There’s nothing worse than a red, crusty cold sore. We asked the experts at Dynamiclear about the facts and latest research.
1. What are Cold Sores and why do they appear?
Cold sores are caused by a microscopic virus which most people are exposed to at some point in their lives, they tend to appear when the body’s immune system is run down, or when there is an injury to the skin.
2. Does everyone get Cold Sores?
Cold sores are very common and most people will have to deal with them at one time or another. It is estimated that over 75% of the adult population contain antibodies to the cold sore virus. This means that 3 out of 4 adults have been exposed to the virus and may experience symptoms at some stage in their life.
3. How can you get Cold Sores?
Cold Sores are typically transmitted by direct contact between a person’s skin and the active cold sore virus.
For example, a person could pass the virus onto another person’s mouth through kissing, or by sharing a drink or cigarette while they have an active cold sore. The usual time before any symptoms begin to show is 2 to 20 days after the first contact with the virus.
4. What can be done to help prevent a cold sore attack?
There are many things you can do to help stop cold sores from reoccurring.
Healthy living. By taking better care of yourself, you can help your body defend against the cold sore virus, reducing the possibility of a recurrence. Good rest, a positive attitude, exercise and a healthy diet will assist in strengthening the immune system.
Be sun smart. Exposure to sunlight and ultraviolet rays can trigger a breakout for some people. To help protect your skin, wear a hat when you are outside in the sun and use a lip balm that contains sunscreen, preferably one with an SPF rating of 15+ or higher.
Moisturise. Damage to your lips can bring on an episode, so it is important to keep your lips protected from chapping and wind burn. A moisturising lip balm can help.
5. What precautions should you take if you have a Cold Sore?
Cold Sores can be contagious so it is important to take extra care not to spread them whenever you see or feel any symptoms.
Also,
– Don’t share food or drinks, make-up, cigarettes, or any objects that may have come into direct contact with the infected area.
– Don’t touch the cold sore. If you do, wash your hands as soon as possible.
– Don’t use saliva to clean your contact lenses.
– Be mindful of touching the eyes.
– Don’t pick the scab, if one forms, as this could cause a scar or prolong healing.
– Avoid kissing or performing oral sex.
Rescu. Road-test
We recommend Dynamiclear Rapid for a fast, quick cold sore remedy. It’s packed full of moisturising plant extracts with vitamin E to soothe and nourish the skin. The glass applicator is also convenient and mess-free.
We also like that Dynamiclear Rapid was created by Dr Spurge, a Naturopath and Iridologist.
Available nationally at pharmacies. For more info about Dynamiclear Rapid, go to www.dynamiclear-rapid.com.au.