by Eve Redstone

Created on: April 27, 2008   Last Updated: April 29, 2008

What is a cold sore?

The herpes simplex virus causes cold sores. Once you have caught the virus it stays with you for life, causing infection when you are stressed or after exposure to the wind and sun.

How Do I catch cold sores?

Kissing a person with active infection, or sharing eating and drinking utensils transmits the herpes simplex virus. To prevent catching cold sores observe good personal hygiene when with anyone who has them. Lipsticks and mouth preparations should never be shared, and should be disposed of after you have had an attack.

What treatments are there?

The secret to treatment is immediate action, as soon as the first tingle appears. The doctor can prescribe antiviral drugs.Famciclovir, acyclovir and valcyclovir are all licensed for this in different countries.

The drugs be started at the first sign of symptoms, ideally within an hour. Unless you carry a pack on you this is not practical. Famciclovir is the easiest to take, as a single dose, and acyclovir the most complex, at five times day. They don't always stop a cold sore appearing, but lessen the severity of an attack and shorten its duration. They reduce viral shedding, so you are less likely to pass the virus to friends and family. There is evidence that a daily dose of these medicines will prevent cold sores. This is an option that you should discuss with your doctor. These drugs do cause side effects and the incidence increases with continuous use.

Several creams are available over the counter. The best contain the antivirals listed above. Creams should be started as soon as possible after the onset of symptoms and reapplied every three hours. A lot of them cause lip dryness and cracking. Early application will stop an attack or shorten it by a day or two. Brands without antivirals are available that contain a moisturizer such as petroleum jelly, and an anesthetic. They will sooth the sore, but not cure it.

The amino acid lysine is used to treat and prevent cold sores. Studies done in the eighties showed that a dose of 1000mg three times a day will stop a cold sore outbreak. Lysine tablets may be crushed, made into paste, and smeared on the sore to accelerate healing. A daily dose of 1000mg will prevent recurrent attacks. Herbalists may add Echinacea and golden seal to this regimen. Zinc and vitamin C boost the immune system and aid healing as does applying vitamin E oil or Aloe Vera.

Lowering your intake of the amino acid arginine is advisable, it occurs in chocolate, nuts, carob and coconut.

To keep your mouth comfortable during an attack use petroleum jelly to prevent cracking.

Old wives tales abound regarding cold sores. The immediate application of ice or hot water is common. Dabbing the sore with iodine, hydrogen peroxide, perfume, aftershave, vinegar or Jack Daniels are all suggested. These are all astringents and will dry the sore up, but not cure it.

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