Cold Sore Myths and Facts: Everything You Need to Know
Cold Sore Myths and Facts
Have you ever had a cold sore? If so, what was your reaction to it? Were you scared and uncomfortable because you weren’t sure what it was at first? Were you frustrated that you didn’t know how to treat it effectively? Whatever your questions, we have the answer!
What exactly is a cold sore?
Cold sores are also known as herpes simplex virus type 1, but that name can make it out to be more serious than it actually is. Whatever you call them, they’re simply a reaction to a virus that typically shows up in the mouth. Symptoms can include a tingling, itchy, or irritable sensation that leads to blisters forming within a day. Once the blister opens, it usually takes a few days for it to scab.
While dealing with a cold sore isn’t fun, it’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Take a look at the following cold sore myths and facts to learn more about some of the misconceptions about this virus.
Common Cold Sore Myths and Facts
Myth 1: Cold sores are only transmittable when a blister is present.
Fact: While cold sores spread quicker when you have an open blister on your lips or in your mouth, the virus can be in your system and spread when there aren’t any visible symptoms.
Myth 2: Everyone who is infected with cold sores will have an outbreak.
Fact: Although many people are susceptible to carrying the virus, not everyone will develop a cold sore. Additionally, most people won’t know they have the virus until if (and when) a cold sore is formed on the surface of their skin. Therefore, keep in mind that you can unintentionally spread the virus without realizing you have it.
Myth 3: Once you get a cold sore, you’re immune for life.
Fact: In many cases, your body develops antibodies that’ll help resist a future cold sore outbreak after you’ve initially had one. Unfortunately, this doesn’t rule out getting another cold sore at a later time.
Myth 4: Cold sores appear only on your lips.
Fact: Even though cold sores are most common on the lips and mouth, they can also develop inside your cheeks and in your nose. In some rare instances, cold sores can spread to other parts of the body too.
Myth 5: Cold sores can be cured with treatment.
Fact: Since the virus remains in your body throughout your entire life, there’s no cure for the cold sore virus. Additionally, while cold sores are caused by a virus, they can also be triggered by stress, sickness, weather conditions, and a vulnerable immune system.
How to treat a cold sore?
Now that you’re aware of some common cold sore myths and facts, stock up on Quantum Health’s Lip Clear Lysine+® and Super Lysine+® topical cold sore medicine products. Our herbal treatments are formulated to help improve your lip care while also managing your cold sore symptoms, potentially cutting the time you have to deal with an outbreak in half.
