A Guide To Avoiding Cold Sores

Young woman covering her mouth. Cation: What's triggering your cold sore flare-ups?

FEVER BLISTERS OR COLD SORES are small groupings of blisters that occur around the mouth. These might heal in a few days or in a few weeks.

Here at Dental Partners of Boston, we know how frustrating cold sores can be. So here are a few tips for avoiding them.

Common Triggers For Cold Sores

Certain medications can make cold sores go away faster, but the best way to be rid of them is to prevent them in the first place. Not everyone’s cold sore triggers are the same. That’s why it’s important to review a bit when you get a cold sore and see if you can troubleshoot. Here are some cold sore triggers to consider.

Stress

Stress can mess with our bodies in many ways, including wearing down our immune systems. If our immune system is low, it is easier to develop cold sores.

You can counteract this by having healthy stress-coping techniques. Build up your immunity by eating well and exercising. And give yourself time to relax and decompress after a stressful day or week.

Fatigue

Just like stress, being tired can drain your immune system. Having low defenses can lead to a dormant cold sore becoming active. Getting enough sleep can keep the cold sores away and boost your immune system.

Dry Lips

Dry lips can be caused by several factors, including the sun and cold weather. Protecting your lips from the weather can keep cold sores from developing. Whether it is wearing a scarf when it is cold or applying lip balm with sunscreen in it, protecting your lips will help prevent cold sores.

Keep Track Of When And Why You Get Cold Sores

The next time you get a cold sore, pay attention to things that may have been a trigger, whether it is your health or the weather outside. Being aware of your triggers can help you avoid future cold sore outbreaks.

If you have any questions, contact us! As your lifelong oral health partner, we care about your whole body’s health.

Thank you for being our valued patients and friends. We appreciate you!

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