Infection rates of herpes simplex vary, but they are always high. Although some experts estimate that 90 percent of the adult population is infected, low estimates are around 70 percent. HSV is highly contagious and infection normally occurs in childhood and transmission is typically though being kissed by infected adults. As there is no cold sore cure at present, options for dealing with the condition are preventing outbreaks from occurring and tackling the symptoms when they occur.
High levels of hygiene are important to prevent spreading the virus. Since it is a localized infection care must be taken not only to pass it on to other individuals, but also to other parts of your own body. Particular care needs to be taken with the eyes, as infection here can be particularly severe.
While cold sores are often triggered by other viral infections, outbreaks can be prevented at other times by observing a well balanced diet and avoiding prolonged stress. Regular exercise and adequate sleep can also benefit the chronic sufferer. This is due to the immune system’s role in suppressing HSV, and there steps are aimed at boosting the function of the body’s natural defenses.
When attacks do occur they typically take 7-10 days to clear up, although severe outbreaks can last longer. However, topical antiviral medications based on famciclovir or acyclovir can help, as can the many alternative treatments available.
A stated previously, there is currently no cold sore cure, although research is ongoing into this area. However, there are steps the individual can take to help prevent such frequent outbreaks and treatments that will help with the lesions when they do occur.
While many people insist on trial and error to find what works best for you, Grace Melgarejo tried all the remedies she heard of after suffering acute cold sores for seven years. She has written a book with a cold sore treatment strategy designed to rid you of cold sores in three days. It is available as an instant download, so you can start using Grace’s treatments immediately.
Click here for more on Grace’s cold sore treatment strategies
