How Are Cold Sores Contracted?
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Who Suffers From Cold Sores?
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In the May 2007 edition of Better Nutrition, Karta Khalsa reports that "60 percent of all Americans have cold sores at some point in their lives and 25 percent experience recurrent outbreaks." Once a person has their first cold sore it is almost inevitable that more will follow. Cold sore sufferers need to be keenly aware of how these uncomfortable little blisters are contracted to avoid outbreaks. Understanding the ways these sores are contracted is also important for those who do not currently suffer from the disease and want to avoid contraction.
The Cold Sore Virus
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Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex 1 virus (HSV1), which is a sibling to the herpes simplex 2 (HSV2), which is responsible for causing genital herpes. Both of these infections are relatives of the chicken pox virus. The initial contraction of the cold sore usually occurs in childhood and may even go unnoticed, lying dormant for several years. Once infected, the person may have recurrences at any time throughout his life. These recurrences can last from 6 to 10 days varying in degree of severity. There is an increased occurrence of these sores in the winter months. The July/August 2003 edition of Primary Health Care reports that the "breakouts can decrease as the person ages."
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Cold Sore Triggers
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Recurrence of the cold sore virus can be caused by psychological, emotional, physical or health stresses. Environmental triggers such as too much wind or sun exposure can also cause cold sores to appear. Women who are menstruating are also at risk. The July/August 2003 edition of Primary Health Care reports that "patients that suffer from atopic eczema, take corticosteroids or have compromised immune systems such as patients that are undergoing cytotoxic chemotherapy are at very high risk of getting a more serious cold sore infection." Also, undergoing dental procedures, suffering from a fever or contracting a cold or flu can be triggers for outbreaks.
Final Thoughts
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Dealing with cold sores is a very common and painful problem. As a result, it is important to be knowledgeable about the triggers that cause the outbreaks. Eating right and exercising can help to keep immune systems at premium levels, thus reducing the possibility of outbreaks. Talking with a physician if you are a patient who might be at higher risk is also important. Armed with knowledge of the triggers and ways to prevent the virus from occurring can make a big difference in the number of outbreaks that someone suffers.
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References
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