Healing Cold Sores

Healing cold sores can be done in a variety of ways, depending upon your personal preferences, and there are many treatments available to do this. No matter which method you start with, it is important to continue trying different methods until you find ones that are effective and work in your specific case. There are herbs that can be taken to help boost your immune system, which will help your body beat the virus and prevent an outbreak. These include goldenseal, echinacea, red clover, and others that can be taken as a daily supplement for the most benefits. Zinc is another supplement that is beneficial to anyone who suffers from cold sores, and between twenty five and fifty milligrams of zinc a day will greatly reduce the risks of an outbreak occurring.

Healing cold sores usually involves drying up the blisters so that healing can begin. This step is crucial to healing the blisters up completely, and eliminating the pain and tenderness in the area of the outbreak. It is important to keep the area broken out in blisters clean and as dry as possible. Secondary infections can be caused by bacteria once the blisters rupture, so it is important to keep the area clean so no bacteria can cause an infection. Many creams sold over the counter can be helpful in protecting the area and drying it up, while soothing any pain or burning. These creams will not speed up the healing process, but they can make the suffering more bearable and soothe the area.

Healing cold sores also includes changing your diet, lifestyle, and stress levels. Stress weakens your immune system and triggers outbreaks, so you should reduce your stress as much as possible to help your body fight off the virus and avoid the painful outbreaks. Foods that are high in sugars or acid are also common triggers, so changing your diet can help to avoid or heal cold sores caused by these common triggers. Drinking plenty of water will also help your body recover from this virus, and at least sixty four ounces of water a day should be consumed. Alcohol should be avoided completely, because this is a very common trigger of cold sore outbreaks, because alcohol dehydrates you and causes your immune system to weaken.