Herpes simplex virus can exist in many forms.
Type-1 is responsible for causing Fever blisters.
This virus infects at an early age.
It then travels along the nervous system towards the ganglia.
Here, it lies in an inactive state before it is reactivated by some factors.
The virus can not be flushed from the body.
It remains permanently in an infected body.
During an active infection, blisters are seen.
The blisters turn to dry slab.
They then disappear for a while.
However, the blisters tend to recur.
The first step to preventing cold sores is simple.
Keep away from them.
Avoid kissing people with fever blisters.
Having oral sex with them should not even cross your mind.
If you are infected with the virus, try all you can to boost your immune system.
The virus is easily reactivated when the immune system is low.
If the triggering factors are kept in check, preventing cold sores becomes easy.
Illness, tiredness and stress are among the triggering factors.
This is because they lower the immune system.
Relax as much as you can.
Avoid wearing make up.
The chemicals that most cosmetics contain can severely irritate the blisters.
An antiviral cream may be applied on the blisters.
It is better to use cotton buds during the application.
Cotton buds should be disposed off correctly.
If you are going to use your hands, wash your hands with soap and water.
Sharing of personal items should be avoided.
This is an important step in preventing cold sores.
Towels, napkins and lipsticks should not be shared.
Lastly, read something that will make you laugh.
At least it will keep your spirit high.