It can activate under many circumstances, such as:
The main two are a cold (hence the name "cold sore") and stress. I think it goes without saying that aggravating the break-out area will make it much worse. I am under stress. I have the flu. In fact, at this point in time, I match half that list. I can't take cold medications, so my nose is raw. Prime conditions for a break-out.
I am having the worse break-out ever. I tried to be very careful blowing my nose, because I knew it would become raw. It did despite my efforts. The virus said, "Paaarrtay!" and the area under my nose went haywire. I look like Hitler. Seriously - if his mustache was red and icky looking. The front of my throat looks like a bullfrog's. The right side of my neck looks like Quasimodo's. I have never had it this bad.
The most common recommendation for healing them is up your Vitamin C and Zinc intake. Adding Echinacea to boost the immune system is also helpful. If you're stressed, you need to decrease your stress or try something to combat it like Yoga. Drinking a tea such as Chamomile or a tea made from fresh or freeze-dried Lemon Balm can help with relaxation. Placing the Lemon Balm tea bag on the cold sore will also help heal it.
My biggest problem right now is my nose is still running. I'm trying to avoid blowing it, because it just plain HURTS to do so. I can't always avoid it, so I keep either petroleum jelly or Vicks Baby Care on it to help with protecting and healing. Baby Care has Lavender added which also helps.
I have to keep my hands clean, so I don't pass it to the kids. That means I get to wash constantly and carry the bottle of anti-bacterial lotion with me. I normally don't touch anti-bacterial soaps and lotions, but this is one time I will.
I just pray it goes away quickly, I can't go anywhere with it. I'm trying to keep myself calm, but DH definitely isn't helping with that area.
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