Cold sores, also called fever blisters, are painful sores that crop up on or around the lip or nasal area. Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus. The first infection may have the symptoms of swollen glands, a general feeling of being unwell and painful mouth ulcers, most of the world's population carries the virus whether they ever have an outbreak or not. Cold sores typically last for two weeks, and sometimes spread before the healing process begins. It is believed that approximately 80% of Americans have the cold sore virus. Discover some of the latest Cold Sore Treatment tips you can use immediately. Go to Cold sores or fever blisters.

The first thing you have to understand is the steps that a cold sore go through. Basically you have the initial stage where you feel a tingling sensation but don't see any sort all. This will typically last for a few days and then you'll actually see the sore. Eventually the sore will crack open and start oozing. This is the most contagious part of the outbreak. There is a very high chance that it will spread and create new sores. It is very important to keep clean at this time so you don't spread it.

Prevention is not really about the best thing you can do. Since this is a virus it has to be fought by your immune system. You end up with an outbreak when your immune system is weak. That is what creates the favorable conditions to spread. That means if you recently had a cold or you've been stressed out you're going to have a weak immune system. The best thing you can do is live at healthy lifestyle because that is the best way to keep your immune system strong.

Taking vitamin A and vitamin C can also help you to cure your cold sores. Get rid of your sores by eating health food. You should prevent yourself from having a breakout. Eating yogurt will help you to minimize your chance of spreading your sores.

Each serving of these food products will raise your arginine levels. Tree nuts and field-grown nuts. Most common grains such as wheat and oats give you more arginine than lysine. Seeds also contribute to cold sore outbreaks with high arginine levels - including sunflower and flax. Vegetables, such as cabbage, radishes, potatoes and beans also encourage cold sores. Chocolate is extremely rich in arginine.

The best cold sore treatment is cleanliness. Cold sores have one specific purpose; spreading. This is a viral problem, so the best thing you can do is prevent the spreading. Keep the sore clean and dry. Try and wash your hands on a regular basis. Also don't poke it with your finger or tongue because you're just aggravating it.

Reducing your arginine supplies by increasing lysine intake is a trick many folks use to stop herpes virus activity and support quick healing. It can also prevent future cold sore events by starving the herpes virus of the fuel it needs.

Large selections of very good cold sore treatment options are available. Most drug store over-the-counter cold sore remedies are primarily comfort treatments and will do little to heal or prevent cold sores.