold sores at bay.

Cold Sore Treatment

Unfortunately, no matter how careful you are, cold sores will likely still form. When you do get a cold sore, quick treatment is the key to quick healing. Many turn to creams, pills, or injections, some of which require prescriptions and many of which do not provide desired results.

Luminance RED is a cutting edge treatment for cold sores that uses newly available LED technology. This device can help speed up healing time and decrease the frequency of cold sore outbreaks by providing low-intensity laser therapy to rapidly heal your sores and strengthen your cells against future outbreaks. The Luminance RED also eases pain associated with cold sores and treats canker sores. Luminance RED is easy to use, easy to clean, and comes with a 100% money back guarantee. Keep your body healthy, pay attention to triggers, and give Luminance RED a try to help your body to heal cold sores more quickly and stop them from coming back.